Spit Shine Scotch Sour Cocktail
A bold sour built on smoky Scotch, bright lime juice, and smooth simple syrup. The Spit Shine Scotch Sour Cocktail balances peaty depth with crisp citrus for a refreshing twist on the classic whisky sour style.
A smoky, citrusy take on the whisky sour, the Spit Shine Scotch Sour Cocktail pairs Scotch’s bold character with lime’s sharp tang and a touch of sweetness from simple syrup. This three-ingredient drink is quick to shake and delivers a crisp balance of smoke, tartness, and smooth finish.
Background
The Spit Shine is a minimalist Scotch sour variation. While the whisky sour traditionally uses bourbon and lemon, this recipe swaps in Scotch and lime for a brighter, smokier edge. It shows how a few small tweaks can transform a classic template.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Scotch – provides the smoky, malty backbone.
- Lime juice – adds acidity and freshness.
- Simple syrup – softens the citrus and whisky with balanced sweetness.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Strainer
- Rocks glass
- Ice
Smoke and Citrus in Harmony
What makes this cocktail shine is the way Scotch’s earthy, smoky depth plays against the brightness of lime. It’s both bracing and approachable, especially for whisky drinkers who want something refreshing without losing character.
Substitutions & Variations
- Swap lemon juice for lime to bring the drink closer to a traditional whisky sour.
- Use a peated Scotch for extra smoke or a lighter blend for subtle malt flavor.
- Try flavored syrups like honey syrup or ginger syrup to add new layers.
Helpful Tips
- Shake hard to fully chill and aerate the cocktail.
- Express a lime peel over the glass for extra aroma.
- Works well as a pre-dinner drink thanks to its tart, appetite-whetting profile.
Spit Shine Recipe
Type of Glass
Rocks Glass
Ingredients
- 2 oz.
- 1/2 oz.
- 1/2 oz.
Directions
- Fill a shaker halfway with ice.
- Add Scotch, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well until chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass.
A sharp kick of lime and the smoky depth of Scotch make the Spit Shine Scotch Sour Cocktail a simple but unforgettable sour.
