Amaretto Sour
The Amaretto Sour is a delightful cocktail that combines the sweet, almond-flavored liqueur, amaretto, with fresh lemon juice for a refreshing tartness. Often garnished with a cherry or a slice of lemon, this drink strikes a perfect balance between sweet and sour, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a smooth yet zesty flavor profile. Its vibrant yellow hue and inviting aroma make it a visually appealing addition to any cocktail menu.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ozAmaretto
- 3 ozSour mix
Pairs Well With
- Lemon tart
- Almond cake
- Grilled fish
- Citrus cheesecake
- Spiced nuts
Preparation
Shake and strain. Garnish with a cherry and an orange slice.
Best Enjoyed
Pro Tips
Balance sweetness and acidity carefully
use fresh lemon juice exclusively
add egg white for proper texture and mouthfeel
History & Origins
The Amaretto Sour is a classic modern cocktail that emerged in the 1970s as sour-style drinks became fashionable in bartender culture. This balanced combination of almond sweetness and citrus tartness became a staple in cocktail bars worldwide and remains a benchmark for evaluating bartender skill.
Variations
New York Sour Amaretto
An upscale variation with grenadine float creating visual drama
Amaretto Stone Sour
A variation with additional whiskey for depth
Spiced Amaretto Sour
A spiced interpretation with cinnamon and clove notes
Other happy hour Cocktails
Vodka Tonic
The Vodka Tonic is a refreshing and simple cocktail that combines smooth vodka with crisp tonic water, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Often garnished with a wedge of lime or lemon, this drink is a popular choice for those seeking a light and invigorating beverage. Its clean taste and versatility make it a staple at bars and gatherings alike.
Tequila Sour
The Tequila Sour is a refreshing cocktail that combines the vibrant flavors of tequila with the tartness of fresh lemon juice and a touch of simple syrup for sweetness. Often garnished with a slice of lemon or a cherry, this drink offers a delightful balance of citrus and spirit, making it a perfect choice for warm evenings or festive gatherings. Its smooth texture and zesty profile make it a beloved twist on the classic sour cocktail family.
The Jimmy Conway
The Jimmy Conway is a sophisticated cocktail that combines smooth Irish whiskey with a hint of sweet vermouth and a splash of aromatic bitters, creating a rich and balanced flavor profile. Garnished with a twist of lemon peel, this drink pays homage to classic cocktail traditions while offering a modern twist that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it neat or on the rocks for a refreshing sip that evokes a sense of elegance and warmth.
ABC
The ABC cocktail is a vibrant and refreshing blend of apple brandy, fresh lemon juice, and a hint of cinnamon syrup, creating a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. Served over ice and garnished with a slice of apple, this drink is ideal for both casual gatherings and festive celebrations. Its unique flavor profile makes it a delightful choice for those seeking a twist on classic cocktails.
Similar Flavor Profiles
French Connection
The French Connection is a sophisticated cocktail that elegantly combines the rich flavors of cognac and amaretto, creating a smooth and indulgent drink. Served over ice in a rocks glass, this delightful concoction offers a perfect balance of warmth and sweetness, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a refined sipping experience. Its name pays homage to the classic French spirit, embodying a blend of tradition and modern mixology.
Godmother
The Godmother is a simple yet sophisticated cocktail that combines vodka and amaretto, creating a smooth and nutty flavor profile. Served over ice or shaken and strained into a chilled glass, it offers a delightful balance of sweetness and warmth, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Its elegant simplicity is sure to please both casual drinkers and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
Amaretto Sunset
The Amaretto Sunset is a delightful cocktail that combines the rich, nutty flavors of amaretto liqueur with vibrant orange juice and a splash of grenadine, creating a visually stunning layered effect. Served over ice, this refreshing drink offers a sweet and tangy experience, reminiscent of a beautiful sunset, perfect for sipping on warm evenings. Garnished with an orange slice and a cherry, it’s both a feast for the eyes and the palate.
Amaretto Mist
The Amaretto Mist is a delightful cocktail that combines the sweet, nutty flavor of amaretto liqueur with a refreshing splash of citrus and soda. Served over ice and garnished with a twist of lemon or a cherry, this drink offers a perfect balance of sweetness and effervescence, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Enjoy it as a light aperitif or a soothing nightcap.