When it comes to choosing the best whiskey for a whiskey sour, there are a few factors to consider. The flavor profile of the whiskey should complement the tartness of the lemon juice and the sweetness of the simple syrup in the cocktail. Additionally, you’ll want a whiskey that can stand up to the other ingredients and provide a balanced and enjoyable drinking experience. Here are 15 bourbons that are well-suited for making a delicious whiskey sour:
1. Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon: This bourbon offers a smooth and approachable flavor profile with notes of spice, caramel, and a hint of citrus. It adds a subtle complexity to a whiskey sour.
2. Eagle Rare Bourbon: Known for its rich and full-bodied taste, Eagle Rare is a great choice for those who prefer a stronger bourbon flavor in their whiskey sour. It has a pleasing balance of sweetness and oakiness.
3. Elijah Craig Small Batch: This bourbon is aged for a minimum of four years, resulting in a deep and robust flavor. The caramel and vanilla notes make it an excellent addition to a whiskey sour.
4. Four Roses Bourbon: Four Roses is a versatile bourbon that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail. Its smooth and mellow flavor profile, with hints of fruit and spice, makes it an excellent choice for a classic whiskey sour.
5. George Remus Straight Bourbon Whiskey: With its bold and complex flavor, George Remus is a whiskey that can hold its own in a whiskey sour. It has notes of vanilla, caramel, and a touch of spice.
6. Jim Beam Kentucky Straight Bourbon: This iconic bourbon is a popular choice for whiskey sour cocktails. Its smooth and slightly sweet flavor works well with the citrusy elements of the drink.
7. Old Elk Blended Straight Bourbon: Made from a blend of high-quality bourbons, Old Elk has a rich and velvety texture with flavors of caramel, vanilla, and oak. It adds depth and character to a whiskey sour.
8. Old Forester: As one of the oldest bourbon brands in America, Old Forester has a long-standing reputation for quality. Its balanced flavor profile, with hints of citrus and spice, makes it a great choice for a whiskey sour.
9. Wild Turkey 101: If you’re looking for a bourbon with a kick, Wild Turkey 101 delivers. This high-proof bourbon has a bold and robust flavor that can stand up to the tartness of a whiskey sour.
10. Maker’s Mark: Known for its sweeter flavor profile, Maker’s Mark is a smooth and approachable bourbon. Its caramel and vanilla notes add a touch of sweetness to a whiskey sour.
11. Woodford Reserve: With its rich and full-bodied flavor, Woodford Reserve is a premium bourbon that adds depth and complexity to a whiskey sour. It has notes of dried fruit, vanilla, and spice.
12. Bulleit Bourbon: Bulleit is a popular choice for whiskey cocktails, and for good reason. Its high rye content gives it a slightly spicier flavor, which pairs well with the tanginess of a whiskey sour.
13. Knob Creek: This small-batch bourbon is known for its full-bodied flavor and long, warm finish. It has notes of caramel, oak, and vanilla, making it a great choice for a whiskey sour.
14. Buffalo Trace Bourbon: Buffalo Trace is a smooth and mellow bourbon with a balanced flavor profile. It has hints of caramel, vanilla, and spice, making it a versatile choice for a whiskey sour.
15. Michter’s US*1 Bourbon: Michter’s is a well-respected bourbon brand that produces a range of high-quality spirits. Their US*1 Bourbon has a rich and full-bodied flavor with notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice, making it a great choice for a whiskey sour.
Ultimately, the best whiskey for a whiskey sour is a matter of personal preference. Experiment with different bourbons to find the one that suits your taste and creates the perfect balance of flavors in your cocktail. Cheers!