Paul Kushner
The Neptune Sour is a bold, colorful twist on a classic sour cocktail. Usually made with blue curaçao, lemon juice, and a base spirit like gin, vodka, or rum, it has a bright citrus bite with a smooth, slightly sweet finish. The blue color gives it a striking look perfect for parties or nights when you want something a little different. Some versions might include egg white for a silky texture and a foamy top, adding even more depth. It’s refreshing, a little tangy, and easy to enjoy, with a look that definitely stands out in the glass.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
Tasting Notes
This cocktail is bold, herbal, and slightly citrusy with a smooth, foamy finish. The gin and absinthe combine for a strong, botanical base with a touch of licorice and spice. Blue curaçao adds a hint of orange flavor and gives the drink its deep ocean-blue color. Lime juice brings the sour bite, simple syrup balances it out, and the egg white adds a silky texture with a frothy top. It’s rich but bright, with a layered flavor that’s as eye-catching as it is complex.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a cocktail shaker and strainer, plus a jigger for measuring. A dry shake (without ice) is key here to get a thick foam from the egg white, followed by a wet shake (with ice) to chill it down. A fine mesh strainer helps keep the final pour clean and smooth. Serve this drink in a coupe or Nick and Nora glass to show off the foam and color.
Ingredients
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz absinthe
- 0.5 oz blue curaçao
- 0.5 oz lime juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 1 fresh egg white
- Garnish: lime twist or edible flower (optional)
Instructions
- Add all ingredients (including egg white) to a shaker without ice. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to build foam.
- Add ice and shake again until well chilled.
- Double strain into a chilled coupe or sour glass.
- Add a lime twist or small edible flower for garnish.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh lime juice for the brightest flavor. If your absinthe is very strong, dial it back slightly to keep the balance.
- Shake hard during the dry shake to get a rich foam from the egg white.
- You can also use a reverse dry shake (shake with ice first, then shake again without) if you prefer.
- For a more dramatic look, garnish with a single drop of bitters swirled on top of the foam.
When to Serve
This is a great cocktail for late-night sipping, creative menus, or anyone looking for something different. It works well as a conversation starter and fits right in at cocktail bars or themed events. The deep color and complex flavor make it perfect for moody settings or anytime you want to serve something bold and a little unexpected.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Choose a crisp, balanced gin like Bombay Sapphire, The Botanist, or Tanqueray.
- For absinthe, go with something classic like St. George or Lucid.
- Blue curaçao from brands like Bols or DeKuyper adds the color and subtle citrus note.
- Use a basic 1:1 simple syrup, and always go with a fresh egg white for the best texture.
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz absinthe
- 0.5 oz blue curaçao
- 0.5 oz lime juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 1 fresh egg white or vegan foamer
- Garnish: lime twist or edible flower optional
Instructions
- Add all ingredients (including egg white) to a shaker without ice. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to build foam.
- Add ice and shake again until well chilled.
- Double strain into a chilled coupe or sour glass.
- Add a lime twist or small edible flower for garnish.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use a high-quality absinthe for depth without overwhelming the drink.
- Shake extra hard during the dry shake for the best frothy texture.
- Chill your glass ahead of time to keep the drink cool and smooth.
