A Tequila Sour puts a Mexican twist on the classic whiskey sour cocktail.
The bright citrus flavors blend with the earthy notes of tequila to create a refreshing drink.
This simple recipe needs just four basic ingredients: tequila, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and an egg white for a silky texture.
The drink gained attention in bars across Mexico and the United States during the 1970s.
Its smooth taste and balanced mix of sweet and sour make it perfect for happy hour or weekend parties.
People love this cocktail because it works well in any season.
The light and zesty flavors shine during summer barbecues, while the warming tequila base fits right in at winter gatherings.
Tequila Sour Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Hawthorne strainer
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Citrus juicer
- Cocktail glass
- Ice
Ingredients
- 2 oz silver tequila
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 3/4 oz simple syrup
- 1 egg white optional
- Ice for shaking
- Lime wheel or orange slice for garnish
- 2-3 drops Angostura bitters for garnish
Instructions
- If you use egg white, add it to the shaker first.
- Dry shake (without ice) for 10-15 seconds.
- Add tequila, lemon juice, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice.
- Shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds.
- Double strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass using both the Hawthorne and fine-mesh strainers.
- Add 2-3 drops of Angostura bitters on top of the foam.
- Garnish with a lime wheel or orange slice.
Notes
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Tasting Notes
The Tequila Sour brings bright citrus notes that dance on the tongue.
Fresh lime juice adds a sharp, zingy character while simple syrup balances the drink with gentle sweetness.
A subtle vanilla and oak flavor comes through from the aged tequila base.
The egg white creates a smooth, silky texture and adds a rich mouthfeel.
The cocktail starts crisp and tart, then mellows into a balanced blend of sweet and sour.
Light agave notes peek through in the middle, followed by a clean finish.
Dominant Flavors:
- Bright citrus
- Smooth vanilla
- Gentle sweetness
- Light agave
The aroma carries fresh lime with hints of cooked agave.
A delicate foam top from the egg white adds visual appeal and a creamy texture.
Substitute
You can adapt the classic Tequila Sour recipe with different ingredients when needed.
Mezcal makes an excellent replacement for tequila and adds a smoky note to the cocktail.
For a non-alcoholic version, use 2 ounces of grapefruit juice mixed with lime juice and a dash of agave syrup.
This creates a similar tart and sweet profile.
You can replace the egg white with 1 ounce of aquafaba (chickpea liquid).
This plant-based option creates the same foamy texture and silky mouthfeel.
Fresh lime juice is best, but bottled lime juice works in a pinch.
Use 100% real lime juice rather than lime-flavored products.
Simple Syrup Alternatives:
- Agave nectar
- Honey syrup
- Maple syrup
- Date syrup
Citrus Options:
- Lemon juice
- Grapefruit juice
- Orange juice + lime juice mix
You can use a dash of orange bitters instead of Angostura bitters.
Some bartenders skip the bitters entirely and still create a tasty drink.