Kentucky Sour

The Kentucky Sour is a timeless cocktail that perfectly balances the bold flavors of bourbon with the tartness of fresh lemon juice and the sweetness of simple syrup. It is a specific and beloved variation of the broader Whiskey Sour category, celebrated for its smooth yet robust character. This drink is shaken until perfectly chilled and served over ice, offering a refreshing and sophisticated experience for any whiskey lover.
Kentucky Sour

Preparation

Preparation time: 3 minutes

Preparation time
Difficulty

Drink Classification

The Kentucky Sour is classified as a classic cocktail. It belongs to the "sour" family of drinks, one of the oldest and most fundamental categories in mixology, known for their balance of a base spirit, a sour element, and a sweet element.

Serving

The Kentucky Sour is served cold over fresh ice in a rocks (or Old Fashioned) glass. It's a spirit-forward yet well-balanced drink with a moderate alcohol content.
Serving size
Approximately 120 ml / 4 oz (before ice)
Alcohol content
Approximately 20-25% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Rocks Glass
Glass treatment
None, though a chilled glass is a nice touch.

Backstory

The Kentucky Sour is a direct descendant of the Whiskey Sour, one of the oldest and most fundamental cocktails, first appearing in print in Jerry Thomas's 1862 "How to Mix Drinks." The "Kentucky" designation arose to specify the use of bourbon, the state's signature spirit. This version emphasizes the unique caramel, vanilla, and oak notes inherent in Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, creating a distinctively smooth profile.
Origin
USA. While the base Whiskey Sour dates to the mid-19th century, the "Kentucky Sour" naming convention is a more modern distinction to specify the use of bourbon whiskey.

Kentucky Sour

The drink is primarily known as the Kentucky Sour, which specifies its key ingredient. It is also commonly referred to as a Bourbon Sour, highlighting the type of whiskey used and distinguishing it from the broader Whiskey Sour category that might use rye or other whiskies.
Original name
Kentucky Sour
Alternative name
Bourbon Sour

Characteristics overview

This cocktail presents a beautiful amber hue and a smooth, silky texture. Its flavor profile is a masterclass in balance, pitting tart citrus against the sweet, oaky complexity of bourbon, creating a refreshing drink suitable for any season.
Flavor
Whiskey, Citrusy, Sweet, Oaky, Vanilla, Caramel
Aroma
Lemon, Bourbon, Oak, Sweet
Taste balance
Sour, Sweet
Aftertaste
Warming, Clean, Lingering whiskey notes
Fizziness
None
Color appearance
Amber, Golden-brown, Slightly cloudy from fresh juice
Texture
Smooth, Silky
Seasonality
Refreshing, All-season

Flavor intensity & Experience

The Kentucky Sour is a flavor-forward drink where the prominent sourness of lemon and sweetness from syrup perfectly complement the moderate strength and complexity of the bourbon. It is a still, non-creamy cocktail with a noticeable fruity character.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation

Ingredients

You will need three core ingredients for this cocktail: Kentucky bourbon, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and simple syrup. An orange slice and a quality cherry are traditionally used for the garnish.
  • Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey60 ml / 2 oz
    A good quality bourbon with 90-100 proof works best.
  • Fresh Lemon Juice22.5 ml / 0.75 oz
    Freshly squeezed is essential for the best flavor.
  • Simple Syrup22.5 ml / 0.75 oz
    Use a 1:1 ratio of sugar to water. Adjust quantity to your preferred sweetness.
  • Orange Slice1 slice(optional)
    For garnish.
  • Maraschino Cherry1(optional)
    A quality brandied cherry is recommended over a bright red maraschino.

Ice type

  • Cubed

Mixing equipments

The primary equipment needed is a cocktail shaker to properly chill and dilute the ingredients. A jigger for measuring and a strainer are also essential for a well-made drink.
  • Cocktail shaker for chilling and mixing.
  • Jigger for accurate measurement.
  • Strainer for pouring without ice shards.

Instructions

To prepare a Kentucky Sour, combine bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup in an ice-filled shaker, shake until very cold, and strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Finish with the classic orange and cherry garnish.
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with cubed ice.
2. Add the bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds until the shaker is well-chilled.
4. Fill a rocks glass with fresh cubed ice.
5. Strain the cocktail from the shaker into the prepared glass.
6. Garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.

Garnishing

The classic garnish is a simple "flag," consisting of a half-wheel of orange and a quality cherry skewered on a pick. A lemon twist is also a suitable alternative.
  • Orange slice and a maraschino cherry, often speared together on a cocktail pick.

Dietary Information

This cocktail is naturally free from common allergens like dairy, eggs, nuts, and soy. As distilled spirits are considered gluten-free, it is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, as well as for vegan and vegetarian diets.
✓ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✓ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly

Nutrition information

The caloric content is moderate, primarily coming from the bourbon and the sugar in the simple syrup. It contains around 15 grams of carbohydrates and sugar per serving.
Calories
Averagely 190-220 kcal / 795-920 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Approximately 15 g
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Approximately 14 g
Sugar level

Occasions

This versatile cocktail is perfect for a wide range of occasions, from a casual happy hour with friends to a more formal cocktail party. It's also an excellent choice for a quiet, relaxing evening at home.
  • Happy Hour
  • Social Gathering
  • Cocktail Party
  • Relaxing Evening

Pairing suggestions

The Kentucky Sour's balance of sweet, sour, and oaky notes pairs well with rich and savory foods. It's an excellent companion for barbecue, grilled meats, and charcuterie boards. Its acidity cuts through fat, while its sweetness complements salty snacks perfectly.
  • Barbecue dishes
  • Salty snacks like nuts and pretzels
  • Charcuterie and cheese boards
  • Grilled meats

The Kentucky Sour: A Timeless Bourbon Classic

The Kentucky Sour is a quintessential classic that showcases the beauty of simplicity and balance. It's a robust yet refreshing blend of bourbon, lemon, and sugar, creating a perfect harmony of flavors that appeals to a wide audience. Easy to make and universally appreciated, it's a staple for any home bar and a testament to the enduring appeal of the sour cocktail family. It's the ideal drink for both seasoned whiskey enthusiasts and newcomers looking to explore classic bourbon cocktails.

Variations

Boston Sour

Add 15 ml (0.5 oz) of egg white or aquafaba to the shaker for a rich, frothy texture and creamy mouthfeel.

New York Sour

After pouring the sour into the glass, gently float 15 ml (0.5 oz) of a dry red wine over the back of a spoon onto the top of the drink.

Similar cocktails

Gold Rush

Replaces the simple syrup with honey syrup (typically a 2:1 or 3:1 mix of honey and water) for a richer, more floral sweetness.

Whiskey Sour

The broader category of the drink. While a Kentucky Sour uses bourbon, a general Whiskey Sour can be made with other whiskies like rye for a spicier flavor profile.

You May Also Like

Mayahuel Cocktail

A vibrant, floral, and tart tequila cocktail balanced with elderflower liqueur and hibiscus syrup.

Oaxaca Old Fashioned

A smoky, agave-forward twist on the classic Old Fashioned, featuring both tequila and mezcal.

Dark 'n' Stormy

A simple, spicy, and refreshing highball cocktail made with dark rum and ginger beer, garnished with a lime wedge.

Vodka Gimlet

A crisp, clean, and refreshing cocktail that balances the sharp tang of fresh lime with the smooth neutrality of vodka.

Have You Tried These Yet?

Amaretto Sidecar

A sweet and nutty twist on the classic Sidecar, this cocktail swaps brandy for amaretto liqueur for a uniquely delicious sour.

Holland House Cocktail

A crisp, aromatic pre-Prohibition cocktail featuring genever or gin, balanced with dry vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and fresh lemon juice.

Ritz Cocktail

An elegant and effervescent cocktail combining the richness of Cognac with bright citrus and a luxurious Champagne sparkle.

Kangaroo Kicker

A refreshing and deceptively complex vodka cocktail featuring the herbal sweetness of Bénédictine and a tropical twist of pineapple.