Shamrock Sour
This Shamrock Sour is a bright, citrusy whiskey cocktail with the perfect balance of tart and sweet. Smooth Irish whiskey, fresh citrus and simple syrup come together for a refreshing sip with a festive green twist.
This is a natural pick for St. Patrick’s Day, but it’s just as good anytime you want an easy, crowd-pleasing cocktail with a little personality. It works for parties, casual get-togethers, or a relaxed night in.
If you love citrus-forward cocktails, some other fun options are our Bourbon Lemon Cocktail or Madras Cocktail.
- Festive and Fun: That green hue makes it feel instantly celebratory.
- Balanced Flavor: Bright citrus keeps the whiskey smooth and easy to sip.
- Quick to Make: Shake, pour and you’re done.
You only need a handful of basics to bring this bright cocktail together.
See the recipe card below for the exact quantities of each ingredient.
- Irish Whiskey: Provides a smooth, slightly sweet base.
- Fresh Lemon Juice and Lime Juice: Adds brightness and balance.
- Simple Syrup: Softens the citrus without overpowering the drink.
- Green Food Coloring (Optional): Gives it that classic Shamrock look.
Grab your cocktail shaker, jigger and measuring spoon and you’ll be sipping on this green drink in no time.
- Whiskey Swap: Bourbon adds sweetness, while rye brings a little spice.
- Single Citrus: Use all lemon or all lime for a simpler flavor profile.
- Alternative Sweetener: Honey syrup or agave both work well.
- No Coloring: Skip it entirely for a natural look.
This cocktail comes together quickly with a good shake.
Shake until chilled and strain into a glass with fresh ice.
Hint: Adjust sweetness or tartness while it’s still in the shaker.
- Shaken/Stirred: A great shake helps mellow the citrus and chill the drink properly.
- Glass: Serve over ice in a rocks glass or strain into a coupe for a cleaner look.
- Garnishes: A fresh lime wedge or round adds a simple touch.
- Fresh Citrus: Always use fresh, when possible, bottled juice won’t give the same brightness.
If citrusy, sour drinks are your thing, our Watermelon Sour Cocktail is a must try.
- St Patrick’s Day Recipes: Lamb Stew, Grasshopper Pie, Espresso Irish Coffee, Baileys Mint Vanilla Shake, Irish Coffee with Baileys, Baileys Brownies or Baileys Truffles.
A smooth Irish whiskey is ideal, but any mild whiskey will work.
Can I make this ahead of time?Mix everything except the ice and store it in the fridge, then shake with ice when ready to serve.
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Shamrock Sour
Recipe details
- 1 servings
- Prep time: 2 Minutes Cook time: 2 Minutes Total time: 4 min
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