Some cocktails come and go with the seasons. The whiskey sour isn’t one of them. This drink has stood the test of time. It’s been around since the 1800s and still earns a spot on bar menus and home bar carts for a reason (which we will get to in a bit!).
What do we love the most? It’s deceptively simple. No complicated prep. No long list of ingredients. Just a few quality components, and you’ve got a cocktail that’s timeless and effortlessly elevated.
Read along to find out our favorite way to make whiskey sour, tips for getting it just right, and why Green River Bourbon is always our first pick to make the perfect whiskey sour.
What Makes a Perfect Whiskey Sour?
The magic of a whiskey sour lies in its balance; a careful, almost poetic harmony between just three elements: spirit, sour, and sweet.
It all starts with something bold enough to stand out but smooth enough to blend in like Green River Bourbon. Add fresh lemon juice for acidity and simple syrup to round things out.
When it’s done right, you get a drink that’s bright and lightly sweet with a smooth texture and a finish that lingers just long enough. The bourbon doesn’t dominate; it anchors the experience.
And that’s why the quality of the bourbon matters so much
Whiskey Sour Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Let’s talk prep. Before you grab the shaker, gather everything you need to make your drink the right way.
- 2 oz Green River Bourbon
- ¾ oz fresh lemon juice (definitely squeeze it yourself)
- ½ oz simple syrup
- Optional: 1 egg white (for those who like a bit of froth)
- Ice
- Garnish: orange peel or cocktail cherry
Why fresh lemon juice?
Pre-bottled lemon juice tends to taste flat. Fresh juice brings brightness and complexity that really lifts the entire drink.
Curious about the egg white?
It’s optional, but worth trying. It doesn’t change the flavor, but it adds a velvety texture and a silky froth that makes the drink feel more refined.
How to Make a Whiskey Sour: Step-by-Step
With the right rhythm, a whiskey sour comes together in minutes. Here’s our tried-and-true process:
- Start mixing: Add your Green River Bourbon, lemon juice, and syrup to a cocktail shaker.
- Dry shake: If you’re using egg white, shake everything without ice for 10–15 seconds. This builds the foam.
- Shake again with ice: Toss in a handful of ice and shake until the outside of the shaker feels cold-about 15 seconds.
- Strain and serve: Pour the drink through a strainer into a rocks glass over ice, or into a chilled coupe if you’re feeling fancy.
- Garnish: Add an orange peel or cherry. Don’t skip this-it adds aroma and visual appeal.
For best results on how to make a whiskey sour, use a big ice cube in your glass. It melts slower and keeps the drink from getting too diluted. Bonus points if you chill the glass first.
Need a visual? Here’s a solid YouTube tutorial that walks through each step and mirrors what we’re outlining here.
Why Green River Bourbon is the Best for Your Whiskey Sour
If you’re tenacious and serious about making a great bourbon whiskey sour, the right pick with the right bourbon does wonders. Distilled in Owensboro, Kentucky, at one of the oldest registered distilleries in the state (DSP-KY-10), Green River introduces history and craftsmanship to every sip of each bottle. But it’s not just referred to as the legacy, it’s the choice, the flavor.
This bourbon includes a rich, rounded profile with notes of vanilla, caramel, oak, and just a hint of spice. It pairs beautifully with lemon and syrup, creating a mesmerizing drink that feels elevated without being fussy.
And because it’s Kentucky straight bourbon, you know it’s been aged and crafted to high standards. There’s a reason we reach for it when we want our bourbon whiskey sour to shine perfectly.
Variations of the Whiskey Sour
Once you’ve got the classic down, try one of these twists to keep things interesting:
- New York Sour: After creating your sour, gently pour red wine on top for a bold look and to add intensity.
- Maple Sour: Swap the simple syrup for real maple syrup. It ameliorates a rich, natural sweetness that’s perfect for fall.
- You may see smoked bitters or a smoking gun for a campfire vibe in a glass.
No matter which version you try, Green River makes a solid base. Its smoothness holds up well, even when you’re experimenting with flavors.
Pro Tips for Serving Bourbon Whiskey Sours
Planning to impress? Here’s how we like to serve a bourbon whiskey sour and what to pair it with:
- Use coupe glasses if you’re going for elegant, rocks glasses for something more laid-back
- Pair with bold foods like barbecue, sharp cheeses, or charcuterie-the drink’s acidity cuts right through richness
- Serve during cocktail hour, small dinner parties, or whiskey tastings to set the mood
Most importantly, make it an experience. The whiskey sour is the kind of drink that brings people together, and Green River helps make that moment feel just right.
Your Next Whiskey Sour Starts with Green River
At the end of the day, the whiskey sour is about enjoying good bourbon and better company. With just three core ingredients and a few quick shakes, you get a drink that’s timeless, refreshing, and deeply satisfying.
Choosing the right bourbon makes all the difference. With its heritage, balance, and warm flavor profile, it’s a match made for the perfect bourbon whiskey sour.
Want to try it for yourself? Shop now or explore our brand story to learn more.
