The Arigato Sour cocktail is a modern classic with roots in Japanese culture and the art of mixology. It artfully combines the characteristics of Japanese whisky, known for its craftsmanship, with the zesty brightness of fresh lemon juice.
While the origins of this cocktail are not as storied as some classics, it embodies the creativity of contemporary mixologists.
The name “Arigato” is a Japanese word that means “thank you,” and this cocktail is indeed a delightful way to express gratitude for the art of Japanese whisky. The Arigato Sour is known for its balance of sweet, smoky, and citrusy flavors, making it a delightful choice for those who appreciate a well-crafted drink.
Arigato Sour Ingredients
The allure of the Arigato Sour cocktail lies in the careful selection of essential ingredients. To create the perfect Arigato Sour cocktail, you’ll need the following components:
- 2 oz (60 ml) Japanese Whisky: Japanese whisky serves as the heart of the cocktail, providing smoky, woody, and sometimes fruity notes.
- 3/4 oz (22.5 ml) Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds a zesty and citrusy brightness to the drink.
- 3/4 oz (22.5 ml) Simple Syrup: Simple syrup is used to provide sweetness and balance to the cocktail.
- Ice Cubes: Ice is essential for chilling and diluting the cocktail.
- Egg White (Optional): An egg white can be added for a silky texture and foam, creating a traditional sour cocktail element.
Arigato Sour Recipe
Now, let’s walk through the process of crafting the perfect Arigato Sour cocktail:
Step 1: Start with a clean and chilled coupe glass.
Step 2: In the glass, optionally add an egg white for a traditional sour cocktail element. If used, dry shake the egg white (shake without ice) in a cocktail shaker for about 10 seconds until frothy.
Step 3: In the same glass, fill it with ice cubes to your desired level.
Step 4: In a separate mixing glass or cocktail shaker, combine 2 oz (60 ml) of Japanese whisky, 3/4 oz (22.5 ml) of fresh lemon juice, and 3/4 oz (22.5 ml) of simple syrup.
Step 5: Add ice to the mixing glass or shaker to chill the mixture.
Step 6: Seal the shaker or mixing glass and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring the ingredients are well-mixed and the cocktail is properly chilled.
Step 7: Strain the cocktail from the shaker or mixing glass into glass with ice. If you used an egg white, the foam should form on top.
Step 8: Optionally, garnish the drink with a lemon twist or a maraschino cherry.
Step 9: Sip and savor the well-balanced and refreshing combination of Japanese whisky, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup in your perfectly made Arigato Sour cocktail.
Arigato Sour – Smokey Goodness
If you’re not typically a fan of whiskey, the Arigato Sour is the ideal cocktail to try. This refreshing drink leans towards the lightness and botanical notes reminiscent of gin cocktails, allowing the supplementary ingredients to take center stage rather than playing a supporting role to the whiskey.
It showcases whiskey’s versatility, as the sweeter components provide a delightful contrast and allow the whiskey’s character to shine without overpowering the palate.
