Nocino Sour

The Nocino Sour has a base of Cognac and calls for Italian walnut liqueur (also known as nocino), lemon juice, simple syrup, and Angostura bitters.

There's a certain charm about walnut liqueur that conjures images of snowy, mountainous winter days. If inhabitants of snow globes had a drink of choice, it might just be this delightful, nutty liqueur. We're letting it play star-ingredient in this Nocino Sour, pairing it with bright lemon and elegant Cognac.

Frequently asked questions

What is Nocino?

Nocino is an Italian liqueur made from a combination of green walnuts, which are unripe walnuts that have not formed their shells, as well as spices like star anise, cloves, cinnamon, and vanilla beans.

Walnut liqueur is found in many different regions across Europe, known as nocino in Italian, noix in French, and nüsse in German. Walnut liqueur is made with fresh green walnuts (not the kind you'll find on grocery store shelves) steeped in an alcohol base, then spiced and sweetened. Each region takes a different approach, but our favorite is Nux Alpina from Austria, one of the highest-quality iterations you can find, packed with nutty walnut and festive spice. Nux is delectably rich with layers that seem to keep up opening up as it sits on your palette. It's drinkable enough to be enjoyed on its own after dinner, but it also adds a festive and complex element to cocktails.

Nux Alpina is made by steeping green walnuts in grape brandy, making it a fitting companion for aged grape brandies like Cognac. Sours are one of our favorite cocktails to riff on since the basic makeup is straightforward and adaptable: a base spirit paired with a strong dose of tart citrus. The nuttiness in Nux paired with sour lemon is a flavor juxtaposition we can't get enough of. Deep, nutty, and mysterious Nux paired with lively and outgoing lemon proves that opposites can thrive together. Don't leave the Angostura bitters out — they enhance and draw out the warming spice in the Nux.

There are a number of stellar bottled nocinos you can buy instead of attempting to make your own; we’re partial to this offering from Brooklyn-based Forthave Spirits, as well as Nux Alpina from Austria.

What is Cognac?

Cognac is a category of Brandy name named for the Cognac region where it is produced. This grape-based distillate is a protected French appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC), which requires the adherence to specific rules during production of the spirit. Cognac must be made from Ugni Blanc, Folle Blanc, or Colombard grapes; distilled twice in a copper pot still; and aged in Limousin or Tronçais oak for at least two years.

What is a good substitute for Cognac?

Consider substituting another French brandy, Armagnac, in place of Cognac to make this cocktail. Note that using Armagnac will make for a fuller-bodied drink.

What are some other uses for Angostura bitters?

You can use Angostura bitters as a standard addition to the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan cocktail. These bitters add assertive yet well-balanced woodsy spices to any cocktail. Here are eight of our favorite cocktails that call for booze, bitters, and not much else.

How do you make simple syrup?

To make simple syrup, place 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan. Stir over medium heat until sugar is dissolved, about three minutes. Transfer to a small jar or pitcher, cover, and refrigerate. (Simple syrup can be made two weeks ahead. Keep refrigerated.)