New York Sour: A Whiskey Sour with a Bold Red Wine Twist

The New York Sour is an elegant variation of the classic whiskey sour, featuring a rich, bold red wine float that adds depth, color, and complexity to the drink. This cocktail combines the tangy, bright flavors of whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup with the smooth, velvety texture of red wine. The result is a beautifully layered cocktail that’s as visually striking as it is flavorful.

While it’s believed to have originated in the late 19th or early 20th century, the New York Sour has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity due to its unique combination of flavors and eye-catching presentation. The red wine float not only adds a stunning color contrast but also enhances the drink with fruit-forward notes and tannic complexity.

Quick Facts: New York Sour

Method: Shaken
Flavor profile: Tangy, bold, sweet, with rich red wine notes
How to serve it: Over ice, with a red wine float
Glassware: Rocks glass or old-fashioned glass
Alcohol content: ~ 15-20% ABV, depending on the amount of whiskey and wine used

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Ingredients

The New York Sour features the same base ingredients as a traditional whiskey sour, with the addition of red wine for an extra layer of complexity. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 oz Whiskey (Rye or bourbon, depending on your preference)
• ¾ oz Fresh lemon juice (Always use freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
• ¾ oz Simple syrup (Equal parts sugar and water)
• ½ oz Dry red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, or Merlot works well)
• Ice (For serving)
• Lemon twist or cherry (For garnish)

Ingredient Notes:

• Whiskey: Rye whiskey gives the drink a spicier, bolder flavor, while bourbon adds a sweeter, richer note. Both work beautifully in this cocktail, so choose based on your taste.
• Red Wine: Use a dry red wine with good acidity and tannins, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, or Merlot. The wine should complement the whiskey without overpowering the cocktail’s base flavors.

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Equipment Needed

To make the perfect New York Sour, you’ll need the following bar tools:

• Shaker: For mixing and chilling the whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
• Jigger: To measure the whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup accurately.
• Strainer: To strain the cocktail into the glass, keeping ice shards out.
• Bar spoon: For gently layering the red wine float.
• Rocks glass: The classic choice for serving whiskey-based cocktails.
• Ice: Large cubes or a single large ice cube to keep the drink cold without diluting it too quickly.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to create a New York Sour with its stunning layered presentation:

1. Shake the Whiskey Sour Base

In a shaker, combine 2 oz whiskey, ¾ oz fresh lemon juice, and ¾ oz simple syrup. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled.

2. Strain into a Rocks Glass

Strain the whiskey sour mixture into a rocks glass filled with a large ice cube or several smaller cubes. The drink should have a pale golden hue and a refreshing, tangy aroma.

3. Float the Red Wine

Using a bar spoon, slowly pour ½ oz of red wine over the back of the spoon to gently float it on top of the whiskey sour mixture. This creates a striking layered effect, with the red wine sitting on top of the whiskey sour.

4. Garnish and Serve

Garnish your New York Sour with a lemon twist or a maraschino cherry for a bright, citrusy touch. Serve immediately and enjoy your visually stunning and flavorful cocktail!

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Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes

The New York Sour is a deliciously complex cocktail, offering a balance of bright citrus, rich whiskey, and bold red wine. Here’s what to expect from each sip:

1. Initial Taste: The first sip is tangy and refreshing, with the bright acidity of lemon juice and the sweetness of simple syrup. The whiskey adds a warm, bold backdrop, balancing the tartness with its smooth, rich flavors.
2. Mid-Palate: As you sip further, the red wine float comes into play, adding a burst of fruit-forward notes and a velvety texture. The wine’s tannins provide a subtle, dry contrast to the sweetness of the whiskey sour base.
3. Finish: The finish is long and complex, with the flavors of whiskey and red wine blending together. The drink leaves a warm, slightly fruity aftertaste, making each sip feel layered and refined.

Overall, the New York Sour offers a beautiful combination of tangy, sweet, and bold flavors, with the red wine float adding both visual and flavor complexity.

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Garnishing and Presentation

The New York Sour is a visually stunning cocktail thanks to its red wine float. Here are some ideas for garnishing and enhancing the presentation:

1. Lemon Twist: A thin lemon twist adds a bright, citrusy aroma and a pop of color. Twist the peel over the glass to release its oils before placing it on the rim.
2. Maraschino Cherry: A classic garnish for whiskey sours, a maraschino cherry adds a touch of sweetness and a burst of color to the drink.
3. Wine Glass Rim: For a more creative presentation, lightly rim the glass with lemon juice and dip it in sugar. This adds a sweet, crunchy contrast to the cocktail and highlights the drink’s elegant presentation.

Serve the New York Sour in a rocks glass with a large ice cube to highlight the beautiful layers and keep the drink chilled without diluting the flavors too quickly.

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Pairing Suggestions

The New York Sour pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods, especially those that complement its bold, tangy, and fruity flavors. Here are some pairing ideas:

1. Cheese Board: A cheese board with bold, rich cheeses like blue cheese, aged cheddar, or gouda works beautifully with the cocktail’s complexity. The tannins in the red wine enhance the flavors of the cheese.
2. Roasted Meats: Roasted meats like pork tenderloin, grilled steak, or lamb pair well with the New York Sour’s rich whiskey and red wine notes. The acidity of the lemon helps balance the richness of the meat.
3. Charcuterie: Pair the cocktail with a selection of cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and chorizo. The red wine and whiskey both complement the savory, salty flavors of the meats.
4. Fruity Desserts: Serve the New York Sour alongside fruity desserts like berry tarts, poached pears, or a simple fruit salad. The red wine and lemon flavors enhance the natural sweetness of the fruit.
5. Dark Chocolate: The richness of dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of whiskey and red wine, making for a sophisticated and indulgent pairing.

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Cocktail History and Trivia

The New York Sour is believed to have originated in the late 19th or early 20th century. While the exact origins of the drink are unclear, it is thought to be a variation of the classic whiskey sour, which was already a popular cocktail at the time. The addition of red wine likely came from bartenders experimenting with different ingredients to elevate the traditional whiskey sour.

Despite its name, the New York Sour wasn’t necessarily created in New York City—it’s more likely that it earned its name because New York was known for its vibrant cocktail culture during the early 1900s. The red wine float became the signature of this variation, adding both visual flair and extra flavor complexity to an already beloved cocktail.

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Serving Suggestions

The New York Sour is a versatile cocktail that works well for a variety of occasions, from elegant dinners to casual gatherings. Here are some ideas for serving it:

1. Dinner Parties: The New York Sour’s elegant presentation and complex flavors make it an excellent choice for dinner parties. Serve it as a pre-dinner aperitif or as an after-dinner cocktail alongside dessert.
2. Cocktail Hour: Impress your guests by serving the New York Sour during cocktail hour. Its striking layered look and rich, bold flavors make it a showstopper at any gathering.
3. Holiday Celebrations: The combination of whiskey, lemon, and red wine makes the New York Sour a perfect cocktail for holiday celebrations. Its warming qualities and beautiful presentation are ideal for special occasions.
4. Brunch: The tangy lemon and smooth whiskey make the New York Sour a refreshing option for brunch. Pair it with savory dishes like eggs Benedict or smoked salmon.
5. Mocktail Version: For a non-alcoholic version, replace the whiskey with iced tea and use a non-alcoholic red wine or grape juice for the float. This creates a refreshing and visually stunning mocktail with similar flavors to the original.

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Alcohol Content and Alternatives

The New York Sour typically has an ABV of around 15-20%, depending on the amount of whiskey and red wine used. The combination of whiskey and wine creates a bold and flavorful drink with moderate strength, perfect for slow sipping.

For a lighter version, reduce the amount of whiskey or use a lower-proof whiskey. You can also experiment with different types of wine, such as a lighter Pinot Noir or a bolder Zinfandel, to create variations of the cocktail.

For a non-alcoholic alternative, make a Tea Sour by using iced tea and a splash of lemon juice. Top it with non-alcoholic red wine or grape juice for a refreshing, alcohol-free drink with a similar flavor profile.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use other types of wine in the New York Sour?
Yes! While a dry red wine is traditional, you can experiment with other types of wine. A Pinot Noir will give a lighter, fruitier flavor, while a bold Zinfandel or Shiraz will add more intensity. Just be sure to choose a wine with good acidity and tannins to balance the cocktail’s flavors.

Can I use egg white in a New York Sour?
Yes! If you enjoy the frothy texture of a classic whiskey sour, you can add an egg white to the cocktail before shaking it. The egg white will create a silky texture and a rich foam, making the drink even more luxurious.

Is the red wine float necessary?
The red wine float is what makes a New York Sour unique, adding both flavor and visual appeal. However, if you prefer a more traditional whiskey sour, you can omit the wine and still enjoy a delicious cocktail.

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Conclusion

The New York Sour is a sophisticated, visually stunning cocktail that combines the bright tang of a whiskey sour with the rich, complex flavors of red wine. Whether you’re serving it at an elegant dinner party, enjoying it at brunch, or sipping it on a cozy evening, this cocktail offers a perfect balance of bold whiskey and smooth wine. Cheers to enjoying a classic cocktail with a modern twist!