Sidecar cocktail

The Sidecar cocktail is possibly the most famous cognac-based cocktail.

The drink belongs to the sour cocktail group and is a classic subtle combination of French cognac, Cointreau (orange liqueur) and freshly squeezed lemon juice which is shaken with ice, and served in a coupe glass coated with a sugar rim.

The proportions of Sidecar are very variable. There are two main approaches: as per the French one – the cocktail is mixed in equal proportions. The English lovers believe the main ingredient is cognac and should be of greater volume in the mix (following this instruction the drink turns quite dry).

There are many theories as to the origin of Sidecar too. As per one of them, the cocktail was born at the end of the First World War in Paris, in a bar visited by an American army captain who would arrive in a motorcycle with a sidecar.

The bartender Pat McGarry, who created the drink, later brought the recipe to London – and that's how Sidecar cocktail gained worldwide popularity.

  • Total Time:
  • Type: Cocktail
  • Units: 2.5

Equipment

  • coupe glass

Ingredients

  • 100 ml cognac
  • 50 ml orange liqueur  (such as Cointreau)
  • 50 ml lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • orange twist (to garnish)
  • sugar rim (to garnish)

Instructions

  1. Coat the rim of a coupe glass with sugar and put it in the fridge to chill.
  2. Fill the cocktail shaker with some ice and mix the cognac, orange liqueur and lemon juice in it until well-chilled.
  3. Strain the mix into the chilled, sugar-rimmed coupe glass and serve.
The sugar rim on the Sidecar cocktail is most likely an American addition. As the first time a sugar rim was mentioned was in 1934 in three books of Anglo-American origin.

FAQ

What’s in a Sidecar cocktail?

Traditionally, it’s made with cognac, orange liqueur (like Cointreau), and fresh lemon juice.

Why is it called a Sidecar?

The name likely refers to the motorcycle attachment, though origins are debated—some say it was named after the way it was served in Paris during WWI.

Is it served straight or on ice?

A Sidecar is typically shaken with ice and served straight up in a coupe or martini glass, often with a sugared rim.

What type of brandy is best?

Cognac is preferred for authenticity, but any good quality brandy can be used.

Is it sweet or sour?

It strikes a balance—citrusy and tart from the lemon, with sweetness from the orange liqueur.

Can I use lime juice instead of lemon?

Technically yes, but lemon is more traditional and keeps the profile balanced.

Please note that the units field is an estimation, and will vary depending on the type and quantity of alcohol used. Please drink responsibly and legally.
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