Watermelon Whiskey Sour Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

how to make a Watermelon Whiskey Sour recipe

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Whisky
Alcohol 14%
Calories 180 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 18g
Prep time 3 minutes

Imagine the ultimate refreshment on a warm afternoon, the kind of drink that dances on your taste buds and leaves you wanting more. That’s the Watermelon Whiskey Sour, a cocktail that’s as fun to sip as it is to say. We’ll dive into its tangy flavors, rich history, and how to craft the perfect one for your next gathering. Ready to become a Watermelon Whiskey Sour connoisseur? Let’s shake things up together! ⬇️

History

The Watermelon Whiskey Sour is a modern twist on the classic Whiskey Sour, which dates back to the 1870s. It combines the timeless appeal of whiskey with the summery sweetness of watermelon. This drink captures the spirit of innovation that has always been at the heart of mixology.

  • The “sour” in the name comes from the lemon juice, a staple in sours.
  • Originally, sours were enjoyed by sailors to prevent scurvy and to make their rum rations more palatable.
  • The addition of watermelon is a recent trend, reflecting our love for fruity variations of classic cocktails.

The taste of a Watermelon Whiskey Sour?

A Watermelon Whiskey Sour is a delightful balance of sweet and tart. Juicy watermelon and tangy lemon juice blend beautifully with the warm, oaky notes of whiskey.

I cherish the Watermelon Whiskey Sour for its ability to transport me to a breezy summer evening with just one sip. It’s a vibrant celebration in a glass.

Interesting facts about Watermelon Whiskey Sour

  • The Watermelon Whiskey Sour is as much a visual treat as it is a taste sensation, known for its captivating pink hue.
  • Its popularity soars during the summer but don’t be fooled—it’s enjoyed by enthusiasts year-round.
  • Some mixologists use smoked watermelon to give the cocktail a unique, smoky twist.

Ingredients 📃

  • Whiskey: 2 oz (60ml)
  • Watermelon Juice: 1 oz (30ml)
  • Fresh Lemon Juice: 0.5 oz (15ml)
  • Simple Syrup: 0.5 oz (15ml)
  • Ice Cubes: As needed

Old Fashioned glasses are ideal for serving a Watermelon Whiskey Sour. Their wide brim allows the aroma of the cocktail to enhance the drinking experience. Alternatively, a Mason jar can add a rustic, casual touch to this refreshing drink.

Recipe. How to make Watermelon Whiskey Sour 🍹

  1. Fill a shaker with ice cubes.
  2. Combine whiskey, 1 oz of watermelon juice, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup in the shaker.
  3. Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
  4. Strain into an Old Fashioned glass filled with ice.
  5. Garnish with a slice of watermelon or a lemon twist.

While the Watermelon Whiskey Sour is a treat, it’s wise to sip smartly—cocktails can pack in sugar and calories. Opting for a natural sweetener or reducing the simple syrup can be kinder to your waistline. Plus, watermelon is hydrating and rich in vitamins!

Rate this recipe


Food Pairings

Certain foods have the power to elevate the Watermelon Whiskey Sour’s flavor profile to new heights. Here are a few pairings that will take your cocktail experience from great to unforgettable.

Grilled Chicken

The charred, smoky flavors of grilled chicken complement the fruity and slightly smoky notes of the Watermelon Whiskey Sour.

Spicy Appetizers

The sweetness of the watermelon juice can cool down the heat from spicy dishes, creating a pleasant balance with every bite and sip.

Summer Salads

A fresh summer salad with feta and arugula pairs wonderfully with the refreshing qualities of the cocktail, offering a contrast of flavors and textures.

The way the Watermelon Whiskey Sour’s flavors mingle and burst, it’s like a mini vacation for your mouth. I simply adore it!


🍸 Mix up your beverage routine
Receive the freshest cocktail recipes and bar trends directly in your inbox.
Please enter a valid email address
That address is already in use
The security code entered was incorrect
Thanks for signing up

Bartender Advice

  • Chill your glass ahead of time to keep the cocktail refreshingly cold.
  • Use freshly squeezed watermelon juice for the best flavor profile.
  • Balance is key—adjust the sweetness and sourness to your taste.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Watermelon Whiskey Sour, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.

What you could change in Watermelon Whiskey Sour

  • Use honey instead of simple syrup for a more natural sweetness.
  • Experiment with different types of whiskey to find your preferred flavor.
  • Add a splash of soda water for a fizzy twist.

Watermelon Whiskey Sour Variations

Smoked Watermelon Whiskey Sour

  • Ingredients: Include smoked watermelon juice and a pinch of smoked salt.
  • Recipe: Follow the standard recipe, adding the smoked elements for a unique twist.

Spicy Watermelon Whiskey Sour

  • Ingredients: Add a slice of jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
  • Recipe: Muddle the spicy ingredient with the whiskey before adding the rest.

Watermelon Whiskey Sour Slushie

  • Ingredients: Combine all ingredients in a blender with extra ice.
  • Recipe: Blend until smooth and serve in a chilled glass.

Skipping the whiskey doesn’t mean skipping the fun. A Virgin Watermelon Whiskey Sour blends watermelon juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice, garnished with mint for a refreshing non-alcoholic treat.

Q&A

Can I make a Watermelon Whiskey Sour without a shaker?

Absolutely! Just stir the ingredients well with ice in a glass, though shaking does give it that classic frothy top.

Is there a way to store leftover watermelon juice?

Yes, pour it into an airtight container and keep it in the fridge; it’ll stay fresh for a couple of days.

What’s the best whiskey to use for a Watermelon Whiskey Sour?

Most mixologists recommend a good bourbon for its sweet and full-bodied flavor, but feel free to experiment!

Can I make this cocktail in a pitcher for a party?

Sure thing! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of guests and mix in a large pitcher.

Is there a non-sugar sweetener that works well in this cocktail?

Yes, agave nectar or stevia can be great alternatives for a lower-calorie option.

How can I make my Watermelon Whiskey Sour look extra fancy?

A slice of watermelon on the rim or a sprig of mint can add a touch of elegance. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer is a seasoned mixology and cocktail recipe writer at CocktailPlans.com. Chris has a deep passion for cocktail creation and mixology, and has been exploring and writing about the world of drinks for over 5 years.

Mai Tai (Trader Vic’s)

The Mai Tai is a vibrant, tropical cocktail that combines the rich flavors of rum, tangy lime, and the subtle sweetness of almond and orange. It is a delightful and colorful drink that captures the essence of an island paradise in every sip.

Tartini

A Tartini cocktail is a zesty and tangy beverage that combines the sharpness of citrus with the smoothness of spirits, often garnished with a twist or a slice of fruit. It offers a delightful blend of flavors that awaken the palate with every sip.

Washington Apple

The Washington Apple is a crisp, fruity cocktail that blends the tartness of apple with the smooth warmth of whiskey. It is a harmonious mix that is both delightful and simple to enjoy.

Illusion

The Illusion cocktail is a vibrant, fruity concoction that dazzles with its blend of melon liqueur, vodka, and citrus flavors, creating a taste that's both exotic and delightful. It's a captivating beverage that offers a smooth, tropical experience with every sip.

Summer Passion

The Summer Passion cocktail is a vibrant, fruity blend that combines the sweetness of ripe summer fruits with a gentle touch of citrus zest. It's a smooth and refreshing concoction, perfect for sipping on a warm, sunny day.

Pomegranate French 75

The Pomegranate French 75 is an elegant and bubbly cocktail that blends the tartness of pomegranate with the smoothness of gin and the sparkle of champagne. It's a sophisticated twist on a classic that's both delightful to the palate and visually striking with its deep crimson hue.