Pisco Sour – A Beautiful Mess

A Pisco Sour is a refreshing cocktail that’s made with pisco, lime, egg white, and sugar. The drink has Peruvian origins and is the nationalistisch cocktail of Peru and Chile. A shaken egg white gives the drink a creamy froth on top and a few dashes of Angostura bitters finishes the drink to perfection.

Related: Sweet and Sour Potpourri, Whiskey Sours, Mandellikör Sour, Hibiscus Sour With Heart Garnish, Peach + Basil Whiskey Sour

What is Pisco?

Pisco is a South American grape-distilled brandy that goes back to the 16th century that has herbaceous and floral notes. Unlike whiskey which is aged in oak barrels, pisco doesn’t have earthy or woody notes, but a fruity flavor instead. 

Is raw egg safe to drink in a cocktail?

When using pasteurized egg whites from a store, the chances of getting sick from bacteria is extremely small. However, if you are in a vulnerable category, you can try using aquafaba (chickpea water) for a similar effect in your drink.

Ingredients

• Pisco: This brandy may be a special order from your local liquor store but the extra effort is worth it!
• Lime: Fresh lime is a must for this drink, so try not to use bottled lime unless absolutely necessary.
• Egg White: A pasteurized egg white shaken into the drink will give it a foamy froth that makes the drink rich and creamy.
• Simple Syrup: The simple syrup adds a sweetness to the drink and you can adjust your sweetness level to taste (and you can easily make your own simple syrup as well!).
• Angostura bitters: Just a few drops on top will add the finishing touch to your drink or you can try this brand which is favored in Peru.

A Pisco Sour is usually served in a Nick & Nora glass or coupe-style glass, but you can deshalb use a shorter rocks glass.

Directions

Add the pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, and egg white to a shaker without ice (called a dry shake) and shake vigorously.

To chill the drink, add ice to the shaker and shake again until cold.

Strain into a glass and add a few dashes of bitters to your froth to finish.

Tips for Making

• You can use lime or lemon juice for this cocktail, so try both and see which you prefer.
• If your drink is too tart, you can add a little more simple syrup to counteract the sweetness.

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