The Best Whisky Sour Recipe to Make at Home

When life gives you lemons, mix them with whiskey and call it a good time.

The Whisky Sour is one of the oldest cocktails still making the rounds today and for good reason. It’s equal parts punchy, refreshing, and ridiculously easy to pull together, making it the go-to for folks wanting a proper drink without the drama.

Born sometime in the mid-1800s (cheers to you, seafaring sailors), the Whisky Sour has stood the test of time by doing what all great classics do: keeping it simple. Over the years, it’s evolved slightly; some versions add egg white for silky texture, others get creative with their sweetener, but the bones remain the same: whisky, citrus, and a hint of sweetness. No fluff, just flavour.

If you’re looking for a cocktail that tastes like effort but takes about 90 seconds to make, this is your new go-to. Let’s dive in.

What Even Is a Whisky Sour?

Short answer? It’s whisky with a tangy twist.

Longer answer? A Whisky Sour is what’s known in cocktail lingo as a “sour,” which means a spirit + citrus + sweetener. It’s a balancing act; the boldness of the whisky, the zing of the lemon juice, and the mellow smoothness of simple syrup all come together in a glass to deliver something greater than the sum of its parts.

And yes, it is sour but not in a bad way. It’s that kind of lip-smacking, satisfying sour that keeps you going back for another sip. Like lemonade’s grown-up, better-dressed cousin.

It’s also a certified classic, right up there with the Old Fashioned and the Martini. A staple at bars, dinner parties, and pretty much anywhere that appreciates a good time.

What You’ll Need for a Whisky Sour

• Whisky: This is the backbone of your drink, so pick something you’d enjoy sipping on its own. A good bourbon is the go-to for that sweet, oaky warmth. Rye works too, if you like a spicier edge.

• Fresh Lemon Juice: Bottled won’t cut it here. Squeeze it fresh, or your sour will be sad.

• Simple Syrup: Equal parts sugar and water because sour needs a little sweetness to keep it balanced.

• Ice: Shaken, not stirred — you want it cold, crisp, and frothy.

• Egg White (Optional): Adds texture and that iconic foamy top. More on that in a sec.

That’s it. No fancy liqueurs, no obscure bitters, just the essentials, done right.

Do You Really Need an Egg in a Whisky Sour?

Honestly? No. But do you want one? Maybe.

Adding an egg white doesn’t change the flavour much, but it does give your drink a velvety mouthfeel and that photogenic layer of foam on top. If you’re into cocktail aesthetics or want a smoother sip, it’s worth a crack (pun intended).

Not keen on the egg idea? No stress. Aquafaba (chickpea water) is a solid vegan alternative, or you can skip it altogether and still end up with a top-tier cocktail.

What You’ll Need for a Good George Whisky Sour

The best thing about the Good George Whisky Sour is that you only need a few essentials:

• Good George Whisky Sour: This is the star of the show, blending whisky, zesty lemon and a secret foaming agent in perfect harmony. We’ve done the hard yards and combined all the ingredients.
• Ice: Crucial for chilling the drink and creating that signature frothy top.
• Cocktail shaker: Helps mix and chill everything thoroughly.

These ingredients come together to create a bold and refreshing Whisky Sour cocktail that is easy to enjoy.

How to Make a Good George Whisky Sour Cocktail

Making a Good George Whisky Sour at home couldn’t be easier. Start by giving the Good George Whisky Sour bottle a good shake. Pour the required amount into a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously until the mixture is well chilled and frothy. Strain into a glass and, if you like, top it off with a lemon twist or cherry.

Whisky Sour Variations Worth a Shot

Once you’ve nailed the classic, don’t be afraid to mix things up. Here are a few riffs worth trying:

• Maple Sour: Swap the simple syrup for maple syrup for a rich, earthy twist.

• Smoky Sour: Use a peated Scotch for a campfire-in-a-glass experience.

• New York Sour: Float a splash of red wine on top for drama and depth.

• Citrus Twist: Try blood orange or yuzu juice instead of lemon if you’re feeling fancy.

The key? Balance. Keep the sweet-sour-whisky ratio in check, and you can’t go too far wrong.

Whisky Sour Recipe

Ingredients

• 60ml whisky

• 30ml fresh lemon juice

• 15ml simple syrup

• Optional: 15ml egg white or aquafaba (chickpea water)

• Ice

• Garnish: lemon slice or cherry

Instructions

1. Add whisky, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if using) to a cocktail shaker.

2. Shake vigorously without ice for 10 seconds (this helps foam up the egg white).

3. Add ice and shake again for 15–20 seconds until chilled.

4. Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice (or into a coupe if you’re feeling flash).

5. Garnish and sip like you mean it.

Equipment (Optional)

• Cocktail shaker

• Jigger or shot glass

• Fine strainer

• Rocks or coupe glass

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with a lemon twist, dehydrated citrus wheel, or cherry.

• Serve it at your next dinner party, cocktail night, or solo Friday wind-down.

• For a modern twist, torch the citrus garnish for a smoky edge.

• Want it extra cold? Chill your glass beforehand.

A Whisky Sour doesn’t demand much, just good ingredients, a quick shake, and a moment to enjoy it properly. Whether you're a cocktail rookie or a seasoned sipper, this drink's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Cheers to the classics. And to not overcomplicate things.

Click to see our other award-winning whisky options here.