Lavender Whiskey Sour Recipe

The Lavender Whiskey Sour is a refined and modern take on the classic whiskey sour, incorporating the delicate, aromatic essence of lavender for a floral and herbal twist. This unique variation enhances the balance of sweet and sour with botanical complexity, creating a smooth, refreshing, and sophisticated cocktail. The floral lavender beautifully complements the whiskey’s warm, oaky depth, perfect for spring and summer gatherings, garden parties, or a relaxing evening drink.

The Origins of the Whiskey Sour

Dating back to the 19th century, the whiskey sour has long been a staple in cocktail history. It became one of the most beloved sour-style cocktails, traditionally made with whiskey, lemon juice, sugar, and sometimes egg white. Over time, bartenders have introduced infusions of fruits, herbs, and aromatics, paving the way for innovative variations like the Lavender Whiskey Sour.

Why Lavender Enhances This Cocktail

Lavender introduces subtle herbal sweetness that balances the tartness of the lemon juice. Its floral aroma softens the whiskey’s bold, oaky undertones, ensuring the drink remains smooth, complex, and not overly sweet. The addition of egg white (optional) creates a silky mouthfeel, elevating the cocktail’s texture with a frothy, luxurious finish.

The lavender simple syrup is the key ingredient that transforms this drink into a botanical-forward masterpiece. Lavender naturally pairs well with citrus, amplifying the brightness of the lemon juice while softening the whiskey’s edge. The result is an elegant yet approachable cocktail that appeals to both traditionalists and modern mixology enthusiasts.

Perfect for Any Occasion

With its light, floral, and citrus-forward profile, the Lavender Whiskey Sour is ideal for warm-weather sipping and can be easily adapted for any occasion. Serve it in a chilled coupe or rocks glass, garnished with a lavender sprig and a lemon wheel for a visually stunning presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Lavender Whiskey Sour

• Aromatic & Refreshing: The floral essence of lavender enhances the classic whiskey sour’s depth and complexity.
• Balanced Flavor: The interplay between sweet, sour, and herbal notes creates a cocktail that is both light and bold.
• Visually Stunning: The soft lavender hues and frothy texture make it as beautiful as it is delicious.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Elevate any cocktail hour with a drink that feels both sophisticated and effortless.

The Lavender Whiskey Sour is where classic cocktail tradition meets contemporary mixology, offering a refreshing floral twist on an old favorite. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party, enjoying a cozy night in, or simply looking to explore new whiskey-based drinks, this cocktail delivers a sophisticated yet approachable drinking experience. The beauty of this cocktail lies in its versatility – it works with bourbon, rye, or even Irish whiskey, letting you customize based on your preference. The lavender syrup can be made days in advance, making this an easy choice when entertaining, and the balanced flavor profile appeals to both cocktail enthusiasts and those just beginning to explore whiskey drinks.

Lavender Whiskey Sour

Recipe by Kyle Taylor

5.0 from 1 vote

Course: CocktailsCuisine: New AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Total time

20

minutes

The Lavender Whiskey Sour offers a floral variation on the classic cocktail, combining bold, oaky whiskey notes with the lively tang of lemon juice and the delicate sweetness of lavender syrup. It features a smooth, aromatic finish, with egg white for a frothy texture.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces whiskey

• 2 ounces lemon juice, freshly squeezed

• 1 ounce lavender simple syrup

• 1 egg white

• for the rim, granulated sugar

• For Lavender Simple Syrup

• 1 cup water

• 1 cup sugar

• 1/4 cup fresh lavender leaves, lightly crushed

Directions

• Make the Lavender Simple Syrup:
  Combine the water, sugar, and crushed lavender leaves in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer and stir until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let it steep for 15 minutes. Strain out the leaves and cool the syrup completely before using.
• Prepare the Sugared Rim:
  Rub a lemon wedge along the rim of your rocks glass to moisten it. Dip the rim into sugar on a small, coating it evenly.
• Prepare the Cocktail:
  Add whiskey, lemon juice, lavender simple syrup, and egg white (if using) to a shaker. Dry shake (shake without ice) to create froth. Add ice to the shaker and shake again until chilled.
• Serve:
  Strain into a rocks glass. Garnish with a lemon slice and lavender sprig for an aromatic touch.

SUGGESTED PAIRING: Whiskey Braised Pork Tenderloin with Mashed Sweet Potatoes

For the perfect pairing with a Lavender Whiskey Sour, try Whiskey Braised Pork Tenderloin with Mashed Sweet Potatoes. The rich, caramelized pork absorbs deep whiskey and herb-infused flavors, complementing the cocktail’s floral and citrusy notes. The creamy, subtly sweet mashed sweet potatoes balance the dish with a velvety texture that contrasts beautifully with the pork’s savory depth. Together, they create a bold-yet-balanced meal that enhances the whiskey’s warmth while letting the lavender shine.