Bourbon Sidecar Cocktail Recipe

The Bourbon Sidecar is a twist on the classic Sidecar cocktail, which traditionally uses cognac. The Sidecar is believed to have been created around the end of World War I in either London or Paris. The bourbon variation likely emerged as a result of bourbon's popularity in the United States and offers a deeper, oak-infused flavor profile that appeals to whiskey enthusiasts.

• The Sidecar was named after the motorcycle attachment, reflecting its origin in the era of early motor vehicles.
• It's a cocktail that has stood the test of time, evolving with different base spirits like bourbon.
• Bourbon lovers often prefer this version for its robust and complex character.

The Bourbon Sidecar is a harmonious blend of sweet and sour with a robust whiskey undertone. The bourbon provides a warm, vanilla and oak-forward base, while the Cointreau adds a sweet, orangey zest. The lemon juice cuts through with a refreshing tartness, and the simple syrup rounds out the drink with a touch of sweetness.

• The Sidecar is often associated with the Ritz Hotel in Paris.
• The bourbon variation is a modern take that caters to the American palate.
• It's a versatile cocktail that can be enjoyed year-round, but is particularly comforting in the colder months.

• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Pour 2 ounces of bourbon, 1 ounce of Cointreau, ½ ounce of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of simple syrup into the shaker.
• Shake the mixture vigorously until well chilled.
• Strain the cocktail into a chilled cocktail glass.
• Garnish with a lemon twist, ensuring it rests on the rim or floats atop the drink.

• Always use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Chill your cocktail glass beforehand to keep the drink colder longer.
• When garnishing with a lemon twist, give it a little twist above the drink to release the essential oils.

Food Pairings for the Bourbon Sidecar

• Heavy Appetizers: The bold flavor of the Bourbon Sidecar pairs well with substantial appetizers such as bacon-wrapped dates, mini beef sliders, or gourmet stuffed mushrooms.
• Barbecue: The smoky sweetness of bourbon and the citrus hint from the lemon juice complement the flavors of barbecued meats, including pulled pork and smoked brisket.
• Chocolate Desserts: The rich flavors of bourbon and the sweetness from the Cointreau and simple syrup can balance out the bitterness of dark chocolate, making it a great companion to chocolate mousse or a chocolate tart.
• Cheese: A cheese platter featuring aged cheddar, gouda, or blue cheese can enhance the complexity of the Bourbon Sidecar.

Drink Pairings

• Sparkling Water: To cleanse the palate between sips, a refreshing glass of sparkling water can be ideal.
• Coffee: A strong espresso after the cocktail can be a nice finish to a delightful evening.

• Bourbon: If you don't have bourbon, a good rye whiskey can provide a similar spicy profile.
• Cointreau: Triple sec or another orange liqueur can be used as a substitute.
• Lemon Juice: Fresh is best, but bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch.

Maple Bourbon Sidecar

• Ingredients: Replace the simple syrup with maple syrup.
• Recipe: Follow the base recipe but substitute 1 teaspoon of maple syrup for the simple syrup.
• Flavor change: This twist will introduce a woodsy, autumnal vibe to the drink with a richer sweetness that ties in wonderfully with the bourbon.

Spicy Bourbon Sidecar

• Ingredients: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shaker.
• Recipe: Build the cocktail as usual, but sprinkle in a bit of cayenne with the other ingredients before shaking.
• Flavor change: This adds a warm heat to each sip, creating a zesty and exhilarating experience that complements the citrus and sweetness.

Herbal Bourbon Sidecar

• Ingredients: Add a sprig of thyme or rosemary to the shaker.
• Recipe: Muddle the herb in the shaker before adding the other ingredients; shake as usual.
• Flavor change: The herbal notes will introduce a fragrant, earthy layer to the cocktail, giving it a rustic, savory edge that would be perfect for an early evening aperitif.