Gin Sour

The classic recipe for a Gin Sour. A perfect balance of gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and optional egg white.

A Gin Sour with a thick foam head in a tumbler glass, garnished with a lemon peel.
Strengthmedium
GlassTumbler
BaseGin
GarnishLemon peel
Prep Time5 mins
CuisineAmerican

Description

The Gin Sour is one of the fundamental pillars of the cocktail world and the direct ancestor of countless modern drinks. Its simple formula of spirit, sour, and sweet is the basis for every sour. The version with gin is particularly elegant, as the botanical notes of the gin play wonderfully with the fresh acidity of the lemon. The optional addition of egg white (which technically makes it a "Boston Sour") gives the drink a velvety texture and a stable, luxurious foam head.

Preparation

  1. Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker.
  2. Optional (for egg white version): First, perform a "Dry Shake" without ice for 15 seconds.
  3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously again until it is ice-cold.
  4. Fill a tumbler glass with fresh, large ice cubes.
  5. Strain the contents of the shaker through a bar strainer into the prepared glass.
  6. Garnish with a lemon peel.

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