The Orange Sour Cocktail is a variation of the traditional gin sour, which typically combines gin, lemon juice, sugar, and sometimes egg white to create a frothy texture. The Orange Sour adds a citrusy twist by incorporating fresh orange juice, which complements the botanical notes of gin beautifully. The result is a cocktail that is bright, tangy, and slightly sweet, with a smooth, balanced finish.

Photo: Marko Andrijašević

Key Ingredients:

  1. Arete Puro Gin: The backbone of the cocktail, gin’s Mediterranean flavors work in harmony with the citrus elements. Arete Puro is an excellent choice for this drink due to its classic juniper-forward profile.
  2. Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice is essential for a vibrant, natural flavor. It adds a sweet and tangy note that balances the gin’s botanicals.
  3. Lemon Juice: Lemon juice adds a sharper, more acidic citrus layer, enhancing the drink’s overall complexity.
  4. Simple Syrup: A touch of simple syrup provides the necessary sweetness to balance the acidity of the citrus juices.
  5. Egg White (optional): For a smoother texture and a frothy top, consider adding egg white. It doesn’t change the flavor but adds a luxurious mouthfeel.

Ingredients:

  • 6 cl Arete Puro gin
  • 3 cl freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 2.25 cl freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1.5 cl simple syrup
  • 1 egg white (optional)
  • Ice
  • Orange wheel or twist for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by juicing your oranges and lemons. Fresh juice is crucial for the best flavor. If using egg white, separate the egg and set aside the white.
  2. Mix the Cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, combine the Arete Puro gin, orange juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if using). If you want to intensify the orange flavor, add a dash or two of orange bitters.
  3. Dry Shake: If using egg white, first shake the mixture without ice (this is called a “dry shake”) to emulsify the egg white, creating a frothy texture.
  4. Shake with Ice: Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously until well-chilled, about 15-20 seconds.
  5. Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass. If you prefer, you can serve it over ice for a more casual presentation.
  6. Garnish: Garnish with an orange wheel or a twist of orange peel for an added citrus aroma.
  7. Enjoy: Sip and savor the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and botanical notes.
Photo: Marko Andrijašević

Just like every cocktail, a little change of ingredient makes a completely different twist. Here are a few examples:

  • Gin Stone Sour: For a slight variation, try the Gin Stone Sour, which is similar to the Orange Sour but typically includes a higher ratio of orange juice, making it slightly sweeter and fruitier.
  • Blood Orange: Substitute regular orange juice with blood orange juice for a richer, more vibrant color and a slightly different flavor profile.
  • Herbal Twist: Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme as a garnish to introduce an herbal note that pairs well with the gin’s botanicals.

The Orange Sour Cocktail is a delightful, citrus-forward drink that showcases the versatility of gin. With its bright flavors and smooth finish, it’s a perfect cocktail for both gin enthusiasts and those looking to explore new flavor combinations. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, the Orange Sour is sure to impress.