New York Sour Cocktail Recipe

Recipe Pin

This New York Sour has a rich base of smooth bourbon, complemented by freshly squeezed lemon juice. This cocktail is truly distinctive, offering a delightful blend of complexity and visual appeal.

I can guarantee that this cocktail will provide you with a delightful experience of contrasting flavors. From the very first sip, the bold, rich notes will remain on your palate, reflecting the city’s vibrant spirit and perfectly combining classic elegance with a modern twist.

Though it was first made by a bartender in Chicago, the New York Sour perfectly captures New York City’s vibrant culture and its reinvention spirit.

I can confidently say that this drink makes for a delightful addition to any gathering and is truly a pleasure to enjoy. So go ahead, mix up this classic cocktail.

Equipment Required

Cocktail Shaker: I recommend using this for a perfect blend.
Rock Glass: I prefer using a rock glass; however, you can use any glass you prefer.
Spoon: Use a spoon to easily pour your red wine into the cocktail mixture.
Jigger: I prefer using this for precise measurements of whiskey and red wine.
Strainer: Use a strainer to perfectly strain the cocktail after shaking.

New York Sour Ingredients & Substitutions

Note: The amount of ingredients mentioned in this section is sufficient to make one glass of New York Sour.

2 Ounces Bourbon
Ice cubes
1 Ounce Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed): You can also add in some orange juice or a mix of simple syrup and apple cider vinegar.
¾ Ounce Simple Syrup: Try honey or agave nectar for a floral note, if you don’t want to use simple syrup.
½ Ounce Red Wine: I suggest using dry rosé or fruit blend red wines for a softer blend of flavors.

Preparation And Cooking Time

Preparation Time	Total Time
5 Minutes	5 Minutes

How To Make New York Sour At Home

Step 1

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, then pour in the whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup, and shake vigorously until everything is mixed.

Step 2

Next, pour the drink into a glass. After that, gently pour the red wine over the back of a spoon to let it rest atop the cocktail.

Step 3

And that’s it! Your delightful New York Sour is now ready.

Expert Tips That I Recommend

Try infusing your simple syrup with herbs (like mint or basil) or spices (like cinnamon) for an extra layer of flavor.
I also recommend adding a dash of flavored vinegar, such as balsamic or sherry, for a unique twist that balances sweetness and acidity.
If you like experimenting with different types of wine beyond standard red wine, try a fruity Zinfandel or a rich Malbec for a different flavor profile.
I would suggest garnishing with a fresh raspberry or a slice of blood orange for a unique, citrusy, tart, and sweet flavor.
To give the New York Sour a citrusy, bitter flavor, add citrus bitters, a type of cocktail bitters.

FAQs About New York Sour

How can you adjust the drink’s flavor if it tastes too sour?

Adjust the lemon juice and simple syrup proportions carefully. If the drink is too tart, increase the simple syrup or slightly reduce the lemon juice.

How can the drink be prevented from becoming too watery?

Avoid over-shaking the cocktail with ice, as it can dilute the drink. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds, and serve immediately to maintain the right consistency.

How can you mellow the intense whiskey flavor?

You can balance the whiskey by adjusting the ratio of lemon juice and simple syrup. Adding a little more lemon juice or syrup can mellow out the whiskey’s sharpness.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

New York Sour is a cocktail recipe that isn’t very healthy. Moreover, due to its slightly higher alcoholic content, it is best to enjoy this beverage in moderation or once in a while.

Calories	235 kcal
Carbohydrates	19 g
Protein	4 g
Fat	0.1 g
Saturated Fat	0.01 g
Polyunsaturated Fat	0.03 g
Sodium	63 mg
Potassium	120 mg
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	17 g
Vitamin A	7 IU
Vitamin C	15 mg
Calcium	13 mg
Iron	1 mg

This New York Sour cocktail recipe generally suits people who follow vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and low-fat diets.

Recipe Variations For Different Diets

Vegan Diet: If you want your New York Sour to be vegan-friendly, just substitute red wine with vegan red wine like Frey Vineyards.
Ketogenic and Low-Sugar Diets: To make this cocktail keto-friendly and suitable for people on low-sugar diets, use stevia in place of simple syrup.

Storing This Recipe

In the Refrigerator: I always store my cocktails in the refrigerator and recommend you do the same. To do so, transfer your cocktail to an airtight bottle, and then place it in the refrigerator. It will last up to 1 or 2 days because of the addition of egg white.
In The Freezer: You can even freeze this cocktail by transferring it to an airtight bottle, and then place it in the freezer, and it will last up to 1 month.

What To Serve With This Recipe

To enjoy a perfect backyard party with friends, I recommend some recipes to pair with this New York Sour. Try it with Fish Tacos or Beef Sliders, which make amazing sides.

To complete your weeknight dinners, drink this New York Sour after eating Chili Con Carne and Spaghetti Bolognese. This will create a satisfying meal.

Printable Version

More Beverage Recipes That You Can Try

Homemade-Bloody-Mary-Cocktail — Red Death Cocktail

Conclusion

I recommend this elegant cocktail at your next gathering. As you pour red wine with whiskey to create that beautiful, distinct layer, your guests will be captivated by its visual appeal at your backyard parties.

The first sip reveals the harmonious blend of flavors: the robust whiskey, the refreshing citrus, and the smooth, slightly sweet red wine. Each component complements the other, creating a balanced and delightful drinking experience.

New York Sour Cocktail Recipe

Equipment Required

New York Sour Ingredients & Substitutions

Preparation And Cooking Time