As a pub or bar owner, you know the importance of offering unique and exciting cocktails to keep your customers coming back. Today, I'm diving into the world of whiskey sours, a classic cocktail that can be easily customised to suit any palate. Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast or a novice, these five whiskey sour variations will help you stand out from the competition and boost your sales.
The Classic Whiskey Sour
The foundation of any great whiskey sour is simple: whiskey, lemon juice, sugar syrup, and bitters. This timeless combination creates a beautifully balanced drink that’s both sweet and tart. For a smooth, foamy texture, consider using a foaming agent like Magic Velvet Foamers or even aquafaba (chickpea juice) as an egg white substitute.
50ml Whiskey
25ml Lemon Juice
15ml Sugar
10 drops Stillabunt Viginiti Unus Bitters
6 drops Magic Velvet Foamers
Oaky Smokey Whiskey Sour
For a smoky twist, swap out the aromatic bitters for Stillabunt oak smoke bitters. This variation adds a rich, smoky flavour without the need for complex smoking techniques. It’s perfect for customers who enjoy bold, smoky cocktails but don’t want the hassle of smoked ingredients.
50ml Whiskey
25ml Lemon Juice
15ml Sugar
10 drops Stillabunt Oak & Smoke
6 drops Magic Velvet Foamers
Cherry Whiskey Sour
Add a fruity kick to your whiskey sour by using cherry bitters instead of the traditional aromatic bitters. This change enhances the drink with a delightful cherry flavour, making it a refreshing option for those who prefer a sweeter cocktail. Alternatively, you can use cherry syrup instead of sugar for an even more pronounced cherry taste.
50ml Whiskey
25ml Lemon Juice
15ml Sugar
10 drops Stillabunt Unde Viginti Bitters
6 drops Magic Velvet Foamers
Pumpkin Whiskey Sour
As autumn approaches, why not embrace the season with a pumpkin whiskey sour? Replace the sugar syrup with pumpkin syrup to create a cocktail that’s perfect for the cooler months. This variation is sure to be a hit, especially with the popularity of pumpkin spice flavours.
50ml Whiskey
25ml Lemon Juice
15ml Reál Pumpkin Puree
10 drops Stillabunt Viginit Unus Bitters
6 drops Magic Velvet Foamers
Honey Whiskey Sour
For a touch of natural sweetness, try using honey bitters in place of aromatic bitters. While this variation may not be for everyone, it offers a unique flavour profile that can appeal to customers looking for something different. Consider experimenting with honey syrup for an even richer taste.
50ml Whiskey
25ml Lemon Juice
15ml Sugar
10 drops Stillabunt Honey Bitters
6 drops Magic Velvet Foamers
Passion Fruit Whiskey Sour
Finally, for a tropical twist, swap out the sugar syrup for passion fruit puree. This variation adds a tart and tangy flavor that’s sure to stand out on your cocktail menu. It’s a great option for customers who enjoy fruity, exotic drinks.
50ml Whiskey
25ml Lemon Juice
15ml Reál Passion Fruit
10 drops Stillabunt Viginit Unus Bitters
6 drops Magic Velvet Foamers
Conclusion
By offering these easy-to-make whiskey sour variations, you can provide your customers with a diverse and exciting cocktail menu. Not only will this help you attract more patrons, but it will also keep them coming back for more. So, get creative, experiment with these recipes, and watch your bar sales soar!