The Bacon Whiskey Sour blends bright citrus with rich, smoky notes for a cocktail that surprises with every sip. This riff on a classic whiskey sour layers bourbon and rye with lemon juice, a rich sugar syrup and a hint of bacon fat wash to deliver savory depth. You will find options for foaming without eggs and a saline touch for balance if desired. Savour the combination of texture, acidity and smoky umami while you read the recipe and technique.
What ingredients do you need for a Bacon Whiskey Sour?
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The foundation requires two whiskeys: a full-bodied bourbon and a spicy rye. Fresh lemon juice brings acidity while rich sugar syrup smooths the edges. A bacon fat wash and a small amount of saline create the savory backbone that defines this version.
Below is an organized ingredient table for quick reference. Measurements use millilitres and common alternatives are noted so you can adapt based on what you have on hand.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bourbon whiskey | 50 ml | Base spirit for roundness |
| Straight rye whiskey | 22.5 ml | 100 proof (50% alc./vol.) for spice |
| Lemon juice (fresh) | 22.5 ml | Essential for bright acidity |
| Rich sugar syrup | 15 ml | 2:1 sugar to water |
| Foam agent | 6 dashes | Egg white alternative or cocktail foamer |
| Fee Brothers Bacon Fat Wash | 5 dashes | Provides smoky, savory character |
| Saline solution | 4 drops | Optional, 20g salt to 80g water |
If vous prefer a vegan or allergen-free foam, choose a plant-based foamer. You may omit the saline if you prefer a cleaner citrus profile.
How do you prepare this cocktail?
Begin by selecting an old-fashioned glass and chilling it briefly in the freezer. Prepare a lemon twist for garnish by cutting a long strip of zest and setting it aside. Have your ice ready and measure the spirits and syrups precisely before starting.
Combine the bourbon, rye, lemon juice, rich syrup, foam agent, bacon fat wash and saline in a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously until the shaker feels cold and the foam develops a creamy texture. Strain the mixture into the chilled old-fashioned glass over fresh ice to preserve the foam and aroma.
Express the lemon zest over the drink to release its oils and then lay the twist across the foam as garnish. Serve immediately so the contrast between the bright citrus and smoky fat wash remains pronounced.
What does the Bacon Whiskey Sour taste like and how strong is it?
This cocktail balances citrus tartness with sweet syrup and a savory, smoky finish from the bacon fat wash. The egg white alternative or foamer creates a silkiness that rounds the mouthfeel and amplifies aromatics. Expect a drink that feels dry-sour at the finish yet offers underlying sweet and umami notes.
Key technical metrics for one serving are 226 calories, approximately 1.9 standard drinks, and about 21.9% alc./vol. (43.7° proof). The drink contains roughly 26.6 grams of pure alcohol. Useful tasting notes and pairings include:
- Flavor highlights: citrus, smoky bacon, vanilla from bourbon
- Good food matches: charcuterie, smoked cheddar, grilled vegetables
Are there allergens or special considerations?
The bacon fat wash introduces meat-based ingredients, so this recipe is not suitable for vegetarians or those avoiding pork. The foaming agent may contain egg depending on the product used, so confirm label details if allergies are a concern.
For safer alternatives, substitute a commercial vegan foamer or aquafaba to achieve the same silky head. Keep the saline optional and use it sparingly when you want to enhance mouthfeel without changing the cocktail’s character.
Where did this version of the drink originate?
This preparation draws on a modern cocktailist’s experiments with savory elements in classic formats. The specific recipe was adapted from a creation credited to Brandon Pinkins of The Cocktail Lab in Rochester, New York, in 2026. His approach showcased how a bacon fat wash can transform a familiar sour into something more layered.
Mixologists have since adapted the idea with different smoking techniques, fat washes and foam alternatives. Use the measurements and method above as a template and feel free to tweak the balance until the drink reflects your preferred mix of sweet, sour and savory.
Andrew Cole focuses on everyday drinks, from warm comfort beverages to refreshing options. His writing emphasizes balance, clarity, and ease of preparation.
