A True Amaretto Sour
A True Amaretto Sour is a delightful twist on the classic cocktail, combining the rich, nutty flavors of amaretto liqueur with fresh lemon juice for a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Often garnished with a cherry and a slice of orange, this refreshing drink offers a smooth, velvety texture that makes it an irresistible choice for any occasion. Enjoy it over ice for a sophisticated yet approachable treat.
Ingredients
- 1 jiggerAmaretto
- Juice of 1/2Lemon
- Ice
- Maraschino cherry
Pairs Well With
- Almond-crusted shrimp
- Marzipan and chocolate confections
- Italian butter cookies
- Hazelnut and almond biscotti
Preparation
Rub the rim of an old fashioned glass with lemon, and dip repeatedly into granulated sugar until it has a good "frosted" rim. Shake a jigger of Amaretto with the juice of 1/2 a lemon. Strain into glass and add ice. Garnish with a Marachino Cherry.
Best Enjoyed
Pro Tips
Use premium amaretto from Italy rather than mass-produced alternatives
ensure your egg white is fresh if using the traditional sour method
shake vigorously with ice for proper dilution
strain carefully for a smooth texture
History & Origins
The True Amaretto Sour represents a refined approach to the popular Amaretto Sour category, emphasizing quality ingredients and proper technique. This drink likely emerged as craft bartenders sought to elevate the sometimes overly-sweet Amaretto Sour tradition into something more sophisticated. It has become a favorite among those seeking a balance between the approachable sweetness of amaretto and the tartness of premium sour ingredients.
Variations
The Almond Dream
A version made with stone fruit liqueurs alongside amaretto
Amaretto Perfected
A variation using orgeat syrup for deeper almond flavor
The Italian Sour
A coffee-infused amaretto sour for afternoon enjoyment
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