Scotch Sour
A robust twist on the classic sour cocktail, replacing bourbon with the smoky depth of Scotch whisky. The tartness of fresh lime and a touch of powdered sugar create a perfectly balanced, sophisticated sipper.
What it tastes like
The aroma features peat smoke and malt from the whisky alongside bright citrus zest. On the palate, the lime provides a sharp acidity that cuts through the rich, toasted grain notes of the Scotch. The powdered sugar creates a light, syrupy mouthfeel that balances the spirit's heat, finishing with a dry, oaky linger.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Scotch Whisky1.5 oz
- Lime (Juiced)0.5 wholes
- Powdered Sugar0.5 tsp
- Lemon0.5 slices
- Maraschino Cherry1 whole
Preparation
- 1
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
- 2
Pour in the Scotch whisky, squeeze in the juice from half a lime, and add the powdered sugar.
- 3
Shake vigorously until the mixture is well chilled and the sugar has dissolved.
- 4
Strain the mixture into a chilled sour glass.
- 5
Garnish with a half slice of lemon and top with a maraschino cherry.
- 6
Serve immediately.
Substitutions
- Powdered SugarSimple Syrup — This results in a smoother texture and more consistent sweetness throughout the drink.
- Lime JuiceLemon Juice — This swap offers a more traditional sour profile with slightly less zest and more rounded acidity.
- Scotch WhiskyBourbon — Switching to bourbon replaces the smoky, peaty notes with caramel and vanilla sweetness.
- Maraschino CherryFresh Raspberry — A fresh berry adds a bright, fruity tartness instead of the syrupy sweetness of a preserved cherry.
Variations
Penicillin
Add fresh ginger and honey syrup to introduce a spicy warmth and floral depth.
Scotch Silk
Incorporate one egg white before shaking to create a thick, frothy head and a silkier mouthfeel.