Final answer:
The Amaretto Sour and the Whiskey Sour differ primarily in their base spirits, with the former using amaretto liqueur and the latter using whiskey. They both include lemon juice and a sweetening agent but have distinct flavor profiles; the Amaretto Sour is sweeter and nuttier, while the Whiskey Sour is more robust and tangy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Amaretto Sour and the Whiskey Sour are both popular cocktails that belong to the sour family of mixed drinks. The primary difference between these two drinks lies in their main ingredients. An Amaretto Sour is primarily made with amaretto, which is a sweet almond-flavored liqueur, while a Whiskey Sour is made with whiskey as its base spirit. Both cocktails include a sweetening agent, such as simple syrup, and lemon juice to give them their characteristic sour taste.
Another distinction is the historical origins and types of alcohol used. Whiskey Sours have been around since the 19th century and are typically made with bourbon or rye whiskey, whereas Amaretto Sours are a more modern invention and use the Italian amaretto liqueur. The flavor profiles vary significantly due to these core ingredients, with the Amaretto Sour offering a sweeter, nuttier experience and the Whiskey Sour providing a strong, oak-aged savoriness paired with the tang of the lemon juice.
Both cocktails are often garnished with a slice of lemon and a cherry, but variations and additional garnishes can be found depending on the bartender or the drinker's preference.