Amaretto Sour

The Amaretto Sour is a classic cocktail that strikes a perfect balance between sweet almond liqueur, tart citrus, and a smooth, silky texture from egg white. While amaretto alone makes for a pleasant drink, the addition of bourbon adds depth, creating a richer and more complex flavor profile. This modern twist elevates the familiar sweet-and-sour combination into something more nuanced. Served over ice and topped with a frothy crown, it’s as visually inviting as it is flavorful a drink that feels both comforting and refined, making it ideal for slow sipping year-round.

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Tasting Notes

The Amaretto Sour is a smooth balance of sweet almond notes and tangy citrus brightness. The amaretto delivers a warm, nutty flavor, while bourbon adds depth and a subtle hint of oak. Fresh lemon juice provides a tart counterpoint that keeps the drink lively and refreshing. The egg white gives it a creamy, foamy texture without altering the flavor, making each sip soft and full-bodied. A touch of simple syrup ensures the flavors stay harmonious. Garnished with a brandied cherry and lemon peel, it’s both rich and refreshing, perfect for those who enjoy a sweet yet layered cocktail experience.

Equipment and Glassware

To prepare an Amaretto Sour, you’ll need a cocktail shaker capable of handling both a dry shake and a standard shake. A jigger is important for measuring the spirits, citrus, and syrup accurately. A bar spoon works well for handling small amounts of syrup. You’ll also need a strainer to keep ice shards out of the final pour. A sharp vegetable peeler can help create a clean lemon peel garnish. The drink is traditionally served in a rocks glass over fresh ice, allowing the foam to rest on top while keeping the cocktail chilled from the first sip to the last.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz amaretto
• 0.75 oz bourbon
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 bar spoon simple syrup
• 0.5 oz egg white
• Garnish: brandied cherry and lemon peel

Instructions

• Add the amaretto, bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white to a cocktail shaker without ice.
• Dry shake for about 15 seconds to create a light, foamy texture.
• Add ice to the shaker and shake again until thoroughly chilled.
• Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
• Garnish with a brandied cherry and a twist of lemon peel.

Pro Tips

• Use fresh lemon juice for optimal brightness
• Chill the rocks glass beforehand to keep the drink cold longer
• Quality amaretto such as Disaronno makes a noticeable difference
• Choose a bourbon with a smooth profile to avoid overpowering the amaretto
• Dry shake vigorously to achieve a stable, thick foam
• Use large, clear ice cubes to slow dilution
• Express the lemon peel over the drink for more aroma
• Consider using a rich simple syrup (2:1 ratio) for added body
• Strain with a fine mesh for a smoother presentation
• Serve immediately to maintain the foam structure

When to Serve

The Amaretto Sour is an excellent choice for evening gatherings, holiday parties, or after-dinner drinks. Its balance of sweetness and tang works well as a dessert-style cocktail without being heavy. It’s especially appealing in cooler months when the nutty warmth of amaretto and the depth of bourbon feel comforting. This drink also fits well at cocktail parties where presentation matters the foam and garnish make it visually striking. Serve it to guests who enjoy sweeter cocktails with a layer of complexity, or as a treat for yourself when you want a smooth, flavorful drink that feels both refreshing and satisfying.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Amaretto

• Disaronno
• Lazzaroni Amaretto
• Luxardo Amaretto di Saschira

Bourbon

• Maker’s Mark
• Woodford Reserve
• Buffalo Trace