Looking to elevate your cocktail game? The Scotch Sour is a sophisticated twist on the classic whiskey sour, offering the smoky, rich depth of Scotch balanced by the bright tang of citrus. It’s smooth, refreshing, and just the right mix of bold and refined—a drink that’s perfect for cozy nights by the fire or impressing guests at a dinner party.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Unique flavor: The smoky character of Scotch makes this sour stand out.
- Simple to make: Just a few ingredients and a quick shake for a bar-quality drink.
- Versatile: Works beautifully as a pre-dinner cocktail or a nightcap.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this classic cocktail:
- Scotch whisky (choose your favorite single malt or blend)
- Fresh lemon juice (for that bright, tangy kick)
- Simple syrup (adjust for your desired sweetness)
- Egg white (optional, for a silky texture and creamy foam)
- Garnish: Lemon wheel or a cherry
Full ingredient list and measurements can be found below in the recipe card!
Directions
- In a cocktail shaker, combine Scotch, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if using).
- Shake vigorously without ice (dry shake) to create a frothy texture.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake again until well chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube or into a coupe glass for a more elegant presentation.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel or cherry, and serve immediately.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor—it makes all the difference.
- If you’re hesitant about egg whites, aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) is a great vegan alternative.
- For extra depth, experiment with honey syrup instead of simple syrup.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Swap Scotch for bourbon or rye whiskey for a different take on the sour.
- Add a dash of Angostura bitters for a touch of spice.
- Use a peaty Scotch for a more robust and smoky flavor profile.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve your Scotch Sour with:
- Savory appetizers like smoked salmon or charcuterie.
- Rich desserts like dark chocolate mousse or caramel cheesecake.
- As a standalone treat to unwind after a long day.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but you can pre-mix the Scotch, lemon juice, and syrup without the egg white. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then shake with ice when ready to serve.
- Reheating: No reheating needed—serve this one chilled!
FAQs
Q: Can I skip the egg white?
Yes, it’s optional! The egg white adds a frothy texture, but the drink is delicious without it.
Q: What’s the best type of Scotch for this recipe?
A lighter, blended Scotch works well for balance, but you can use a smoky single malt if you prefer a bold flavor.
Q: How do I make simple syrup?
Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan, heat until dissolved, and let cool. It’s super easy and stores well in the fridge!
Q: Can I make this less sweet?
Absolutely—just reduce the amount of simple syrup to your liking.
Conclusion
The Scotch Sour is a cocktail that blends classic charm with modern sophistication. Whether you’re a seasoned Scotch lover or just dipping your toes into the world of whisky, this drink is sure to impress. So, grab your shaker, pour a glass, and enjoy this timeless favorite with a twist. Slàinte!
Print
Scotch Sour
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Shaken
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
The Scotch Sour is a refreshing twist on the classic whiskey sour, made with Scotch whisky. It has a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors, with the smoky and rich notes of Scotch adding depth. This cocktail is easy to make and a great way to enjoy Scotch in a lighter, citrus-forward drink.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Scotch whisky
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon twist or cherry, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour the Scotch whisky, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup into the shaker.
- Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Strain the drink into an ice-filled rocks glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or cherry.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup based on your taste.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- A smoky or peaty Scotch adds extra depth to the cocktail, but any Scotch whisky will work well.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 5mg