New York Sour: A Wine-Topped Whiskey Wonder

BY: Lara Bolle

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updated 5 Jan 2024

IBA Cocktail

Ever wished your Whiskey Sour had a bit more character? Enter the New York Sour! This cocktail is like the cool cousin of the classic Whiskey Sour, sporting a fancy red wine 'hat' that'll make your taste buds do a double-take.

New York Sour: A Wine-Topped Whiskey Wonder

The New York Sour is a delightful twist on the classic Whiskey Sour, belonging to the sour cocktail family. This cocktail is officially recognized by the International Bartenders Association (IBA), cementing its status in the cocktail world. Also known as the Continental Sour, the Brunswick Sour, and the Claret Snap, these alternative names reflect its rich history and widespread appeal.

This drink is a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and boozy, with an added layer of complexity from the wine float. The base is made with Whiskey (usually Bourbon or Rye), fresh Lemon Juice, and Simple Syrup, shaken to create a frothy texture. The magic happens when a layer of dry Red Wine is carefully floated on top, creating a stunning two-tone effect.

When it comes to taste, the New York Sour is a rollercoaster for your palate. The first sip gives you the familiar tartness of a Whiskey Sour, followed by the warm, oaky notes of the whiskey. As you continue sipping, the red wine gradually mixes in, adding depth and a touch of fruity complexity to the drink.

The New York Sour typically has an ABV ranging from 20-25%, making it a moderately strong cocktail. Its appearance is truly Instagram-worthy, with a golden base topped by a striking ruby-red layer of wine.

Served in a rocks glass over ice, this cocktail is as visually appealing as it is tasty. It's perfect for those times when you can't decide between wine and whiskey - now you can have both! Ideal for sipping on a cool evening or as a sophisticated choice for a dinner party, the New York Sour is versatile enough to please both whiskey enthusiasts and wine lovers alike.

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A harmonious blend of whiskey's warmth and wine's complexity

”

Did you know that New York Sour...

... was actually popularized by the British Navy, who were known for their love of both whiskey and wine?

Who invented this cocktail

The New York Sour was created in Chicago in the 1880s, emerging from the city's vibrant cocktail scene during the golden age of mixed drinks.

The origin and history of "New York Sour"

The New York Sour's story begins in the Windy City during the 1880s. Its journey to becoming the 'New York' Sour is a testament to the fluid nature of cocktail history and naming conventions.

The drink's creation was likely a result of bartenders' experimentation during the late 19th century. Adding wine to cocktails wasn't uncommon, as it was a way to make drinks more palatable and complex.

Interestingly, the British Navy played a role in popularizing this style of drink. Known for their love of both whiskey and wine, sailors often combined the two, inadvertently creating proto-versions of what would become the New York Sour.

As the drink gained popularity, it made its way to New York City, where it truly found its home. The bustling bar scene of New York in the early 20th century embraced the cocktail, refining it and ultimately giving it the name we know today.

Through Prohibition and beyond, the New York Sour remained a favorite among those in the know. Its resurgence in recent years can be attributed to the craft cocktail revival, with bartenders rediscovering and celebrating classic recipes.

Today, the New York Sour is enjoyed worldwide, a symbol of American cocktail ingenuity and a bridge between the worlds of whiskey and wine. Its enduring popularity and inclusion in the IBA list underscore its significance in cocktail culture.

Bartender Tips for making the perfect "New York Sour"

To make the perfect New York Sour, try these tips:

Use a full-bodied red wine like Malbec or Shiraz for the float
Dry shake the egg white (if using) before shaking with ice for a silkier texture
Pour the wine over the back of a spoon to create a clean layered effect
Experiment with different whiskeys to find your preferred flavor profile
Chill your glass beforehand for an extra-refreshing drink

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"New York Sour" Variations

Greenwich Sour: Use green Chartreuse instead of Red Wine for the float
Boston Sour: Add an egg white to the base for a creamier texture
Bitter New York Sour: Float Campari instead of red wine for a more bitter twist
Rum New York Sour: Substitute Rum for Whiskey for a Caribbean-inspired version

The New York Sour is a delightful contradiction in a glass, proving that sometimes the most unexpected combinations create the most memorable experiences. So next time you're torn between whiskey and wine, why not have both in this classic cocktail?

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Current Comments: 2

Natalie J.

10 Sept 2024

Great balance of sweetness and tartness, but I’m not a fan of the egg white.

James Wess

6 Sept 2024

The red wine adds a great depth, but it’s a bit too sour for my liking.