New York Sour

This New York Sour recipe is perfect for fans of sour cocktails! It’s made with Sour Mix, whiskey, a twist of orange, and a layer of red wine that floats on top!

This is one of my favorite Drink Recipes, right alongside its sister drink, the Amaretto Sour! I love the bold blend of bourbon and red wine and the sour mix really brings it to life making it ultra-refreshing and delicious!

The New York Sour Cocktail is as beautiful as it is delicious! A cross between a Whiskey Sour and a glass of red wine, this unexpected mixed drink offers the best of both worlds. 

If you’re really feeling adventurous, you can even add an egg white! This makes it frothy and, dare I say, extra fancy? (See FAQ for how-to instructions.)

New York Sour Ingredients

• Whiskey – You can use either rye or bourbon whiskey, but not Irish whiskey. 
• Sour mix – My homemade Sour Mix is perfect for this! 
• Red wine – Fruity red wine works best – use your favorite!
• Orange peel – To twist over the drink for a hint of orange flavor. 
• Maraschino cherry – For garnish.
• Ice – First fill the shaker with ice, then you’ll need fresh ice to serve your drinks. 

How To Make A New York Sour 

1. Grab a cocktail shaker and fill it with ice, then pour in the bourbon whiskey.
2. Add the Sour Mix to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds then strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
4. Pour red wine over the back of a spoon into the glass to create that pretty layer effect.

Frequently Asked Questions  

Why is it called a New York Sour?

Although it’s thought to have originated in Chicago in the 1880s, it went through several name changes. “New York Sour” eventually stuck, thanks to the popularity it gained from a Manhattan bartender. 

How do I make it with egg white? 

Add all the ingredients, including the egg white, into a shaker WITHOUT ice (known as a “dry shake.”) Shake vigorously for 10 seconds. Then, fill halfway with ice and shake until chilled.

How does the red wine float? 

There are two reasons why:

1. Since the base of this drink contains sugar, it’s denser, so the red wine floats on top. (Therefore, sugar is an essential ingredient in this drink.)
2. It also involves a little technique. With a spoon held above the glass, gently pour the wine so it doesn’t mix with the liquid below. 

What if I don’t have sour mix? 

Substitute with this simple combination: 

• 1 ounce simple syrup
• ½ an ounce fresh lime juice
• ½ an ounce fresh lemon juice. 

More Delicious Cocktail Recipes:

• Clover Club – With flavors of raspberry and lemon, this gin drink is also made with an egg white! 
• Strawberry Margarita – It’s bursting with strawberry flavor, thanks to the addition of homemade Strawberry Simple Syrup.
• Boulevardier – This strong drink is ideal for sipping.
• Apple Crumble – The best flavors of fall, all in one boozy glass!

Let’s Connect!

If you’ve tried this recipe, please let me know how you liked it in the comments below and leave a review. I love hearing from you!

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