18 Refreshing Sour Cocktail Recipes for Summer

Summer’s here, and there’s no better way to beat the heat than with a perfectly sour cocktail in hand! Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard BBQ, our roundup of 18 Refreshing Sour Cocktail Recipes is your ticket to cool, tangy bliss. From classic twists to bold new creations, these drinks are sure to delight your taste buds and keep the summer vibes flowing. Cheers to keeping it refreshingly sour!

Classic Whiskey Sour

Craving something sweet, tangy, and with a little kick? The Classic Whiskey Sour is your go-to drink. It’s simple, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon whiskey (or rye whiskey for a spicier twist)
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice (about 1 medium lemon)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1 egg white (optional for a frothy texture)
• Ice cubes (for shaking and serving)
• Angostura bitters (a dash for garnish)
• Maraschino cherry or lemon wheel (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white if using.
2. Dry shake (without ice) vigorously for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
3. Add ice to the shaker and shake again for another 15-20 seconds until well chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
5. Gently add a dash of Angostura bitters on top for aroma and garnish with a maraschino cherry or a lemon wheel.

Lovingly crafted, this Whiskey Sour balances the boldness of whiskey with the freshness of lemon. The optional egg white adds a silky texture that makes each sip smooth. Serve it up at your next gathering or enjoy it solo as a well-deserved treat.

Amaretto Sour

Ready to shake up your cocktail game? The Amaretto Sour is a sweet, tangy delight that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. You’ll love its smooth almond flavor balanced with a bright citrus kick.

Ingredients

• 2 oz amaretto (try Disaronno for a classic taste)
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice (strained for smoothness)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to sweetness preference)
• 1 egg white (for frothiness, optional but recommended)
• Ice cubes (for shaking and serving)
• Maraschino cherry and orange slice (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes to chill your drink properly.
2. Add 2 oz amaretto, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 oz simple syrup to the shaker. Tip: Fresh lemon juice makes a huge difference in flavor.
3. If using, add 1 egg white for that signature frothy top. Secure the lid tightly.
4. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. This not only mixes but also aerates the egg white.
5. Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice to avoid dilution from the shaking ice.
6. Garnish with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Best enjoyed immediately, this cocktail offers a silky texture with a perfect balance of sweet and sour. Try serving it in a chilled glass for an extra refreshing twist.

Boston Sour

Craving something refreshing with a twist? The Boston Sour is your go-to drink, blending the boldness of whiskey with the fresh zing of lemon and a hint of sweetness, topped off with a frothy egg white layer that makes it irresistibly smooth.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon whiskey (or rye for a spicier kick)
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice (strained for no pulp)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 oz egg white (about 1 medium egg white, fresh is best)
• Angostura bitters (just a dash for garnish)
• Ice cubes (for shaking)

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. No ice yet—this is a dry shake to emulsify the egg white.
2. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the mixture is frothy. Tip: Listen for the sound to change; it’ll get quieter as the egg white aerates.
3. Add a handful of ice cubes to the shaker. Shake again for another 10-15 seconds until well chilled. Tip: The shaker should feel cold to the touch.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass. Hold the strainer close to the glass to preserve the foam.
5. Gently dash a few drops of Angostura bitters on top of the foam. Tip: Use a toothpick to swirl the bitters into a design if you’re feeling fancy.

Bold yet balanced, the Boston Sour offers a silky texture with each sip, thanks to the egg white. The lemon brightens the whiskey’s depth, making it a perfect drink to enjoy as the sun sets or to impress guests at your next gathering.

New York Sour

You’ve probably heard of the classic Whiskey Sour, but have you tried its fancy cousin, the New York Sour? It’s a game-changer with a red wine float that adds a whole new layer of flavor and sophistication.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (or rye whiskey for a spicier kick)
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon, no substitutes!)
• 3/4 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 oz red wine (a dry variety like Cabernet works best)
• 1 egg white (optional for a frothy top)
• Ice cubes (for shaking and serving)

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes to chill it while you gather your ingredients.
2. Add the bourbon, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if using) to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients. Tip: The longer you shake, the frothier the egg white will become.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice, leaving a little space at the top.
5. Slowly pour the red wine over the back of a spoon to float it on top of the cocktail. Tip: Pouring over the spoon helps the wine float rather than mix in.
6. Give it a gentle stir if you want a marbled effect, or leave it layered for a striking presentation.

Kick back and enjoy the smooth, tangy sip with a bold wine finish. Perfect for those nights when you want to feel a bit fancy without too much fuss. Try serving it with a dark chocolate square on the side to complement the wine’s richness.

Pisco Sour

Mmm, there’s nothing like a refreshing Pisco Sour to kick off your evening. This classic cocktail is a delightful blend of tangy and sweet, with a frothy top that makes it irresistibly smooth.

Ingredients

– 2 oz Pisco (try a Peruvian brand for authenticity)
– 1 oz fresh lime juice (about 1 lime, squeeze it yourself for the best flavor)
– 1 oz simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, dissolved)
– 1 egg white (for that signature froth)
– 3 drops Angostura bitters (just a dash for garnish)
– Ice cubes (for shaking, the colder the better)

Instructions

1. Chill your cocktail glass by filling it with ice water and setting it aside while you prepare the drink.
2. In a shaker, combine the Pisco, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and egg white.
3. Dry shake (without ice) vigorously for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
4. Add ice to the shaker and shake again for another 15 seconds until well chilled.
5. Discard the ice water from your glass and strain the mixture into the chilled glass.
6. Carefully add 3 drops of Angostura bitters on top of the foam for garnish.
7. Let the drink sit for a moment to allow the foam to rise to the top. Now, your Pisco Sour is ready to enjoy!
Never underestimate the power of a well-made Pisco Sour. Its velvety texture and balanced flavors make it a standout cocktail. Serve it at your next gathering, or enjoy it solo as a treat to yourself.

Vodka Sour

Wondering how to shake up your cocktail game? A Vodka Sour is your go-to for a refreshing, tangy sip that’s surprisingly easy to whip up at home.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka (use your favorite brand for the best flavor)
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice (strained to avoid pulp)
• 3/4 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 oz egg white (optional for frothiness)
• Ice cubes (for shaking and serving)
• Angostura bitters (a dash for garnish)

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes to chill your drink properly.
2. Add 2 oz vodka, 1 oz lemon juice, and 3/4 oz simple syrup to the shaker. Tip: Fresh lemon juice makes a world of difference in flavor.
3. If using, add 1/2 oz egg white for that silky texture. Secure the shaker lid tightly.
4. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. The longer you shake, the frothier the egg white becomes.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with fresh ice. This step ensures your drink is smooth and cold.
6. Finish with a dash of Angostura bitters on top for a hint of spice and a professional touch.

Frothy, tangy, and just sweet enough, this Vodka Sour is a crowd-pleaser. Serve it in a coupe glass for an elegant touch or enjoy it straight from the shaker for a more casual vibe.

Gin Sour

Vibrant and refreshing, the Gin Sour is your go-to cocktail for those evenings when you crave something tangy yet smooth. You’ll love how the citrusy kick balances the gin’s botanicals, making every sip a delightful experience.

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin (use your favorite brand for the best flavor)
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice (strained for a smoother texture)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1 egg white (for that silky foam)
• Ice cubes (enough to fill the shaker)
• Angostura bitters (just a dash for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white.
2. Secure the lid on the shaker and dry shake (without ice) vigorously for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
3. Open the shaker, add ice cubes to fill it about halfway, then shake again for another 15-20 seconds until well-chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass, using a fine mesh strainer for a smoother texture.
5. Gently add a dash of Angostura bitters on top of the foam for garnish.

Absolutely perfect for sipping, the Gin Sour boasts a velvety texture with a bright, citrusy flavor that’s subtly sweet. Try serving it with a twist of lemon peel on the rim for an extra zesty touch.

Rum Sour

Perfect for those evenings when you’re craving something a bit special but don’t want to fuss over complicated recipes, the Rum Sour is your go-to. It’s a classic cocktail that balances the warmth of rum with the bright tang of citrus, all smoothed out with a touch of sweetness.

Ingredients

• 2 oz dark rum (or light rum for a milder flavor)
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice (strained for a smoother drink)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1 egg white (optional, for a frothy top)
• Ice cubes (for shaking)
• Angostura bitters (a dash, for garnish)
• Maraschino cherry or lemon twist (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the rum, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white if using.
2. Fill the shaker halfway with ice cubes, then seal tightly.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to chill the mixture and, if using, froth the egg white.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass to remove the ice and any large bits.
5. Gently drop a dash of Angostura bitters on top for aroma and a hint of spice.
6. Garnish with a maraschino cherry or a lemon twist for a decorative touch.

Makes for a silky, slightly tart cocktail with a comforting warmth from the rum. Serve it up at your next gathering or enjoy it solo as a refined nightcap.

Tequila Sour

Alright, let’s dive into making a Tequila Sour, a refreshing cocktail that’s perfect for sipping on a warm evening. You’ll love how the tangy lime and smooth tequila come together in this easy-to-make drink.

Ingredients

• 2 oz tequila (silver or reposado works best)
• 1 oz fresh lime juice (about 1 lime, adjust to taste)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (or more if you like it sweeter)
• 1 egg white (for that silky foam, optional but recommended)
• Ice cubes (for shaking)
• Angostura bitters (a dash for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, lime juice, simple syrup, and egg white.
2. Dry shake (without ice) vigorously for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
3. Add ice to the shaker and shake again for another 15-20 seconds until well chilled.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
5. Let it sit for a moment to allow the foam to rise, then add a dash of Angostura bitters on top for garnish.

Delight in the creamy texture and the perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors. Serve it up with a slice of lime on the rim for an extra zesty touch.

Bourbon Sour

Whiskey lovers, rejoice! Today, we’re diving into the classic Bourbon Sour, a cocktail that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Perfect for sipping on a lazy afternoon or impressing guests at your next gathering.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (go for your favorite brand)
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon, adjust to taste)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 egg white (optional, for a frothy top)
• Ice cubes (for shaking and serving)
• Angostura bitters (just a dash, for garnish)
• Maraschino cherry or lemon wheel (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white if using.
2. Fill the shaker with ice, seal tightly, and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. This chills the drink and, if using, emulsifies the egg white for that silky texture.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled rocks glass filled with fresh ice. This step ensures your drink is cold and refreshing.
4. Gently add a dash of Angostura bitters on top for aroma and a hint of complexity.
5. Garnish with a maraschino cherry or a lemon wheel for a touch of elegance.

Here’s the deal: the Bourbon Sour is a beautiful balance of sweet, sour, and strong, with a velvety texture if you opt for the egg white. Serve it up at your next dinner party, or enjoy it solo as a well-deserved treat. Either way, it’s a winner.

Scotch Sour

Ready to shake up your cocktail game? The Scotch Sour is a classic that’s both refreshing and easy to make at home. You’ll love its perfect balance of sweet, sour, and smoky flavors.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Scotch whisky (a smoky single malt works best)
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice (strained for smoothness)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1 egg white (for frothiness, optional but recommended)
• Ice cubes (for shaking)
• Angostura bitters (just a dash for garnish)

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes to chill it, then discard the ice.
2. Add the Scotch whisky, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white to the shaker.
3. Dry shake (without ice) vigorously for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
4. Add ice to the shaker and shake again for another 10-15 seconds until well chilled.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass to serve it neat.
6. Garnish with a dash of Angostura bitters on top of the foam for a aromatic finish.

Delight in the velvety texture and the harmonious blend of flavors in your Scotch Sour. For an extra touch, serve it with a thin lemon wheel on the rim to hint at the citrusy goodness inside.

Brandy Sour

Just when you think you’ve tried all the classic cocktails, the Brandy Sour comes along to shake things up. It’s a simple, refreshing drink that balances the warmth of brandy with the tartness of lemon, perfect for sipping on a lazy afternoon.

Ingredients

• 2 oz brandy (a good quality one makes a difference)
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon, adjust to taste)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (or more, if you like it sweeter)
• 1 egg white (optional, for a frothy top)
• Ice cubes (for shaking and serving)
• Angostura bitters (a dash, for garnish)
• Maraschino cherry or lemon slice (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the brandy, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white if using. The egg white adds a silky texture but can be skipped if you prefer.
2. Fill the shaker with ice, seal tightly, and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. This chills the drink and, if using egg white, creates a nice foam.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with fresh ice. A coupe glass works great for a fancy touch, but any glass will do.
4. Add a dash of Angostura bitters on top for aroma and a hint of spice. Garnish with a cherry or lemon slice if you’re feeling fancy.

What you’ll love about this Brandy Sour is its perfect balance—sweet, sour, and strong, with a smooth finish. Try serving it at your next brunch for a cocktail that’s sure to impress.

Champagne Sour

Did you know that a Champagne Sour is the perfect way to add a little sparkle to your evening? It’s a refreshing twist on the classic sour cocktail, with the bubbly elegance of champagne. Here’s how you can whip one up in no time.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (or whiskey of your choice)
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice (strained for smoothness)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1 egg white (for frothiness, optional but recommended)
• 2 oz champagne (chilled, for topping)
• Ice cubes (for shaking)
• Lemon twist or cherry (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Secure the lid.
2. Dry shake (without ice) vigorously for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white and create a frothy texture.
3. Add a handful of ice cubes to the shaker. Shake again for another 15-20 seconds until well chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass, ensuring a smooth pour to maintain the froth.
5. Gently top with champagne, pouring it down the side of the glass to preserve the bubbles.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or cherry on the rim for a decorative touch.

Kick back and enjoy the silky texture and the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and bubbly in every sip. For an extra touch of luxury, serve it in a gold-rimmed glass or alongside dark chocolate truffles.

Blueberry Sour

Got a craving for something tangy and refreshing? This Blueberry Sour is your go-to drink, blending the sweetness of blueberries with a sharp citrus kick. Perfect for those warm evenings when you need a little pick-me-up.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh blueberries (frozen works too, just thaw them first)
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3 lemons, adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup simple syrup (or more, depending on how sweet you like it)
• 2 cups cold water
• Ice cubes (as much as you like)
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional, but adds a nice touch)

Instructions

1. In a blender, combine the blueberries, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Blend until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher to remove the blueberry skins. This step ensures a smoother drink.
3. Add the cold water to the pitcher and stir well. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness by adding more simple syrup or lemon juice if needed.
4. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the blueberry sour over the ice.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if using, and serve immediately.

Refreshingly tart with a sweet blueberry finish, this drink is a crowd-pleaser. Try serving it with a slice of lemon on the rim for an extra zesty touch.

Raspberry Sour

Got a craving for something sweet yet tangy? This Raspberry Sour is your go-to drink. It’s refreshing, easy to make, and perfect for those warm summer evenings.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh raspberries (frozen works too, just thaw first)
• 2 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
• 1 cup ice cubes
• 1/2 cup club soda (chilled)

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, combine raspberries, sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the raspberries break down.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl to remove seeds. Press down with a spoon to extract all the juice. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. In a large glass, mix the raspberry syrup with lemon juice. Tip: Taste and add more sugar if needed.
4. Add ice cubes to the glass, then top with club soda. Stir gently to combine. Tip: For a stronger fizz, add the club soda just before serving.
5. Garnish with a few fresh raspberries or a lemon slice on the rim. Tip: Serve immediately to enjoy the bubbles at their peak.

This Raspberry Sour strikes a beautiful balance between sweet and tart, with a fizzy finish that’s utterly refreshing. Try it with a sprig of mint for an extra burst of freshness.

Strawberry Sour

Zesty and refreshing, this Strawberry Sour is your go-to drink for those warm summer evenings. You’ll love how the sweet strawberries balance the tangy lemon, creating a perfectly harmonious sip.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (frozen works too, just thaw first)
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons, adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup simple syrup (or more if you like it sweeter)
• 1/2 cup cold water
• Ice cubes (for serving)
• Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. In a blender, combine the strawberries, lemon juice, simple syrup, and cold water.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth, about 30 seconds. Tip: If you prefer a smoother drink, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds.
3. Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the strawberry mixture over the ice.
4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Tip: For an extra chill, freeze some strawberry slices to use as ice cubes.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors. Tip: Pair this drink with a light salad or grilled seafood for a refreshing meal.

Light and fruity, this Strawberry Sour is a burst of summer in every glass. Try serving it in a mason jar with a striped straw for a fun, picnic-ready presentation.

Peach Sour

Peach sour is the refreshing drink you didn’t know you needed this summer. Perfect for sipping on a hot day, it’s a sweet and tangy blend that’ll have you coming back for more.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe peaches, peeled and diced (frozen works too)
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3 lemons)
• 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup cold water
• Ice cubes (for serving)
• Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. In a blender, combine the diced peaches, lemon juice, simple syrup, and cold water.
2. Blend on high speed for about 30 seconds, or until the mixture is smooth.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher to remove any pulp, pressing down with a spoon to extract all the liquid.
4. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the peach sour over the ice.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired, and serve immediately.

Unbelievably easy to make, this peach sour is a burst of summer in every sip. The smooth texture and balance of sweet and sour make it a hit at any gathering, or just for treating yourself on a lazy afternoon.

Apple Sour

Ready to mix up something refreshing? You’re going to love this Apple Sour, a crisp, tangy drink that’s perfect for sipping on a warm day. It’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups apple juice (chilled for best results)
• 1/2 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed adds a bright flavor)
• 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• Ice cubes (enough to fill your glass)
• Apple slices (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes to chill your drink effectively.
2. Pour 2 cups of apple juice into the shaker for the base of your drink.
3. Add 1/2 cup of lemon juice to introduce a tangy kick.
4. Measure 1/4 cup of simple syrup and add it to the shaker; this balances the tartness.
5. Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to mix and chill the ingredients thoroughly.
6. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice cubes to keep it cold without diluting the flavor.
7. Garnish with a few apple slices on the rim or floating in the drink for a decorative touch.

Just like that, you’ve got a drink that’s both sweet and sour, with a refreshing crispness that’s hard to resist. Try serving it at your next brunch or as a cool-down treat after a long day.

Conclusion

There you have it—18 refreshing sour cocktail recipes to spice up your summer! Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just chilling on the patio, these drinks are sure to impress. Don’t forget to try them out, leave a comment with your favorite, and share the love on Pinterest. Cheers to a deliciously tangy summer!