The New York Sour is a cocktail that effortlessly blends the elegance of whiskey with the bold complexity of red wine. A twist on the classic Whiskey Sour, this iconic drink is known for its striking appearance and layered flavours. If you’re ready to master the art of making the perfect New York Sour, read on for tips, techniques, and ideal ingredient pairings.
A Brief History of the New York Sour
The New York Sour is a cocktail that may have originated in Chicago in the 1880s. It was originally called the Continental Sour and later the Southern Whiskey Sour. Over time, it also went by the names Brunswick Sour and Claret Snap before becoming widely known as the New York Sour. Despite its name, its association with New York likely came later as the cocktail gained popularity across the country.
What Is a New York Sour?
At its core, the New York Sour is a Whiskey Sour (whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup) with a bold red wine float that adds both visual appeal and a fruity depth to the flavour profile. The cocktail dates back to the late 19th or early 20th century and has remained a favourite for its balance of tart citrus, rich whiskey, and velvety wine.
Key Ingredients
To perfect the New York Sour, it’s essential to select high-quality ingredients that complement each other.
1. Whiskey
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Choose a bourbon or rye whiskey: Bourbon provides a sweeter, softer base, while rye offers more spice and character.
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Recommended brands: Our pick would be Michter's for a spicier kick.
2. Fresh Lemon Juice
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Always use fresh lemons. Pre-bottled juice lacks the vibrant acidity needed for the perfect balance.
3. Simple Syrup
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Make your own: Mix equal parts sugar and water, then heat until dissolved. Allow it to cool before using.
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Pro tip: Experiment with flavoured syrups, like honey or cinnamon, for added complexity.
4. Red Wine
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A bold, fruity red works best: Think full-bodied reds like Malbec, Zinfandel, or Shiraz.
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Why it matters: The wine should be rich enough to hold its own against the whiskey and citrus.
5. Egg White (Optional)
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Adding an egg white gives the drink a velvety texture and a beautiful foam layer. If you’re wary of raw eggs, pasteurized options are available.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Ingredients:
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50ml (1.5 oz) bourbon or rye whiskey
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25ml (0.75 oz) fresh lemon juice
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20ml (0.5 oz) simple syrup
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15ml (0.5 oz) red wine
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Ice
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Egg white (optional)
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Lemon wheel or cherry for garnish
Instructions:
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Shake the base ingredients:
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In a cocktail shaker, combine whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if using).
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Dry shake (without ice) for 10-15 seconds to emulsify the egg white and create foam.
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Add ice and shake again for 15-20 seconds until well-chilled.
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Strain and pour:
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Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
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Create the wine float:
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Gently pour the red wine over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect on top of the cocktail.
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The wine should sit elegantly above the whiskey base.
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Garnish:
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Add a lemon wheel or a cherry on top for an extra pop of color and flavor.
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Pro Tips for Perfecting the New York Sour
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The wine pour: The key to a perfect float is to pour the wine slowly over the back of a spoon to create the iconic layered look.
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Balance is everything: Adjust the simple syrup or lemon juice to taste, especially if your chosen whiskey or wine is on the sweeter side.
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Use large ice cubes: Large cubes melt slower, keeping your cocktail chilled without diluting it too quickly.
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Try different red wines: Experiment with bold reds like Cabernet Sauvignon or Grenache to see how they alter the flavour profile.
Why the New York Sour Stands Out
What makes the New York Sour special is the interplay between its ingredients. The citrus and whiskey deliver a classic, refreshing bite, while the red wine adds a velvety, rich layer that lingers on the palate. Each sip is a combination of bold and smooth, making it perfect for dinner parties, date nights, or an indulgent evening at home.
Food Pairings
Pair your New York Sour with complementary flavours to elevate the experience:
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Grilled meats: The smoky, charred flavours of steak or lamb pair beautifully with the cocktail’s citrusy and fruity notes.
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Cheese boards: A mix of sharp and creamy cheeses, especially aged cheddar or blue cheese, work wonderfully.
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Desserts: Try dark chocolate truffles or a berry tart for a decadent finish.
Variations to Try
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Maple New York Sour: Swap simple syrup for maple syrup for a richer, autumn-inspired twist.
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Berry Infused Sour: Muddle fresh berries in the shaker before mixing for a fruitier variation.
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Sparkling New York Sour: Add a splash of sparkling water or prosecco for a bubbly, refreshing twist.
Final Thoughts
The New York Sour is more than a cocktail—it’s an experience. With its bold flavours and signature red wine float, it brings a touch of elegance to any occasion. By choosing high-quality ingredients and mastering the technique, you can create the perfect New York Sour every time.
Ready to impress your guests or treat yourself to something special? Grab your favourite whiskey and red wine, and start mixing!
Cheers!
