Ordinary Drink
Stone Sour
The Stone Sour is a refreshing cocktail that blends the tangy flavors of fresh orange juice and sweet and sour mix with a smooth base of whiskey, typically bourbon or rye. Garnished with a cherry or orange slice, this drink offers a delightful balance of citrusy brightness and rich warmth, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Its vibrant color and zesty taste make it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.
- tart
- fruity
- refreshing
- smooth
- Prep Time
- 5 min
- Glass
- Whiskey sour glass
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Yields
- 1 serving
Few ordinary drink recipes deliver tart and fruity quite like the Stone Sour. It leads with brandy and comes together in about 5 minutes. If you've searched for "brunch", this is the recipe to bookmark.
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Ingredients
- Serves
- 1 serving
- Glass
- Whiskey sour glass
- Prep
- 5 min
- 1 ozApricot brandy
- 1 ozOrange juice
- 1 ozSweet and sour
Method
Preparation
- 01
Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into a chilled whiskey sour glass, and serve.
Origin
History & Origins
The Stone Sour is a modern variation of the Whiskey Sour tradition, substituting bourbon or rye whiskey with an alternative spirit for contemporary interpretation. This cocktail represents the evolution of classic sour formats and bartenders' interest in creating balanced, approachable drinks. The Stone Sour exemplifies how foundational cocktail templates can be adapted with different spirits for new flavor profiles.
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Bartender’s Insight
Pro Tips
Use quality bourbon or rye whiskey as the primary spirit
From Arthur
fresh lemon juice is absolutely essential—never use bottled
simple syrup should be prepared fresh
egg white creates creamy texture and proper mouthfeel
shake vigorously with ice for proper aeration and chill
serve in a coupe glass
At the Table
Perfect Pairings
Beyond the Classic
Variations
Stone Sour with Rye
Features rye whiskey for spicier, more complex grain flavor
Smoky Stone Sour
uses peated or smoky whisky for depth and intensity
Spiced Stone Sour
incorporates spiced whiskey and bitters for warming, aromatic complexity
Questions
Frequently Asked
- The Stone Sour has a flavor profile that is tart, fruity, refreshing, smooth. It is crafted to balance these characteristics into a harmonious, satisfying drink that appeals to a wide range of palates.
- The Stone Sour is ideal for happy hours, brunch gatherings, cocktail parties. Its flavor profile and presentation make it a versatile choice that works equally well as a social cocktail or a relaxed evening drink.
- Yes, there are several ways to adapt a Stone Sour. If you cannot source Apricot brandy, look for a similar alternative that matches its flavor profile. Keep in mind that substitutions may alter the balance of the cocktail, so start with a smaller quantity and adjust to taste. The variations section above lists popular alternatives bartenders use.
- Some of the most popular Stone Sour variations include Stone Sour with Rye, Smoky Stone Sour, Spiced Stone Sour. Each variation puts a unique twist on the original recipe while retaining the essential character of the classic cocktail.
- The Stone Sour is traditionally served in a Whiskey sour glass. Using the right glassware is important because it affects the aroma, temperature retention, and overall drinking experience. If you do not have a Whiskey sour glass on hand, a similar shaped glass will work.
- Yes, a mocktail version of the Stone Sour is possible. Replace the base spirit with a non-alcoholic spirit alternative (there are many quality options available) and keep all other components the same. The result will capture much of the original's flavor profile while being suitable for guests who prefer alcohol-free options.
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New York Sour
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Similar Flavor Profiles
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The Tequila Sour is a refreshing cocktail that combines the vibrant flavors of tequila with the tartness of fresh lemon juice and a touch of simple syrup for sweetness. Often garnished with a slice of lemon or a cherry, this drink offers a delightful balance of citrus and spirit, making it a perfect choice for warm evenings or festive gatherings. Its smooth texture and zesty profile make it a beloved twist on the classic sour cocktail family.
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