- Garnish: Sugar for rimming, Lemon twist
- Spirit: 2 oz. (60ml) Cognac
- Modifier: 3/4 oz. (22.5ml) Cointreau
- Souring Agent: 3/4 oz. (22.5ml) fresh lemon juice
The Sidecar is a classic cocktail that was popularized in the roaring ’20s, and has remained a staple in mixology since then. This cocktail stands out amongst its peers with its warm, citrusy flavors, balanced beautifully with the sourness of fresh lemon juice and the sweetness of Cointreau. The bold, rich notes of cognac are highlighted perfectly, making this drink a favorite among cognac enthusiasts and those who enjoy a perfectly balanced classic cocktail.
History of The Sidecar
It is certainly worth mentioning the intriguing history of the Sidecar cocktail. Different sources offer various stories about its origin, but the most agreed-upon tale dates back to World War I in Paris. A regular patron, an officer during the war, used to arrive at a popular Parisian bar in a motorcycle sidecar. Hence, the drink was named ‘Sidecar’.
How to Make The Sidecar
Crafting the perfect Sidecar is a simple process, but every step is essential for achieving that perfectly balanced flavor that makes this cocktail so special. Follow these steps to make your own stunning Sidecar at home:
- Chill your cocktail glass in advance. Cool it in the fridge for a couple of hours or fill it with ice while you prepare the ingredients.
- Rim the chilled glass with lemon and dip it in sugar to get a beautiful and sweet rim.
- In a shaker, add in your cognac, Cointreau, and fresh lemon juice.
- Fill the shaker with ice, and shake until the exterior is cold, typically about 30 seconds.
- Strain this into your prepared cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon, cut thin and spiralled beautifully over the top of the glass.
There you have it, a classic Sidecar cocktail perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it as an aperitif, digestif, or simply as a treat on its own. The Sidecar is truly a tribute to balance, showcasing the harmony that can be achieved with the bitter, sour, and sweet flavours.
Variations of the Sidecar
While the classic Sidecar recipe has always remained a favorite throughout decades, there are some popular variations you might want to try.
The Chelsea Sidecar / Delilah :
This switches the cognac for gin, giving a unique, fresher taste to the classic recipe.
The Bourbon Sidecar :
This variant substitutes the cognac with bourbon for a smokier, deeper flavor profile.
The Apt :
This rendition uses Apricot Brandy instead of cognac and Cointreau for a sweeter, fruitier version of the Sidecar.
Whether experienced in its classic form or through one of its innovative variants, the Sidecar is a delight to the senses, and a must-try for every cocktail enthusiast.
