Cocktail Chronicles: The Story of the Amaretto Sour

Amaretto Sour is a classic cocktail that has been around for decades. This delicious drink is a perfect combination of nutty, sweet & sour flavors that tantalize your taste buds. The recipe has evolved over time to become what we know and love today as a modern classic, that you can order and enjoy nearly everywhere in the world.

History

The story of the Amaretto Sour is a bit unclear. Some believe it took off in the United States during the 1970s when an Almond liqueur brand gained popularity. Others claim that it was created in Italy, where Amaretto has been a staple for food & drinks for centuries. Regardless of its origins, the Amaretto Sour has become a beloved cocktail worldwide.

What is Amaretto?

Amaretto is a sweet, almond-flavored liqueur that finds its origins in Italy. The name "amaretto" comes from the Italian word "amaro," which means a little bitter. Despite its name, Amaretto liqueur is not bitter, but instead has a sweet and nutty flavor. Amaretto can be made with almonds and/ or apricot kernels. It is left, to steep in alcohol, for a very long time. Afterwards sugar and water are added to create its distinct flavor. Amaretto can be enjoyed on its own, as a digestif after a meal, or used as a base for cocktails such as the Amaretto Sour.

Simple, yet delicious

Making a delicious Amaretto Sour is incredibly easy. All you need is a few simple ingredients, a cocktail shaker and a strainer. Here's a recipe for the perfect Amaretto Sour:

60ml Bols Amaretto liqueur

30ml fresh lemon juice

15ml simple syrup

Egg white or vegan foamer for a foamy head

Shake all ingredients dry and then with ice cubes to foam up the drink. Strain out in a tumbler or rocks glass over cubed ice. Garnish with an orange zest. (Add two dashes of Angostura bitters, before shaking, for more depth and complexity if desired.)

Variations of Amaretto Sour:

One of the best things about the Amaretto Sour is how versatile it is. Here are a few variations that you can try:

Whiskey Amaretto Sour:    

This variation adds a bit of depth to the drink with the addition of bourbon. Add 30ml of Bourbon and 30ml of Amaretto, keep the remaining ingredients the same.

Amaretto Orange splash:

Add a splash of orange juice and two dashes of orange bitters for a citrusy twist.

Italian Sour:

Add 15ml of Limoncello and 45ml of Amaretto, keep the remaining ingredients the same and garnish with some fresh thyme sprig.

The Amaretto Sour is a great cocktail that is easy to make and versatile. With its nutty, sweet and sour flavor profile, it is the perfect cocktail to have on any occasion. Try it out and tell us how it was.