Paul Kushner
The Nocino Sour is rich, earthy, and just a little nutty. This twist on a classic sour combines rye whiskey with the dark, spiced character of nocino (a walnut liqueur), plus a hint of almond from amaretto. Lemon juice keeps it bright, and an egg white gives it that smooth, foamy finish. It’s great for fall or anytime you want something cozy with a little edge.
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Tasting Notes
The Nocino Sour is rich, spiced, and well-balanced. The rye gives it warmth and structure, while lemon juice brightens things up with a tart edge. Nocino brings a deep, nutty flavor with hints of clove and spice, and the amaretto adds a soft almond sweetness. Simple syrup smooths everything out, and the egg white gives it a creamy texture and a velvety foam top. The lemon peel adds fresh aroma on the first sip. This drink is bold and smooth at the same time, perfect if you’re looking for something comforting but still refreshing.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a shaker, jigger, citrus squeezer, and a fine mesh strainer. A dry shake (shaking without ice) is helpful for getting that smooth foam from the egg white, followed by a second shake with ice. A coupe or Nick & Nora glass works best it holds the volume well and shows off the foam. Chill your glass ahead of time for a better finish. A small knife or peeler will help prep your lemon garnish, and a cocktail pick can help with placement if you’re going for a polished look.
Ingredients
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz rye whiskey
- ¾ oz nocino
- ½ oz amaretto
- ¼ oz simple syrup
- ½ oz egg white
- Lemon peel, for garnish
Instructions
- Add lemon juice, rye, nocino, amaretto, simple syrup, and egg white to a shaker without ice.
- Shake well for 10–12 seconds to build foam using a dry shake.
- Add ice and shake again for another 10–15 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled glass.
- Garnish with a lemon peel.
Pro Tips
- Dry shake first to get the best foam.
- Chill your glass to help the foam hold its shape.
- Use a bold rye for added spice and balance.
- Don’t skip the lemon peel it adds a lot to the aroma.
- Use fresh lemon juice, not bottled.
- Shake hard for a smoother texture and better blend.
- Double strain to catch ice shards and citrus pulp.
When to Serve
The Nocino Sour works well in cooler months but fits year-round if you want something smooth, nutty, and citrusy. It’s a great evening drink, especially after dinner, but it also holds up at happy hour or cocktail night. The balanced sweetness and spice make it feel comforting without being heavy. It pairs well with roasted nuts, aged cheese, or anything with a little salt or crunch. Serve it when you want something with depth but still crisp and refreshing.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Rye Whiskey: Rittenhouse, Bulleit Rye, or Wild Turkey 101
- Nocino: Nocino della Cristina, Don Ciccio & Figli, or Tosolini
- Amaretto: Luxardo Amaretto, Disaronno, or Lazzaroni
- Simple Syrup: Homemade 1:1 or store-bought like Liber & Co.
- Egg White: Use fresh or pasteurized for safety and best foam
- Lemon Juice: Always fresh-squeezed
- Garnish: Lemon peel, expressed over the drink before serving
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz rye whiskey
- ¾ oz nocino
- ½ oz amaretto
- ¼ oz simple syrup
- ½ oz egg white
- Lemon peel for garnish
Instructions
- Add lemon juice, rye, nocino, amaretto, simple syrup, and egg white to a shaker without ice.
- Shake well for 10–12 seconds to build foam using a dry shake.
- Add ice and shake again for another 10–15 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled glass.
- Garnish with a lemon peel.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best balance.
- If you don’t have nocino, you can sub in another nut liqueur, but the deep walnut flavor is what makes this stand out.
- For a smoother foam, try double-straining.
