What two ingredients form the base of a whiskey sour?

The foundation of a whiskey sour is whiskey and lemon juice. This classic cocktail traditionally combines these two ingredients, creating a balanced flavor profile that highlights the complexity of the whiskey while the lemon juice adds a refreshing acidity that brightens the drink.

The whiskey provides the core spirit, imparting its rich character—whether it’s bourbon, rye, or another type of whiskey. The lemon juice acts not only to counterbalance the sweetness and warmth of the whiskey but also enhances the overall taste experience by adding a tartness that rounds out the cocktail.

In the context of mixing drinks, understanding the interaction between the primary spirit and the sour element is crucial, as it lays the groundwork for many variations of sour cocktails, highlighting the versatility of whiskey as a base spirit.