Peach Whiskey Sour Recipe

Peach Whiskey Sour Recipe

This refreshing cocktail blends the smoothness of whiskey with the fruity sweetness of peach schnapps, perfectly balanced by a splash of lemon juice and simple syrup. Its easy to prepare and makes for a great drink to enjoy at any time.

Ingredients

  • Ice, as needed
  • 1 1/2 fluid ounces whiskey
  • 1 1/2 fluid ounces peach schnapps
  • 1/2 fluid ounces simple syrup
  • 1 lemon

Directions

Start by adding ice into a cocktail shaker. Pour in the whiskey, peach schnapps, and simple syrup. Cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice of one half into the shaker. Secure the lid on the shaker, and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds, until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty. Strain and pour the drink into a glass, and its ready to serve!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Amount % Daily Value*
Calories 490
Total Fat 2g 3%
Saturated Fat 0g 2%
Cholesterol 0mg 0%
Sodium 19mg 1%
Total Carbohydrate 104g 38%
Dietary Fiber 22g 79%
Total Sugars 51g
Protein 9g 17%
Vitamin C 428mg 476%
Calcium 203mg 16%
Iron 5mg 26%
Potassium 1293mg 28%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

The Story Behind the Peach Whiskey Sour

The Peach Whiskey Sour is a modern twist on the classic Whiskey Sour, a cocktail that dates back to the mid-19th century. The original Whiskey Sour, made with whiskey, lemon juice, and sugar, became popular in the United States as a simple, balanced drink that combined sweetness with the tartness of citrus. The peach variant emerged much later, inspired by the American love for fruit-flavored spirits and the popularity of peach schnapps in the late 20th century. Adding peach schnapps not only introduces a fragrant sweetness but also creates a refreshing variation ideal for warm weather or summer gatherings.

Regional Characteristics

The Peach Whiskey Sour is particularly popular in the southern United States, where peaches are a key agricultural product and often featured in desserts and beverages. Southern bartenders favor fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and the use of ripe peaches or peach-infused spirits reflects this regional approach. In contrast to northern or urban adaptations that might use commercial syrups or pre-made mixers, southern versions often emphasize the freshness and natural aroma of the fruit, making each cocktail slightly unique depending on the season and location.

Differences from Similar Drinks

While it shares similarities with the classic Whiskey Sour, the Peach Whiskey Sour is distinct due to its use of peach schnapps. Unlike a traditional Whiskey Sour that relies solely on the balance between whiskey, lemon, and sugar, this version introduces an extra layer of fruity sweetness. It differs from a Peach Bourbon Smash or a Peach Mule, which often include muddled peaches, soda, or ginger beer. The Peach Whiskey Sour maintains the simple shaken format, keeping the drink smooth, lightly tart, and fruit-forward without additional muddling or carbonation.

Where Its Typically Served

This cocktail is often featured in cocktail lounges, summer patios, and casual bars, particularly in regions known for peach production. Its also a popular choice at home parties or backyard gatherings due to its easy preparation and approachable flavor. The Peach Whiskey Sour pairs well with grilled foods, light appetizers, and fruity desserts, making it versatile for both relaxed evenings and celebratory occasions.

Interesting Facts

  • The Whiskey Sour was one of the first cocktails to be documented in a published drink guide in the 1860s, and its peach adaptation has been embraced in modern mixology competitions.
  • Peach schnapps, originally produced in Germany, became a global favorite in the 1980s, influencing many fruit-forward cocktails like the Peach Whiskey Sour.
  • Despite its sweetness, the cocktail retains the classic sour balance thanks to the fresh lemon juice, making it a favorite for those who enjoy both tart and sweet flavors.
  • Some variations include a garnish of peach slices or a cherry, adding visual appeal and enhancing the aromatic experience of the drink.
  • Its simple ingredient list allows bartenders to experiment with different whiskeys, from bourbon to rye, giving each Peach Whiskey Sour a slightly unique character.

FAQ about Peach Whiskey Sour Recipe

Peach Whiskey Sour is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, it's recommended to store the drink in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, the flavor may slightly degrade over time due to the citrus and alcohol components. It's not recommended to freeze the drink as it may alter the texture of the ingredients.

Yes, you can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of simple syrup. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add more syrup, or reduce it if you want a less sweet cocktail. Keep in mind that the peach schnapps already adds a bit of sweetness.

Yes, you can substitute peach schnapps with other fruit liqueurs, such as apricot brandy or a different fruit-flavored schnapps. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, try using peach nectar or peach syrup as a substitute, although the flavor and alcohol content will differ.

Simple syrup should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to a month. If you'd like to preserve it longer, you can boil the syrup for a few extra minutes to increase its shelf life.

While the cocktail is best enjoyed immediately after preparation, you can batch the ingredients (whiskey, peach schnapps, simple syrup, and lemon juice) and store them in the fridge until ready to serve. Just shake with ice right before serving to get that refreshing chilled effect.

A smooth, medium-bodied whiskey works best for a balanced flavor. Bourbon is a common choice for Whiskey Sour variations, but you can also use rye whiskey or even a lighter Irish whiskey, depending on your preference.

Yes, you can scale up the recipe for larger servings. For every 1 serving, use 1.5 ounces of whiskey, 1.5 ounces of peach schnapps, 0.5 ounces of simple syrup, and the juice of 1 lemon. Multiply these amounts based on the number of servings needed, but be sure to shake in batches if you're making a large quantity.

While fresh lemon juice is recommended for its bright and fresh flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute in a pinch. However, it may not provide the same vibrant taste and acidity as freshly squeezed lemon juice.

A traditional garnish for a Whiskey Sour is a maraschino cherry or a lemon twist. For a Peach Whiskey Sour, you could also garnish with a slice of peach or a sprig of mint for a more aromatic touch.