Paul Kushner
The New York Sour is a standout whiskey cocktail that balances bold and smooth flavors with a striking visual appeal. This classic drink starts with a base of whiskey, combined with fresh lemon juice and simple syrup for a perfect mix of tartness and sweetness. What makes it truly special is the final touch—a carefully floated layer of red wine that adds depth, richness, and a subtle fruitiness. The contrast of flavors and the beautiful layered effect make this cocktail a favorite for those who appreciate both whiskey’s warmth and the elegant complexity of a well-crafted drink.
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Tasting Notes
The New York Sour is a bold and sophisticated cocktail that beautifully balances sweet, tart, and rich flavors. The rye whiskey or bourbon provides a deep, caramelized warmth, while fresh lemon juice and simple syrup add a bright, citrusy contrast. The egg white creates a smooth, velvety texture, enhancing the luxurious mouthfeel. The final float of dry red wine introduces a dark fruit complexity with subtle tannins, making each sip layered, elegant, and well-rounded.
Equipment and Glassware
To craft the perfect New York Sour, you’ll need a cocktail shaker for emulsifying the egg white, a jigger for precise measurements, and a strainer to ensure a smooth pour. The key to achieving the signature wine float is using the back of a bar spoon for a delicate, layered effect. Serve in a rocks glass, which highlights the drink’s rich hues and creamy froth.
Ingredients
- 60 ml Rye whiskey or bourbon
- 22 ml Lemon juice
- 15 ml Simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 15 ml Red wine a dry, robust wine like Malbec or Shiraz works well
- 1 Egg white
- Lemon wheel or cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Dry Shake: In a shaker, combine the whiskey, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake the mixture without ice for about 10-15 seconds. This is known as a “dry shake” and it helps to emulsify the egg white, creating that desired frothiness.
- Shake with Ice: Add ice to the shaker and continue to shake the mixture until well chilled, about another 15 seconds.
- Strain: Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Add the Wine: Using the back of a spoon, gently pour the red wine over the concoction. As with the classic version, aim to have the wine float on top of the drink for a layered effect. To achieve this, place the spoon upside down, close to the drink’s surface, and slowly pour the wine over it.
- Garnish: Garnish with a lemon wheel or cherry if desired.
- Enjoy: Relish in the smooth and frothy texture of your New York Sour, complemented by the rich depth of the red wine.
Pro Tips
- Use a bold red wine like Malbec, Shiraz, or Cabernet Sauvignon for a richer depth of flavor.
- Shake the egg white separately (dry shake) before adding ice to create a creamier, more stable foam.
- Adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the simple syrup to taste.
- If you prefer no egg white, you can still make a great New York Sour—just expect a slightly less silky texture.
- For extra depth, experiment with an aged bourbon or a spicier rye whiskey.
When to Serve
The New York Sour is a versatile cocktail perfect for both casual and upscale occasions. Its rich yet refreshing profile makes it ideal for fall and winter gatherings, cozy nights by the fire, or even as an after-dinner drink. It also stands out as an elegant choice for cocktail parties and whiskey tastings.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
For the best New York Sour, select a high-quality whiskey:
- For spice: Choose Rittenhouse Rye or Bulleit Rye.
- For smoothness: Opt for Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Woodford Reserve, or Four Roses Small Batch.
For the red wine, go with a dry, robust variety like:
- Alamos Malbec
- Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon
- 19 Crimes Shiraz
Similar Cocktails
If you enjoy New York Sour, here are five similar cocktails to try:
Ingredients
- 60 ml Rye whiskey or bourbon
- 22 ml Lemon juice
- 15 ml Simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 15 ml Red wine a dry, robust wine like Malbec or Shiraz works well
- 1 Egg white
- Lemon wheel or cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Dry Shake: In a shaker, combine the whiskey, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake the mixture without ice for about 10-15 seconds. This is known as a "dry shake" and it helps to emulsify the egg white, creating that desired frothiness.
- Shake with Ice: Add ice to the shaker and continue to shake the mixture until well chilled, about another 15 seconds.
- Strain: Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Add the Wine: Using the back of a spoon, gently pour the red wine over the concoction. As with the classic version, aim to have the wine float on top of the drink for a layered effect. To achieve this, place the spoon upside down, close to the drink's surface, and slowly pour the wine over it.
- Garnish: Garnish with a lemon wheel or cherry if desired.
- Enjoy: Relish in the smooth and frothy texture of your New York Sour, complemented by the rich depth of the red wine.
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