Cocktail College Techniques: Sours
Apr 6, 2023
Mike Lay, beverage director for the MINA group in Las Vegas and a two-time James Beard semi-finalist, joins to dive into the fascinating realm of sour cocktails. He discusses the balance of flavors in these classic drinks, emphasizing the evolution of recipes and the art of mixing. Lay shares insights on incorporating egg whites and modern alternatives for texture, while highlighting the importance of freshness in ingredients. Listeners will also enjoy exploring the impact of creativity on traditional sours and the growing popularity of agave spirits.
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Basic Sour Ratios
- Start with a base ratio, like 2 oz spirit, .75 oz lemon juice, .75 oz sweetener.
- Adjust citrus and sweetener based on ingredients like pineapple juice or maple syrup.
Sour Template Versatility
- The sour cocktail template provides a foundation for countless variations.
- Learning one sour recipe effectively teaches hundreds due to ingredient adaptability.
Egg Whites in Sours
- Classic sours, like the whiskey sour and pisco sour, traditionally include egg white.
- The egg white contributes to the texture and mouthfeel of the drink, making it a key component of a traditional sour.