Go Back

Old Fashioned Sour

A classic cocktail blending bourbon or rye whiskey with fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and an optional egg white for a balanced, tart and smooth drink.
Prep Time 2 minutes
Total Time 2 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: American
Calories: 165

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 ounces bourbon or rye whiskey
  • 0.75 ounce fresh lemon juice
  • 0.5 ounce simple syrup
  • 1 egg white optional but recommended
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon wheel or twist for garnish

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker (Boston shaker or standard shaker)
  • Jigger (1.5 ounce and 0.75 ounce measures)
  • Bar spoon or long spoon
  • Cocktail strainer
  • Citrus juicer or hand reamer
  • Cutting board
  • Small knife
  • Cocktail glass (rocks glass or coupe, 4 to 6 ounces)

Method
 

  1. Chill your glass by filling a rocks glass or coupe with ice and setting it aside while you prepare the drink.
  2. Juice a fresh lemon using a citrus juicer or hand reamer and strain to remove pulp.
  3. Add 2 ounces of whiskey, 0.75 ounce of fresh lemon juice, 0.5 ounce of simple syrup, and the egg white to your cocktail shaker.
  4. Fill the shaker three-quarters full with ice cubes.
  5. Shake vigorously for 12 to 15 seconds until the shaker is frosty and condensation forms.
  6. Discard the ice from your chilled glass and strain the cocktail into it using a cocktail strainer.
  7. Garnish with a lemon wheel or express lemon oils from a twist over the drink and drop it in.
  8. Serve immediately and enjoy while the foam is still thick and the drink is cold.

Notes

Fresh lemon juice makes or breaks this drink—always squeeze it moments before mixing for the brightest flavor.