Prizefighter No. 1: A Bold, Refreshing Twist on a Whiskey Sour
Prizefighter No. 1: A Bold, Refreshing Twist on a Whiskey Sour
Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering every Sunday for dinner, where stories were shared, laughter echoed, and, of course, drinks were poured. My grandfather, a whiskey aficionado, would always whip up his famous whiskey sour, a drink that became synonymous with those cherished moments. As I grew older, I wanted to honor that tradition while adding my own twist. Thus, the Prizefighter No. 1 was born—a bold, refreshing take on the classic whiskey sour that brings a new layer of excitement to this beloved drink.
What Makes It Special
This recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Unique Flavor Profile: The addition of fresh herbs and a hint of citrus elevates the traditional whiskey sour, making it a refreshing choice for any occasion.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the whiskey for your favorite spirit, allowing for endless variations.
- Visual Appeal: The vibrant colors of the herbs and garnishes make this drink not just tasty but also a feast for the eyes.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 0 minutes | Servings: 1
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Fresh mint leaves
- Ice cubes
- Mint sprig and lemon wheel for garnish
Let’s Get Cooking
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In a cocktail shaker, muddle 5-6 fresh mint leaves with the simple syrup to release the mint’s essential oils.
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Add the bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and ice cubes to the shaker.
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Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
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Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
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Garnish with a sprig of mint and a lemon wheel.
My Pro Tips
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For an extra kick, try adding a dash of bitters to the shaker before mixing.
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Experiment with different herbs like basil or rosemary for a unique flavor twist.
Perfect Pairings
- Grilled lemon herb chicken
- Spicy shrimp tacos
- Dark chocolate brownies
FAQs
Q: Can I make this drink in advance?
A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the mixture (without ice) ahead of time and shake it just before serving.
The Heart of the Dish
Every sip of the Prizefighter No. 1 takes me back to those Sunday dinners, where the warmth of family and the joy of shared stories filled the air. This drink is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of memories and a nod to the past, while also embracing the present. I hope it brings you as much joy as it has brought me.
Your Turn
I invite you to try the Prizefighter No. 1 and make it your own! Feel free to tweak the ingredients, share your variations, and let me know how it turns out. Cheers to new traditions!

Prizefighter No. 1: A Bold, Refreshing Twist on a Whiskey Sour
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 oz honey syrup
- 1 oz ginger beer
- 1 grilled lemon slice for garnish
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- In a shaker, combine the bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and honey syrup.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
- Garnish with a grilled lemon slice and fresh mint leaves.




