The Art of Mixology: Classic Cocktails and Curious Concoctions
Buy Now →Looking for a cocktail that’s both vibrant and delicious? The Emerald Sour is a stunning twist on a classic whiskey sour, featuring smooth Irish whiskey, a hint of Midori for a beautiful green hue, and a refreshing citrus balance. With or without the optional egg white, this cocktail is perfect for St. Patrick’s Day, spring celebrations, or any time you want to sip on something unique and eye-catching!
Let’s get shaking!
Ingredients
✅ 2 oz Irish Whiskey
✅ ¾ oz Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice
✅ ½ oz Simple Syrup
✅ ¼ oz Midori (for that signature green glow!)
✅ 1 Egg White (optional, for a frothy top)
✅ Ice
✅ Garnish: Lemon Wheel or Cherry
Instructions
1️⃣ Shake the Ingredients
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the Irish whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, Midori, and egg white (if using).
- Dry Shake (no ice) first for about 10 seconds if using egg white—this helps create a silky froth.
- Add ice to the shaker, cover, and shake vigorously for another 10–15 seconds to chill the drink.
2️⃣ Strain and Serve
- Double strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass to ensure a smooth texture.
3️⃣ Garnish & Enjoy
- Add a lemon wheel or cherry for a festive finishing touch.
- Serve immediately and sip away!
Notes
For an extra frothy top, use the dry shake method—shake all ingredients without ice first, then shake again with ice.
No simple syrup? Swap it for honey syrup or maple syrup for a richer sweetness.
Prefer a stronger green color? Add a touch more Midori or a tiny drop of green food coloring.
Helpful Tips for the Best Emerald Sour
✅ Chill your glass before pouring to keep the drink refreshing.
✅ Use fresh lemon juice for the best balance of tartness and freshness.
✅ Shake hard—especially if using egg white—to create a creamy, velvety texture.
✅ Want a lighter cocktail? Use 1½ oz whiskey instead of 2 oz and add a splash of soda water for a fizzier variation.
Storage Instructions
Best served fresh! This cocktail doesn’t store well once mixed, so enjoy it immediately.
Want to prep ahead? You can pre-mix the whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and Midori, then refrigerate for a few hours. Just shake with ice when ready to serve.
Do NOT store with egg white—it loses its texture over time.
Substitutions & Variations
No Midori? Try green chartreuse for a herbal twist or skip it for a classic whiskey sour.
Egg-Free Version? Just leave it out! The drink will still taste fantastic.
Sweeter Alternative? Use orange liqueur like Cointreau instead of Midori for a citrusy variation.
Make It a Mocktail: Swap whiskey for ginger ale or non-alcoholic whiskey alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use bourbon instead of Irish whiskey?
Yes! It will taste a bit richer and sweeter, but still delicious.
2. What’s the purpose of the egg white?
Egg white creates a silky, creamy froth on top, making the cocktail smoother and more elegant.
3. Is there a vegan alternative to egg white?
Yes! Use aquafaba (chickpea water) for the same frothy effect.
4. Can I batch-make this cocktail for a party?
You can pre-mix everything except the egg white and store it in the fridge. Just shake individual servings with ice when ready.
Conclusion
The Emerald Sour is a bright, refreshing, and festive take on the whiskey sour, perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any occasion that calls for a smooth and citrusy cocktail. With its smooth Irish whiskey base, tangy lemon, and vibrant green hue from Midori, this drink is as fun to look at as it is to sip!
Love this recipe? Try these next:
Classic Whiskey Sour
Green Apple Mule
Honey Bourbon Smash
💬 Tried this cocktail? Share your thoughts and photos on Pinterest or Instagram—I’d love to see your creations!
Sláinte!
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The Emerald Sour – A Green-Hued Irish Whiskey Cocktail
Description
Looking for a cocktail that’s both vibrant and delicious? The Emerald Sour is a stunning twist on a classic whiskey sour, featuring smooth Irish whiskey, a hint of Midori for a beautiful green hue, and a refreshing citrus balance. With or without the optional egg white, this cocktail is perfect for St. Patrick’s Day, spring celebrations, or any time you want to sip on something unique and eye-catching!
Ingredients
✅ 2 oz Irish Whiskey 🥃
✅ ¾ oz Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice 🍋
✅ ½ oz Simple Syrup 🍯
✅ ¼ oz Midori (for that signature green glow!) 🍈
✅ 1 Egg White (optional, for a frothy top) 🍳
✅ Ice ❄️
✅ Garnish: Lemon Wheel or Cherry 🍒
Instructions
1️⃣ Shake the Ingredients
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the Irish whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, Midori, and egg white (if using).
- Dry Shake (no ice) first for about 10 seconds if using egg white—this helps create a silky froth.
- Add ice to the shaker, cover, and shake vigorously for another 10–15 seconds to chill the drink.
2️⃣ Strain and Serve
- Double strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass to ensure a smooth texture.
3️⃣ Garnish & Enjoy
- Add a lemon wheel or cherry for a festive finishing touch.
- Serve immediately and sip away! 🍀🥂
Notes
✔️ For an extra frothy top, use the dry shake method—shake all ingredients without ice first, then shake again with ice.
✔️ No simple syrup? Swap it for honey syrup or maple syrup for a richer sweetness.
✔️ Prefer a stronger green color? Add a touch more Midori or a tiny drop of green food coloring.