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Straining — Strain and Garnish

Beginner15 mins

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Classic Whiskey Sour Recipe & Guide · Step 4 of 4

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In this video

Strain the cocktail into an Old Fashioned glass filled with one large ice cube.

Goal: Serve cocktail

Used in this video

  • Hawthorne strainer (material: Metal, size: Small, observableFunction: Straining, distinctiveFeatures: Spring coil) — Straining cocktail
  • Old Fashioned glass (shape: Cylindrical, material: Glass, size: Medium) — Serving cocktail
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FAQs

Do I need specific bar tools like a jigger and shaker, or can I use regular kitchen items?

While regular kitchen items like measuring spoons and a jar with a tight lid can work in a pinch, dedicated bar tools like a jigger and cocktail shaker ensure precise measurements and proper chilling. A jigger helps maintain the perfect balance of flavors, and a good shaker gets the drink ice-cold without over-dilution, creating a superior cocktail.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh, or a different type of whiskey?

For an authentic Classic Whiskey Sour, fresh lemon juice is highly recommended as bottled varieties often lack brightness and contain preservatives. While bourbon is traditional, you can experiment with rye whiskey for a spicier profile, but avoid heavily flavored whiskeys to maintain the classic taste.

Why is shaking for 15-20 seconds so important, and how do I know if it's properly chilled?

Vigorous shaking for 15-20 seconds is crucial for achieving optimal chilling, proper dilution, and aeration, which contributes to the drink's texture. You'll know it's properly chilled when the outside of your shaker becomes noticeably frosty to the touch. Don't be shy with your shake!

My Whiskey Sour tastes too tart or too sweet. How can I adjust the balance?

The perfect balance is subjective to individual taste! If your drink is too tart, add a splash (e.g., 1/4 oz) more simple syrup and shake briefly. If it's too sweet, a little extra fresh lemon juice will help cut the sweetness. Always taste and adjust incrementally.

Transcript
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Whew, that was a workout. Cocktail glass, your choice, whatever you want to use. You can add cube ice. For the garnish, I'm just going to get some lemon peel off. Oh yeah, so fragrant. I love it. And a lexardo cherry, one of my very favorites. You can use a maraschino cherry if you can't find lexardo. There we go. Strain it out. Look at that. And this garnish it with a little lemon peel and a cherry.

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