Stone Sour

The Stone Sour's origin and the meaning behind its name are unclear, much like the history of many pre-Prohibition cocktails. It appears to have first been mentioned in "The Ideal Bartender." In 1917, bartender Tom Bullock, the author of that book, became the first Black American to publish a cocktail recipe book. Instead of using whiskey in his Stone Sour recipe, he used Old Tom gin, which is darker and sweeter than the more common London dry style and has only recently become popular again. According to cocktail historian David Wondrich, the Stone Sour may even be the first Gin Gimlet variation to be published.

Discover the Stone Sour Cocktail: A Refreshing Twist on the Whiskey Sour

The Stone Sour cocktail is a delightful variation of the classic Whiskey Sour, enhanced with the vibrant addition of fresh orange juice. This unique combination results in a refreshing drink that balances sweetness and tartness, making it an appealing choice for cocktail enthusiasts.

The Essence of the Stone Sour

At its core, the Stone Sour transforms the traditional Whiskey Sour by introducing orange juice, which adds a layer of complexity. Unlike the more commonly used lemon or lime juices, orange juice can be tricky to incorporate into cocktails due to its sweetness. However, in the Stone Sour, it shines brightly, especially when freshly squeezed. For the best results, avoid using pasteurized or concentrated orange juice; the freshness truly makes a difference.

The addition of orange juice not only enhances the drink's flavor profile but also lightens its overall character, making it even more enjoyable than a typical sour cocktail. Given the increased volume of juice, it's advisable to opt for a higher-proof bourbon—aim for something around 100-proof to maintain the drink’s boldness.

Variations on the Stone Sour

If you're a fan of the classic whiskey-based Stone Sour, consider experimenting with other spirits. An Old Tom gin can provide a delightful twist, or you might enjoy an Amaretto Stone Sour, which offers a sweeter, more nutty flavor profile.

The Stone Sour vs. California Sour: A Historical Note

The Stone Sour is also known as the California Sour, which is interesting. Renowned cocktail historian Dale DeGroff, in his book The Craft of the Cocktail, suggests that the two names refer to the same drink, originating from California. However, this is somewhat ambiguous, as the cocktail’s creator, Jerry Bullock, did not seem to have any ties to California. Regardless of its name, the Stone Sour saw a decline in popularity during Prohibition and experienced a brief resurgence in the 1990s, only to fade again during the Cocktail Renaissance. While not as ubiquitous today, it retains a loyal following among cocktail aficionados.

Ingredients for the Perfect Stone Sour

To craft a Stone Sour cocktail at home, gather the following ingredients:

1 1/2 ounces bourbon (such as Wild Turkey 101)
1 ounce freshly squeezed orange juice
3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
3/4 ounce simple syrup
Garnish: cherry and orange half-wheel

How to Make a Stone Sour Cocktail

Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients and a cocktail shaker.
Mix the Cocktail: Add the bourbon, freshly squeezed orange juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup into the shaker filled with ice. Shake well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
Strain and Serve: Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
Garnish: Finish your drink with a cherry and an orange half-wheel for a beautiful presentation.

Conclusion

The Stone Sour is a refreshing cocktail that combines the familiar warmth of bourbon with the bright flavors of orange and lemon. Its unique twist on the classic Whiskey Sour makes it a great choice for both casual gatherings and sophisticated soirées. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a cocktail collection, the Stone Sour is sure to please a variety of palates.

So, gather your ingredients, shake up this delightful drink, and toast to the legacy of the Stone Sour cocktail!