Ina Garten’s Famous Bourbon Sour Copycat Recipe

Ina Garten’s Bourbon Sour is a classic cocktail that balances smooth bourbon with bright citrus and just enough sweetness. Made with freshly squeezed lemon juice, lime juice, and homemade simple syrup, this refreshing drink is an elegant addition to dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or a relaxed evening at home.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

This bourbon sour is simple, refreshing, and perfectly balanced. The combination of lemon and lime adds a vibrant tartness, while simple syrup softens the flavors and bourbon provides warmth and depth. It’s an easy cocktail to prepare for guests and can be scaled up for entertaining.

What Is the Dish?

A bourbon sour is a variation of the classic sour cocktail family, a category of drinks built around three essential elements: a base spirit, citrus juice, and sweetener. The sour style dates back to the 19th century and includes famous cocktails such as the Whiskey Sour, which helped establish the balance of sweet, tart, and strong flavors that defines this group of drinks.

Ina Garten’s version uses both lemon and lime juice, creating a brighter citrus profile while keeping the smooth character of bourbon at the center. Fun fact: freshly squeezed citrus is one of the most important details in sour cocktails because bottled juices often lack the aroma and acidity needed to create the same crisp flavor. The addition of simple syrup also allows the sweetness to be adjusted, making homemade versions more balanced than many pre-mixed alternatives.

Cooking Tips

• Use freshly squeezed lemon and lime juice for the brightest flavor.
• Choose a bourbon you enjoy drinking since it is the main ingredient.
• Chill the cocktail thoroughly before serving for the smoothest texture.
• Make simple syrup ahead of time so it is completely cooled before mixing.
• Adjust the sweetness slightly depending on the bourbon and your preferred tartness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Bourbon Is Best for a Bourbon Sour?

A smooth, approachable bourbon works best. Choose a bottle you enjoy drinking on its own.

Can I Make Bourbon Sour Ahead of Time?

Yes. Mix the bourbon, citrus juices, and simple syrup ahead and chill until ready to shake and serve.

Can I Use Bottled Lemon or Lime Juice?

Fresh juice is recommended because it provides a brighter flavor, but bottled juice can work in a pinch.

What Is Simple Syrup?

Simple syrup is a mixture of equal parts sugar and water heated until the sugar dissolves. It sweetens cocktails without leaving undissolved sugar.

Can I Make This Cocktail Less Sweet?

Yes. Reduce the amount of simple syrup to suit your taste.

How to Store

Store leftover bourbon sour mixture (without ice or garnishes) in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Shake or stir well before serving. Add fresh ice and garnishes just before drinking.

How to Freeze

Freezing is not recommended for the finished cocktail because the citrus flavor and texture can change after thawing. For a colder drink, chill the ingredients thoroughly or freeze citrus juice into ice cubes.

Ingredients

For the Cocktail

• ½ cup good-quality bourbon
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 3 limes)
• ¼ cup simple syrupIce cubes
• Maraschino cherries, for garnish
• Lemon slices, for garnish

For the Simple Syrup

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup water

How to Make Ina Garten's Bourbon Sour

1. Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat, cool to room temperature, and chill.
2. In a pitcher or measuring cup, mix bourbon, lemon juice, lime juice, and simple syrup until combined.
3. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Pour in the bourbon mixture, cover, and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until well chilled.
4. Strain into rocks glasses or martini glasses, either straight up or over fresh ice.
5. Add a maraschino cherry and lemon slice before serving.