The Salted Honey Whiskey Sour is simple, but the small addition of salt changes the drink. It sharpens citrus, lengthens honey, and makes bourbon feel fuller without turning the cocktail savory.
Salted Honey Whiskey Sour
Prep time: 5 to 8 minutes (with prepared ingredients)
Glass
Coupe
Method
Shaken
Serves
1
Flavor Profile
Honey, lemon, light salinity
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 oz salted honey syrup
- 1 egg white or 3/4 oz aquafaba, optional
- Lemon peel
Method
- Add all ingredients to a shaker.
- Dry shake first if using egg white or aquafaba.
- Add ice and shake until chilled.
- Strain into a coupe or over one large cube.
- Garnish with lemon peel.
Bar Tools
- Cocktail shaker
- Strainer
Whiskey Scene Notes
The syrup should taste rounded, not salty. Use only a small pinch of fine sea salt.
Choosing the Whiskey
Choose a wheated bourbon for softness or a high-rye bourbon for more structure.
Technique Notes
Salt helps the honey read more clearly, but too much will flatten the lemon.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair with fried chicken, grilled peaches, goat cheese, lemon desserts, or salty snacks.
Variations
- Use smoked salt.
- Add ginger for heat.
- Replace bourbon with rye.
Hosting and Service
Serve up for a polished look or over ice for a relaxed format. This is a reliable house cocktail for The Cocktail Cabinet.
