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The Whisky Sour and Old Fashioned are the titans of whisky cocktails. Whether you’re a seasoned whisky lover or a curious newcomer, you’ve likely sipped on both. But which one reigns supreme?
Dive into our guide as we break down the origins, ingredients, flavours, and serving styles of these iconic drinks. Whisky Sour vs. Old Fashioned—let’s see who comes out on top!
The Old Fashioned is the OG cocktail, dating back to the 19th century. With its timeless mix of whisky, sugar, water, and bitters, it’s a classic that’s hard to beat—even with countless variations over the years.
A few decades later, the Whisky Sour burst onto the scene, offering a zesty alternative to the richer Old Fashioned. Its blend of whisky, lemon juice, and sugar syrup quickly won over those craving a lighter, tangier sip.
Both are stirred, served over ice, and garnished with citrus peel. But despite their similarities, these two cocktails have some distinct differences.
Whisky, bitters, and sugar—that’s all you need to craft the perfect Old Fashioned. Start by muddling a sugar cube with bitters, then add whisky for a smooth blend of sweetness and depth. Want to switch it up? Try syrup, honey, or even maple for a unique twist. We love using brown cane sugar to highlight rich caramel and toffee notes.
Choosing the right whisky is crucial. Each type brings its own vibe—from spiced rye to sweet bourbon. For a smooth, honeyed finish, scotch is the go-to. Our top pick? Ballantine’s 7 American Barrel for its perfectly balanced flavor.
Making an Old Fashioned is simple: grab a glass, add ice, pour in the whisky, and stir for a few minutes. Want it extra chilled? Just add more ice. Enjoy this timeless favourite—a bold mix of whisky, sweetness, and a hint of bitterness.
A Whisky Sour blends Ballantine’s Finest with fresh lemon juice and sugar syrup for a drink that’s tangy yet smooth. The process is simple but crucial for nailing that perfect balance. Shake the ingredients with ice until well-chilled, then strain into a glass. The shaking creates a slight froth on top, giving the drink its signature texture.
For an extra touch, the classic recipe includes egg white for a creamy, silky finish. Trust us—it elevates your Whisky Sour. Prefer a vegan option? Aquafaba does the trick just as well.
The Old Fashioned’s whisky base is all about those warming, lightly spiced notes balanced by a few drops of aromatic bitters. The sugar adds just enough sweetness to complement the spirit without overpowering its rich character, creating a robust, smooth cocktail that’s all about that whisky.
The Whisky Sour offers a completely different flavour profile that’s lighter in taste. Fresh lemon juice brings a sharp, zesty tang that cuts through the whisky’s sweetness. The sugar syrup balances out any tartness and the egg white foam keeps things super silky smooth. It’s the kind of cocktail that’s both refreshing and easy to drink, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a bit of citrus punch in their cocktails.
Both the Whisky Sour and Old Fashioned are traditionally served in a short tumbler glass. However the difference comes in the ice. An Old Fashioned is usually poured over a large ice cube that melts slowly to keep the drink cold without diluting it too quickly. Whilst the Whisky Sour is shaken with ice before straining into the glass.
Both cocktails are often garnished with a twist of citrus peel to enhance those tangy aromas with each sip. Whisky Sour is usually lemon, whereas Old Fashioned is often orange. But both are interchangeable to whichever you prefer.
Upgrade a Negroni by swapping out Gin for our Ballantine’s 12 Year Old Whisky and mix up the Boulevardier. Our favourite kind of remix
MAKE IT
Our favourite way to enjoy an Old Fashioned is with Ballantine’s 7 Bourbon Barrel Finish, with a couple of dashes of orange bitters to complement the sweet notes of the whisky.
MAKE ITWhen it comes to potency, the Old Fashioned generally packs more of a punch. This is because it’s mostly whisky, with just a touch of sugar and bitters to complement the spirit. The Whisky Sour, with its addition of lemon juice and sugar syrup, tends to be lighter and more refreshing.
The Old Fashioned and Whisky Sour have been around for centuries. So naturally people have set about creating their own variations. Many you’ll find on cocktail menus in bars today.
They can be as simple as swapping a Whisky Sour’s lemon juice for lime. Or upping the fruity flavour in a Passion Fruit Whisky Sour or bold Cherry Whisky Sour mix. When it comes to the Old Fashioned, it’s all about how you want to mix up that classic Whisky and Bitters. Make it hot, add a touch of maple or give it an autumnal spin with our Apple Cider Old Fashioned recipe.
Get more inspiration for Whisky Sour variations and Old Fashioned variations and have fun finding your favourite.
Whether you prefer the rich, smooth depth of an Old Fashioned or the tangy, refreshing zest of a Whisky Sour, both cocktails are a definite winner. The Old Fashioned is a timeless classic, perfect for those who appreciate the pure taste of whisky. The citrusy kick of a Whisky Sour offers something lighter, great for those entering the whisky world.
Put a spin on more of your favourite cocktails with our Negroni variations and twists on a Moscow Mule.
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