Tart, sweet and refreshing, this zero proof cherry sour is all the best bits of a cocktail, without the booze.
Sours are up there with one of my favourite categories of cocktail. In general, the recipe is a combination of a base spirit, citrus and sweetener, plus or minus an egg white for that lovely foam on top. I've added zero proof to the name of this drink because at some point I'll create a boozy version as well!
The history of the sour
The history of sour cocktails is intricately tied to the evolution of mixed drinks and the art of cocktail making. One significant milestone in this journey was the publication of Jerry Thomas' How To Mix Drinks in 1862. Thomas, a pioneering bartender and mixologist, revolutionised the craft with his comprehensive guidebook. Within its pages, he included several recipes, emphasising the importance of balancing sweet, sour, and strong elements.
This publication served as a catalyst for the popularity of sour cocktails, as bartenders and enthusiasts alike embraced Thomas' techniques and experimented with variations. The Whiskey Sour, a timeless classic, became a staple in bars across the globe. Other sours like the Margarita, Sidecar, and Daiquiri soon followed suit, each with their unique twist on the sour formula. The Prohibition era further propelled the sour cocktail's rise, as bartenders sought to mask the taste of subpar spirits with the refreshing tang of citrus and sweetness. Today, sour cocktails continue to captivate cocktail lovers with their balanced flavours, providing a delightful and invigorating experience.
This zero proof cherry sour combines the refreshing, tart taste of cherry juice with lime and sugar syrup for balance. I prefer to serve this drink straight up, that is, without ice. Select a coupe or a Nick and Nora glass and you'll see this beautiful layer of foam floating atop the drink.
Watch the video here. If you make this one, don't forget to tag me on TikTok or Instagram. I love to see it!
Zero Proof Cherry Sour
Ingredients
- 60 mL sour cherry juice
- 30 mL lime juice
- 15 mL sugar syrup
- 30 mL egg white OR aqua faba
- 2 maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
- In the base of a cocktail shaker add cherry juice, lime juice, sugar syrup and eggwhite/aquafaba.
- Dry shake for 15 seconds before adding ice and shaking again to chill.
- Strain into coupe glass and garnish with a maraschino cherry on a cocktail pick
Looking for more zero proof drinks? Try my Thyme Tonic Rickey or Shirley Temple.
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