CONTINENTAL SOUR
This sophisticated Continental Sour is a versatile classic from 1917 that allows you to customize the base with whiskey, brandy, or gin to suit your palate. The bright acidity of fresh lemon juice is expertly balanced by sugar dissolved in water, creating a refreshing foundation that highlights the chosen spirit. Finished with a distinctive dash of Claret for a touch of elegance and color, this cocktail offers a delightful balance of sweet, tart, and dry flavors perfect for a refined evening sip.
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup Shaved ice (Quantity estimated for filling a bar glass 2/3 full.)
- 1 teaspoon Superfine sugar (Bar sugar) (Originally 'Bar Sugar'.)
- 1 tablespoon Water (Quantity estimated for 'little Water' to dissolve sugar.)
- 1/2 lemon Lemon juice (Juice of 1/2 lemon.)
- 1.5 ounces Whiskey, Brandy, or Gin (Originally '1 jigger'. Converted to modern measurement (1 jigger = 1.5 fl oz).)
- 1 dash Claret (Red wine) (Use a dry red wine like Bordeaux or Cabernet Sauvignon.)
Instructions
- 1In a cocktail shaker or large bar glass, dissolve the superfine sugar in the water.
- 2Add the lemon juice and your choice of whiskey, brandy, or gin to the dissolved sugar mixture.
- 3Add the shaved ice to the shaker until about 2/3 full. Shake vigorously until well-chilled, then strain into a sour glass.
- 4Top with a dash of Claret (red wine) and serve immediately.