Whisky Sour: The History and Recipe of the Classic Cocktail to Celebrate World Whisky Day

On the third Saturday of May, World Whisky Day is celebrated. The date is an opportunity to prepare the classic whisky sour, a cocktail that originated in Iquique, Chile, in 1872, by the hands of English sailor Elliot Stubb. The recipe is simple: whisky, lemon juice, and sugar.

Whisky Sour: a história e a receita do clássico coquetel para celebrar o Dia Mundial do Whisky
Whisky Sour: a história e a receita do clássico coquetel para celebrar o Dia Mundial do Whisky

This Saturday, May 16, marks World Whisky Day, a date that occurs every third Saturday of May. To mark the occasion, nothing better than preparing a classic whisky sour, a cocktail with a curious origin and simple preparation.

The history of the whisky sour dates back to 1872, when English sailor Elliot Stubb landed at the port of Iquique, Chile. Enchanted by the city, he decided to settle and open a bar. It was there that, after countless attempts to create original combinations, Stubb mixed lemon juice with whisky and a good dose of sugar. The result was so pleasing that the cocktail spread through the social clubs and bars of Iquique, then throughout the region, and finally reached the United Kingdom, where it received the name whisky sour.

To prepare the drink at home, simply follow the original recipe: whisky, fresh lemon juice, and sugar, served with ice and, if desired, a lemon slice or cherry for garnish. The simplicity of the ingredients and the balanced flavor make the whisky sour a sure choice to toast the date.