Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic15.4% ABV6 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderateshaken drink
Why: 6 ingredients, shaken drink, requires shaker
Best for: BBQ, Charcuterie, BBQ / Cookout
Ingredients & Tools
BaseModifierCitrusSweetenerDairy / textureBitters
- 2.0 ozStraight Rye WhiskeyBase
- 2.0 ozBenedictineModifier
- 4.0 ozFresh Lemon JuiceCitrus
- 2.0 ozHoney SyrupSweetener
- 1.0 ozEgg WhiteDairy / texture
- 1 dashAngostura BittersBitters
Tools:shaker
How to Make It
ShakeGarnish
- Shake first five ingredients with ice and strain into chilled cocktail glass.ShakeShaking chills, dilutes and adds texture.
- Add bitters and lemon twist.GarnishGarnish changes aroma, presentation or final flavour impression.
Best For
Food Pairings
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 spiritBourbon is sweeter with vanilla and caramel; rye is spicier and drier; Scotch adds smoke and malt. Each changes the character significantly — stay within the same family where possible.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.SweetenerHoney syrup is thicker and more aromatic than simple syrup. Agave is a clean swap — similar sweetness but lighter body. If you use plain sugar syrup, the drink will taste sharper and less complex. Warm honey with equal parts water first so it dissolves properly in cold drinks.BittersAngostura bitters add spice, clove and cinnamon warmth. Orange bitters swap in cleanly if you want a brighter, more citrus-forward result. Peychaud's is lighter and more floral — it works well in spirit-forward drinks where you want less spice weight.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Jitterbug Sour?
- The Jitterbug Sour is a cocktail made with 6 ingredients, traditionally served in a Cocktail Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 15.4%. A standard serving contains approximately 443 calories.
- What does a Jitterbug Sour taste like?
- Jitterbug Sour has a flavour profile featuring Spice, Honey, Lemon, Sweet. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Jitterbug Sour?
- Jitterbug Sour pairs well with BBQ, Charcuterie, Cheese. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a Jitterbug Sour?
- The Jitterbug Sour has an ABV of approximately 15.4%. That's approximately 2.83 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 443 calories, 35.7g sugar, 46.8g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Jitterbug Sour typically served?
- Jitterbug Sour is a popular choice for BBQ / Cookout, Winter / Cozy. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Jitterbug Sour?
- If you enjoy Jitterbug 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 Jitterbug Sour at home?
- Yes. The Jitterbug Sour uses 6 ingredients, making it more involved to prepare at home. You will need a Cocktail 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 Jitterbug 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.