The Sidecar is a timeless cocktail choice for any occasion

The Sidecar, a century-old classic cocktail, is celebrated for its tart yet balanced mix of cognac, orange liqueur, and fresh lemon juice.

The Sidecar is one of those timeless cocktails that never goes out of style, thanks to its perfect mix of sweet, sour, and strong flavours.

While its origins are a bit hazy, most people agree it first appeared in the early 1920s, possibly at the Hôtel Ritz in Paris. The name is said to come from a motorcycle sidecar. The story goes that a patron rolled up to a bar in a motorcycle sidecar mid-winter and asked for a drink strong enough to warm them up. And just like that, the Sidecar was born – or so the tale goes.

Adding a sugared rim to a Sidecar is optional, but since the cocktail tends to be on the dry side, a touch of sugar can balance the tartness.

Ingredients

Method

  1. Rim a coupe or martini glass with sugar (rub the edge of the glass with a slice of lemon, then dip it into a plate of sugar to create a thin, even coating). Place the glass in the freezer or refrigerator to chill while you make the cocktail.
  2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the Cognac, Cointreau (or Triple Sec), and fresh lemon juice.
  3. Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
  4. Using a fine mesh strainer, pour the cocktail into your prepared glass.
  5. Garnish with a lemon twist or a strip of orange zest.
Variations on the Sidecar
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