Smoked Whiskey Sour
Quick Answer
A smoked Whiskey Sour is a classic Whiskey Sour finished with a touch of wood smoke. Shake 2 oz bourbon, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 oz simple syrup with an egg white (optional, for a silky foam) — first without ice to emulsify, then with ice to chill. Strain into a glass, add a light kiss of smoke with a smoke lid, finish with a few dashes of aromatic bitters, and garnish with a lemon slice and a cherry. The result balances sharp citrus, gentle sweetness, and a subtle campfire aroma.
Transform the classic Whiskey Sour into a smoky delight that's perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a quiet evening at home. This recipe adds a smoky twist to the traditional Whiskey Sour, using a combination of bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and a hint of smoke to create a sophisticated, multi-layered cocktail.
Best Bourbons for a Whiskey Sour
Choosing the right bourbon is crucial. Opt for a versatile bourbon that is bold enough to stand up to the strong flavors of lemon and smoke. Brands like Bulleit, Woodford Reserve, or Maker's Mark are excellent choices that are both affordable and rich in flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon Whiskey
- 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1/2 oz Simple Syrup
- 1 Egg White (optional, for frothiness)
- Aromatic Bitters
- Ice Cubes
- Smoke (using one of our cocktail smokers)
- Lemon Slice and Maraschino Cherry, for garnish
Instructions
- Preparation: In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if using).
- Mix: Shake vigorously without ice to emulsify the egg white.
- Chill: Add ice to the shaker and shake again until well-chilled.
- Smoke: Strain into a chilled glass and use a smoke lid to infuse the cocktail with a light smoke flavor.
- Garnish: Add a few dashes of aromatic bitters and garnish with a lemon slice and a cherry.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately, offering a stirring blend of sharp, sweet, and smoky flavors.
Conclusion
The Smoked Whiskey Sour is a perfect example of how traditional cocktails can be elevated with modern techniques like smoking. This cocktail not only tastes great but also serves as a fantastic conversation starter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a smoked Whiskey Sour?
It is a classic Whiskey Sour — bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup, often with an egg white — finished with a light layer of wood smoke. The smoke adds an aromatic, slightly campfire note on top of the drink’s sharp, sweet balance.
Do you need egg white in a Whiskey Sour?
No, it is optional. The egg white creates a silky foam and rounder texture but adds no flavor. If you would rather skip it, you can leave it out or use aquafaba (chickpea brine) for a plant-based foam.
What bourbon is best for a Whiskey Sour?
A bold, mid-shelf bourbon in the 90-to-100-proof range works best, because it holds its own against the tart lemon and sweet syrup. You do not need an expensive bottle — a dependable everyday bourbon is ideal for mixing.
How do you smoke a Whiskey Sour?
Build and shake the drink as usual, then strain it into the glass. Place a smoke lid on top with a pinch of lit wood chips and let the smoke settle for about 10 to 15 seconds before serving. Smoke lightly so it complements the citrus rather than overpowering it.
