Citric Acid Free New York Sour
This classic cocktail gets a dramatic makeover with a deep crimson float of dry red wine layered over a silky, frothy whiskey sour base — and it looks every bit as stunning as it tastes. The rye brings a spicy, bold backbone that pairs beautifully with the brightness of fresh lemon juice and the gentle sweetness of simple syrup. A dry red like Malbec or Shiraz is the move here, adding earthy, fruit-forward depth without overwhelming the drink. The pasteurized egg white is the secret weapon — shaken hard without ice first, it creates that gorgeous foam crown that makes the wine float look so clean and defined. Navigating cocktails when citric acid is a concern can be tricky since many commercial sour mixes and pre-made cocktail bases sneak it in as a preservative, but this recipe keeps things straightforward with fresh-squeezed lemon juice and nothing artificial. The slow pour over the back of a spoon to achieve that two-tone effect is genuinely satisfying to pull off, and the result is a showstopper worth every second of the shake.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
1 serving
- 2 oz rye whiskey
- ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
- ¾ oz simple syrup
- 1 pasteurized egg white
- 1 oz dry red wine (such as malbec or shiraz)
For serving
- 1 luxardo maraschino cherry, for garnish (optional)
Can be omittedmaraschino cherry
- 1 lemon half-wheel or twist, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the rye whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and pasteurized egg white in a cocktail shaker without ice. Seal and shake vigorously for 15 seconds, until the mixture is frothy and slightly opaque.
- 2
Add a large handful of ice to the shaker. Seal and shake again for 10–12 seconds, until the outside of the shaker is very cold to the touch.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!