Sour
The foundational cocktail family built on the balance of spirit, citrus, and sweetener. Every sour follows the same template: a base spirit shaken with fresh citrus juice and a sweetening agent.
Formula
Spirit + Citrus + Sweetener
Classic ratio: 2:1:0.75
History
The sour template dates to Jerry Thomas's 1862 Bar-Tender's Guide. The basic ratio of spirit, citrus, and sugar became the most influential cocktail formula in history.
Key Variations
Whiskey Sour, Daiquiri, Gimlet, Pisco Sour, Amaretto Sour
Sub-Families
Collins
Spirit + Citrus + Sweetener + Soda
A sour lengthened with soda water and served tall over ice. Combines the balanced flavors of a sour with the …
Daisy
Spirit + Citrus + Liqueur
An evolved sour that adds a liqueur or flavored sweetener as the sweetening component, creating more complex flavor profiles.
Fizz
Spirit + Citrus + Sweetener + Soda (+ Egg)
A shaken sour with soda, served without ice in a smaller glass than a Collins. Often features egg white for …
