An American Sour: Signature Sours Cocktail Formula
Sep 08, 2025
If you want to master a classic, start with the sour. It is one of the oldest cocktail families for a reason. Spirit. Citrus. Sweetener. Simple, balanced and endlessly reliable. From a Whiskey Sour to a Margarita, the structure stays the same and the flavor possibilities are wide open.
This guide walks you through the basics and then shows you our twist, An American Sour. Yellow Chartreuse and Polynesian Kiss Bitters turn a familiar formula into something unexpected and unforgettable.
What Is A Sour Cocktail
A sour follows a straightforward formula. Two parts spirit. One part citrus. One part sweetener. Fresh lemon or lime provides the tart backbone. A syrup, cordial or liqueur rounds out the sweetness. The spirit carries the whole drink. Many bartenders also use egg white for a velvety, foamy finish.
An American Sour: A Fresh Take On A Classic Gin Sour
This version leans bright, botanical and layered. A few thoughtful ingredients elevate the whole experience.
Yields 1 cocktail.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz El Guapo™ Lemon Cordial
- 2 oz @seventhreedistilling Gentilly Gin
- 1 oz Yellow Chartreuse
- 6 shakes El Guapo™ Polynesian Kiss Bitters
- 0.5 oz egg white
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
Instructions
- Add the Lemon Cordial, gin, Yellow Chartreuse, Polynesian Kiss Bitters, egg white and lemon juice to a shaker.
- Shake without ice until the mixture turns silky.
- Add ice and shake again until very cold.
- Strain into a chilled coupe or Nick and Nora glass.
- Finish with a few extra drops of bitters if you want added aroma.
Why Cordials And Bitters Matter
Ingredients make the sour. Lemon Cordial brings bright citrus and gentle sweetness in one step. Polynesian Kiss Bitters add tropical spice and a soft floral lift. Together they turn a simple gin sour into a layered cocktail with personality and depth.
Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo’s homepage to explore everything we offer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sours
Do I have to use an egg white?
No. Egg white adds silky texture. Aquafaba works if you want a vegan option.
What is a dry shake?
It is a shake without ice that helps create stable foam before cooling the drink.
What gin should I use?
Choose a gin with strong botanicals. Gentilly Gin is a favorite but any quality gin you enjoy will work.
How do I adjust sweetness
Use the formula as a starting point. Add more citrus for tartness or a little more sweetener if you prefer balance on the sweeter side.
