Originating in the mid-19th century, the Whiskey Sour first appeared in the 1862 “Jerry Thomas Bartenders Guide.” It’s not only a significant American cocktail invention but also a timeless favorite that has inspired various adaptations, including the popular New York Sour.
The New York Sour adds a twist to the classic Whiskey Sour (whiskey, lemon, sugar, egg white) by introducing a float of dry red wine, which enhances the drink with its aromatic and visual appeal.
Tracing back to the 1870s or 1880s, it was initially known by different names, like the Continental Sour, and it’s believed that it might have originated in Chicago before being famously associated with New York.
This diverse group represents some of the most classic cocktails.
New York Sour Ingredients
- 2 oz (60 ml) Whiskey: Whiskey is the heart of the New York Sour, typically made with bourbon, rye, or other types of whiskey.
- 3/4 oz (22 ml) Simple Syrup: Simple syrup, created from equal parts sugar and water, provides the necessary sweetness to balance the cocktail.
- 3/4 oz (22 ml) Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice offers the cocktail’s bright and citrusy element.
- 1/2 oz (15 ml) Red Wine: Red wine, usually a full-bodied varietal like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, is gently floated on top of the cocktail.
- Ice Cubes: Ice is essential for chilling the cocktail.
New York Sour Guide
Step 1: Begin with a clean, chilled rocks glass or an old-fashioned glass.
Step 2: Fill the glass with ice cubes to prepare it for the cocktail.
Step 3: In a cocktail shaker, combine 60 ml (2 oz) of whiskey, 22 ml (3/4 oz) of simple syrup, and 22 ml (3/4 oz) of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Step 4: Add ice to the shaker for chilling the mixture.
Step 5: Seal the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to ensure the ingredients are thoroughly mixed and chilled.
Step 6: Strain the shaker’s contents over the ice in the glass, filling it to the top.
Step 7: Carefully pour 15 ml (1/2 oz) of red wine over the back of a spoon or slowly drizzle it onto the cocktail’s surface to create the signature “float” on top of the cocktail.
Step 8: Optionally, add a garnish to the drink, which will be explained in the following section.
Step 9: Enjoy the distinctive whiskey and red wine combination in your expertly prepared New York Sour.
Whether you enjoy it as a classic delight or choose to explore its variations, crafting the perfect New York Sour is an art that any cocktail enthusiast can appreciate.
It’s a drink that transports you to the heart of classic cocktail culture, inviting you to savor the harmonious blend of whiskey and red wine—a taste of sophistication that’s always in style.
