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This summer cocktail combines a classic whiskey sour with sweet juicy watermelon. It makes a delicious and unique mixed drink with a beautiful pink hue. The watermelon sour has become of a favorite around here. I know you’re gonna love it!

A pink cocktail garnished with a watermelon stick.

What is a watermelon whiskey sour?

This cocktail is a fun summer twist on the classic whiskey sour by muddling in fresh watermelon. It only needs 4 ingredients and is non-fussy yet sophisticated.

Buy a peak-of-the-season watermelon and make a few of these at your next backyard gathering.

Watermelon whiskey sour ingredients

Watermelon cocktail supplies on a wooden counter.

Fresh watermelon cubes. Make this in the peak of summer when watermelon season is in full swing. Check out my watermelon cutting tutorial for an easy way to cut the melon into cubes!
We like using bourbon. You can substitute rye whiskey or scotch if that’s your preference.
Simple syrup to add a touch of sweetness. Super easy to make at home.
Fresh squeezed lemon juice to make it sour and complex.
Ice cubes for serving it on the rocks.

I love using bartending tools. They’re fun to use. And you’ll look super cool making cocktails for your guests.

Pro-tip: As I said, this doesn’t need to be fussy. If you don’t have bartending tools, get creative!

The handle end of a wooden spoon makes a great substitute for a muddler. A small mesh strainer or even a slotted spoon will work to strain the cocktail! You can even skip the straining to create a more rustic drink. You should go back and eat the muddled watermelon anyway. It’s delicious!

How to make a watermelon whiskey sour

Pouring lemon juice into a cocktail shaker of muddled watermelon.

Pouring simple syrup into a cocktail shaker of muddled watermelon.

Muddle the watermelon cubes and lemon juice together in a heavy-bottomed cocktail glass.

Pour in the simple syrup and bourbon.

Stir it well.

Straining a watermelon cocktail into a glass of ice.

Showing a watermelon stick to garnish a cocktail.

Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice.

Garnish with a watermelon stick and serve immediately.

A watermelon sour with a dish of watermelon and a decanter of bourbon in the background.

Looking for more fun drinks?

Tag @mandiofthemountains on Instagram! I can’t wait to see your beautiful creations!