Forget the egg-white sour served up in a coupe. In Cyprus a Brandy Sour is a tall, fizzy glass of local brandy, tart lemon cordial and a few dashes of bitters, poured over lots of ice. It is light, thirst-quenching and made for hot afternoons.
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Garnish with a lemon wheel and, if you like, a cherry.
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Cyprus Brandy Sour
Taste
Tangy and refreshing, with bright lemon, a soft grape-brandy body and a spicy hint of bitters. Light, fizzy and easy to drink.
History and origin
The Cyprus Brandy Sour is closely tied to the Troodos mountain resort of Platres. The popular story says it was created in the 1930s at the Forest Park Hotel for King Farouk of Egypt, who stayed there and wanted a drink that looked like iced tea, so his alcohol would not be noticed.
Whatever the exact truth, the drink became a symbol of the island and is served in almost every bar and taverna. Its character depends on two local ingredients: Cypriot brandy, which is lighter and fruitier than cognac, and lemon squash, a concentrated lemon cordial found in every Cypriot kitchen.
Bartender tips
Lemon squash is sweeter and more concentrated than juice; if you use fresh lemon, add sugar syrup to balance.
Cypriot brandies are typically lighter in style; a light Spanish or Greek brandy is a good substitute.
Keep everything cold, including the brandy: the drink should be icy on a hot day, and plenty of ice slows dilution.
Variations
Classic Brandy Sour
Shake 60 ml brandy, 25 ml lemon juice, 15 ml syrup and an egg white, then serve up: the American-style sour.
Brandy Sour with lemonade
Top with lemon-lime soda instead of soda water, as many Cypriot bars do.
Frequently asked questions
How is a Cyprus Brandy Sour different from a regular Brandy Sour?
It is a tall drink with lemon cordial and soda over ice, not a short shaken sour with fresh lemon and egg white.
What is lemon squash?
A concentrated lemon cordial of juice and sugar, diluted before drinking. In Cyprus it is a pantry staple.
What brandy should I use?
A Cypriot brandy is traditional. Otherwise choose a light, fruity grape brandy.
