About the Amaretto Sour cocktail

The Amaretto Sour first rose to popularity in the 1970s, when amaretto liqueur surged in demand worldwide.

Early versions were little more than amaretto poured over sour mix, giving the drink a reputation for being overly sweet.

But in recent decades, bartenders have refined the recipe—most famously Jeffrey Morgenthaler in 2012—by adding bourbon, fresh citrus, and egg white.

The result is a cocktail that balances the almond sweetness of amaretto with whiskey’s backbone and lemon’s tartness, turning a once-dismissed drink into a modern classic.

What Makes the Amaretto Sour Cocktail Special

The Amaretto Sour is special because it bridges nostalgia with craft cocktail technique.

It delivers the unmistakable almond flavor of amaretto while balancing it with tart lemon and a richer, more complex structure when bourbon is added.

Whether you’re sipping the classic sweet version or the updated craft style, the Amaretto Sour is a versatile cocktail that can appeal to a wide range of palates.

Spirit Swaps and Food Pairings

• Swaps: Stick with a traditional version (just amaretto and lemon) for simplicity, or follow modern recipes that add bourbon for depth.

  • Lime juice can be swapped for lemon for a slightly sharper edge.

• Pairings: The Amaretto Sour pairs beautifully with Italian desserts like biscotti or tiramisu, roasted nuts, or savory appetizers like charcuterie and cheese boards.

  • Its balance of sweet and tart also makes it a great partner for fried foods.

Closing Thoughts

The Amaretto Sour proves that even cocktails with kitschy reputations can evolve into refined modern classics.

With its balance of almond sweetness, whiskey depth, and citrus brightness, it’s a drink that feels both nostalgic and fresh.