Sidecar Cocktail Recipe

The Sidecar is a classic cocktail that is believed to have been created around the end of World War I. It is said to have been first made in either London or Paris, with the Ritz Hotel in Paris often being credited as its birthplace. The cocktail is named after the motorcycle sidecar, which was a popular mode of transportation at the time. The Sidecar is a favorite among those who enjoy a balance of sweet and sour flavors, with a hint of sophistication.

The Sidecar is a delightful mix of sour, sweet, and strong flavors. The combination of cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice creates a smooth and refreshing taste, with a hint of warmth from the cognac.

• The Sidecar is often considered a 'forgotten classic' as it is not as well-known as other classic cocktails like the Martini or Old Fashioned.
• The original recipe called for equal parts of cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice, but modern variations often adjust the ratios to create a more balanced flavor.
• The Sidecar is sometimes served with a sugared rim, which adds an extra touch of sweetness to the drink.

1. Prepare the glass:
   • If desired, moisten the rim of a chilled cocktail glass with a lemon wedge and dip it into sugar to create a sugared rim.
2. Combine ingredients:
   • In a cocktail shaker, add 2 oz of cognac, 1 oz of orange liqueur, and 0.75 oz of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
3. Shake and strain:
   • Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. Strain the mixture into the prepared cocktail glass.
4. Garnish:
   • Twist a lemon peel over the drink to release its oils, then drop it into the glass or drape it over the rim.

• Shaking: Shake the cocktail until the shaker becomes frosty. This helps to properly chill the drink.
• Sugared Rim: For a more pronounced sweet flavor, consider adding a sugared rim to the glass.
• Lemon Twist: When adding the lemon twist, squeeze it over the drink to release the essential oils.

Food Pairings

• Cheeses: A charcuterie board with a variety of cheeses, especially those that are nutty or creamy, will complement the citrus and brandy notes.
• Seafood: The acidity of the lemon juice works well with lighter seafood dishes, such as shrimp cocktails or seared scallops.
• Roasted Nuts: Pair with roasted or candied nuts to echo the warming, rich notes of the cognac.

Drink Pairings

• Sparkling Water: To cleanse the palate between sips, especially if the Sidecar is being enjoyed as a pre-dinner drink.
• Espresso: The strong coffee flavor is a nice counterpoint to the Sidecar's sweetness and works well after dinner.

• Cognac: Can be replaced with any other brandy.
• Orange Liqueur: Triple sec or Grand Marnier can be used.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

Bourbon Sidecar

Switch out cognac for bourbon to give a more American twist, adding a vanilla and oak profile. The rest stays true to the classic. This sibling of the original Sidecar has a bit more kick and a smoky accent—perfect for those who love a twist of the Wild West.

Ingredients: Bourbon (2 oz), Orange Liqueur (1 oz), Lemon Juice (0.75 oz), Sugar (rim, optional), Lemon Twist (garnish)

Tropical Sidecar

Introduce pineapple juice (0.5 oz) and replace cognac with rum (2 oz) for a summer holiday vibe. The pineapple adds a sweet island flair, and the rum brings in a beachy vibe that'll make you want to dig your toes into the sand.

Ingredients: Rum (2 oz), Orange Liqueur (1 oz), Lemon Juice (0.25 oz), Pineapple Juice (0.5 oz), Sugar (rim, optional), Lemon Twist (garnish)

Spiced Sidecar

Add a dash of cinnamon syrup (0.5 oz) to the original recipe to warm things up. Pair with a spiced cognac if you're feeling bold. It's like wrapping the classic Sidecar in a cozy sweater and sitting by the fire—comfort in a glass.

Ingredients: Cognac (2 oz), Orange Liqueur (1 oz), Lemon Juice (0.75 oz), Cinnamon Syrup (0.5 oz), Sugar (rim, optional), Lemon Twist (garnish)