Home Cocktails Ordinary Drink Scotch Sour
Scotch Sour cocktail
Alcoholic Ordinary Drink Whiskey sour glass Medium

Scotch Sour

The Scotch Sour is a delightful twist on the classic sour cocktail, combining the rich, smoky flavors of Scotch whisky with the bright acidity of lime. This refreshing drink is perfect for those who enjoy a balance of sweet and tart, making it a great choice for any occasion.

5 Ingredients
5 min Prep Time
Whiskey sour glass Glass
Chilled Best Served
sour sweet strong

Ingredients

  • Scotch spirit 45 ml (1.5 oz)
  • Lime juice juice Juice of 1/2 Lime
  • Powdered sugar syrup 1/2 tsp
  • Lemon slice garnish 1/2 slice
  • Cherry garnish 1 Cherry

How to Make a Scotch Sour

Shake scotch, juice of lime, and powdered sugar with ice and strain into a whiskey sour glass. Decorate with 1/2 slice lemon, top with the cherry, and serve.

Bartender Tip

💡

Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor and balance.

History of the Scotch Sour

The Scotch Sour is a variation of the traditional sour cocktail, which dates back to the 19th century. It showcases the versatility of Scotch whisky, allowing it to shine in a refreshing format.

About the Scotch Sour

The Scotch Sour is a ordinary drink that belongs to the alcoholic family of cocktails. It is traditionally prepared with Scotch, Lime, Powdered sugar and served in a Whiskey sour glass.

Best enjoyed at parties, with dinner, during celebrations.

As with all alcoholic beverages, please enjoy this cocktail responsibly.

Did You Know?

The Scotch Sour is a modern twist on the classic whiskey sour, showcasing how versatile Scotch whisky can be in cocktails beyond traditional serving methods.

Scotch Sour Variations

Smoky Scotch Sour This variation uses a peaty single malt Scotch to amplify the smoky flavors, creating a more intense and robust cocktail. Swap: Use a peaty single malt Scotch instead of blended Scotch.
Honey Scotch Sour In this variation, honey syrup replaces powdered sugar, adding a floral sweetness that pairs beautifully with the Scotch. Swap: Swap powdered sugar for honey syrup.

Pairs Well With

Grilled salmon Charcuterie board Dark chocolate dessert

Quick Facts

~150
Calories
Medium
Strength
5 min
Prep Time

Common Mistake

A common mistake is not shaking the cocktail long enough, which can result in a less frothy texture and uneven mixing of ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of Scotch is best for a Scotch Sour?

For a Scotch Sour, it's best to use a blended Scotch whisky, as it tends to be smoother and more approachable. However, if you prefer a bolder flavor, a single malt can also work well, adding complexity to the cocktail.

Can I use other citrus fruits instead of lime in a Scotch Sour?

Yes, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like lemon or grapefruit. Each will bring a different flavor profile to the cocktail, with lemon providing a more classic sour taste and grapefruit adding a unique bitterness.

What is the purpose of powdered sugar in the Scotch Sour?

Powdered sugar is used in the Scotch Sour to quickly dissolve and sweeten the cocktail without leaving any gritty texture. It helps balance the acidity of the lime juice, creating a smoother drinking experience.

Is there a specific type of glass recommended for serving Scotch Sour?

The Scotch Sour is traditionally served in a whiskey sour glass, which is designed to enhance the cocktail's presentation and allow for easy sipping. The shape of the glass also helps concentrate the aromas of the drink.

How can I enhance the flavor profile of my Scotch Sour?

To enhance the flavor profile, consider adding a dash of aromatic bitters or experimenting with flavored syrups, such as ginger or honey. These additions can complement the smoky notes of the Scotch and add depth to the cocktail.

You Might Also Like