Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic8.3% ABV4 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderateshaken drink
Why: 4 ingredients, shaken drink, requires shaker
Best for: Seafood Dinner, After Dinner
Ingredients & Tools
BaseCitrusSweetenerDairy / texture
- 2.0 ozCoffee-Flavored BrandyBase
- 1.0 ozLemon JuiceCitrus
- 1.0 ozPowdered SugarSweetener
- 2.0 ozEgg WhiteDairy / texture
Tools:shaker
How to Make It
- Shake with ice and strain into sour glass.ShakeShaking chills, dilutes and adds texture.
Best For
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the sugarCompare with drinks that use less estimated sugar per serve.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.
Swap notes
Base spiritCognac is smooth and refined; armagnac is earthier and more rustic; calvados brings apple notes. Swapping within these still changes the flavour profile — cognac is the safest neutral choice.CitrusLime can replace lemon juice in a pinch but it tastes more floral and slightly sweeter, so the drink will taste different. Reduce any syrup by a small amount if swapping. Orange juice is a softer, less acidic option — use it when you want a rounder, less sharp result.SweetenerSimple syrup is neutral; honey adds floral warmth; agave is lighter and less cloying; grenadine adds pomegranate colour and fruit sweetness. Sweeteners vary in intensity — start with less than you think you need, then taste. Always rebalance with a little citrus if the drink feels flat after swapping.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Coffee Sour?
- The Coffee Sour is a cocktail made with 4 ingredients, traditionally served in a Sour Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 8.3%. A standard serving contains approximately 290 calories.
- What does a Coffee Sour taste like?
- Coffee Sour has a flavour profile featuring Sugar, Lemon, Sweet, Citrus. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Coffee Sour?
- Coffee Sour is versatile — it pairs well with light snacks, seafood and mild cheeses. The best match depends on the dominant flavour in the specific recipe.
- How strong is a Coffee Sour?
- The Coffee Sour has an ABV of approximately 8.3%. That's approximately 0.83 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 290 calories, 35.5g sugar, 42.7g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Coffee Sour typically served?
- Coffee Sour is a popular choice for Seafood Dinner, After Dinner. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Coffee Sour?
- If you enjoy Coffee Sour, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a Coffee Sour at home?
- Yes. The Coffee Sour uses 4 ingredients, making it straightforward to prepare at home. You will need a Sour Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Coffee Sour with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.