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.
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
- 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.
Ingredients
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.
Variations
- 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.
How to Make a Shamrock Sour Cocktail
This cocktail comes together quickly with a good shake.
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice about halfway. Pour in whisky, lime and lemon juice, at least 1 tablespoon simple syrup and 1 drop of green food coloring.
Shake until chilled and strain into a glass with fresh ice.
Hint: Adjust sweetness or tartness while it's still in the shaker.
Recipe Tips
- 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.
More Cocktails
Serving Suggestions
- 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.
Shamrock Sour Recipe FAQs
A smooth Irish whiskey is ideal, but any mild whiskey will work.
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
Equipment
- Cocktail Shaker
- Shot Glass
- Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
- 2 ½ ounce Jameson whiskey
- 1 ounce lime juice freshly squeezed
- ½ ounce lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon simple syrup
- 1 drop green food coloring
- ice
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice about halfway. Pour in whisky, lime and lemon juice, at least 1 tablespoon simple syrup and 1 drop of green food coloring.
- Shake until chilled and strain into a glass with fresh ice.
Notes
- 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.
- Taste before serving: Adjust sweetness or tartness while it's still in the shaker.
Nutrition
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I tried this drink. The lemon and lime in this drink gives it a real kick. Delicious.
So glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for the review.
We love a good sour cocktail. So single to make and the option to add a green vibe makes it great for St Patty's Day!