Basic Cocktails: Sours

Sour cocktails are drinks with a sour (typically citrus) component, a sweet (simple syrup, triple sec, etc.), some type of liquor, and possibly other additions. But the first three will give you a sour. These drinks are excellent for learning how a small variation in ratios yields a very different result. Even a 1/4 ounce more or less will effect the final product. Here are three sours you can play with to make YOUR favorite version. The amounts I provide are starting points.


Margarita
2 oz silver/plata/white tequila.
1 oz triple sec
1/2 oz fresh lime juice
kosher salt in a small dish for garnish (optional)
lime wedge on rim so recipient can taste, and add the extra bit of lime juice or drink it as is.

• Squeeze lime juice, add to shaker, and use expelled lime to rim the outside of the glass(es) with juice.
• Rotate the limed glass into the salt or lightly touch it to the salt about 1/2 way around. 
• Add the remaining ingredients to the shaker with ice. 
• Shake vigorously and strain into the glass. Add ice to the glass if you want it on the rocks (I do). 
• Play "Tequila" while shaking 

Notes: you can sub out Cointreau for the triple sec. It will be sweeter unless  you reduce its volume. Reposado tequila will work but give you a very different taste.


Lemon Drop (thanks for reminding me how good these are, Sandy!)
2 oz citrus vodka such as Absolute Citron
1 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 ounce simple syrup (or 1 tablespoon confectioners sugar)
1 lemon wedge/wheel for garnish

• Shake and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. If using sugar, mix it with liquid ingredients before adding ice to help it dissolve. 
• Some like to rim the glass with confectioners sugar. I do not. Garnish with lemon wheel or wedge. 

Cosmopolitan
1 1/2 oz citrus vodka
1 oz triple sec
1/2 oz fresh lime juice
1/4 oz cranberry juice cocktail for color
lime wedge or wheel for garnish

• Shake with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Add garnish. 
• Play Sex and the City theme while shaking to complete the scene.