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Sidecar
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.97 / 5
The Sidecar is a classic cocktail steeped in history, believed to have been invented around the end of World War I in either London or Paris. The Sidecar strikes a balance between the robust warmth of cognac and the sharp, citrus notes provided by freshly squeezed lemon juice, complemented by a touch of sweetness and complexity from the triple sec. Traditionally served in a chilled cocktail glass, the drink's presentation is elegant and timeless. Its flavor profile is a harmonious blend of tart and sweet, making it a sophisticated choice for a before-dinner aperitif. The Sidecar remains a favored choice among those who appreciate classic cocktails with an illustrious past.
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IBA Official Drink
Cocktail Of The Day
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die (Part 2)
Invented
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1922
Base ingredient
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Cognac
Calories
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193 calories
Alcohol content
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31.11% | 2.8 units *
Details
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Classic
Shaken

Tags

Cognac ingredient icon
Cognac cocktails
Triple Sec ingredient icon
Top ten Triple Sec cocktails
Lemon Juice ingredient icon
Top ten Lemon Juice cocktails
Cognac ingredient icon
Top ten Cognac cocktails

Cocktail glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Cognac cocktail ingredient icon for the Sidecar cocktail
Cognac
Triple Sec cocktail ingredient icon for the Sidecar cocktail
Triple Sec
Lemon Juice cocktail ingredient icon for the Sidecar cocktail
Lemon Juice
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

The Sidecar remains an impeccably balanced cocktail, where the warmth and richness of the cognac perfectly marry the zesty sharpness of lemon juice and the subtle sweetness of Triple Sec. This concoction not only highlights each component’s strength but achieves a harmonious blend that sings of sophistication and historical charm.

Method
How to make a Sidecar

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Add all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice and shake well until the outside of the shaker becomes frosted
Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and serve

Power tips
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Use VSOP or better quality cognac to ensure a well-rounded and rich base for your Sidecar cocktail.
Add a sugar rim to your cocktail glass for an extra touch of sweetness to balance the drink's tartness; use lemon juice to adhere the sugar to the rim.
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Sidecar masterclass

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Who Invented the Sidecar Cocktail?

An irresistible combination of cognac, triple sec, and lemon juice, the Sidecar has been a classic c...

Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Shake  ·  Strain  · 

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FAQ's

Origins history icon

What is the history behind the Sidecar cocktail?

The Sidecar is a classic cocktail believed to have been invented at the end of World War I in either London or Paris. The drink was associated with the fast living of the 1920s and has been said to be named after the motorcycle sidecar. However, its exact origins remain a subject of debate among cocktail historians.

Customization ideas icon

How can I adjust the Sidecar cocktail to my taste?

The Sidecar can be adjusted according to personal preference by playing with the ratio of its three main ingredients. For a sweeter drink, increase the amount of triple sec. For a more sour taste, add more lemon juice. And, for a stronger drink, increase the amount of cognac.

Ingredient specifics icon

What type of glass is best for serving a Sidecar, and how should it be prepared?

A Sidecar is traditionally served in a cocktail glass, also known as a martini glass. For an extra touch of elegance, you can prepare the glass by rimming it with sugar: rub the rim of the glass with a lemon wedge, then dip it in fine sugar before adding the drink.

Faq icon

Are there any popular variations of the Sidecar cocktail?

Yes, there are several popular variations of the Sidecar, including the White Lady, which substitutes gin for cognac, and the Margarita, which can be considered a tequila-based Sidecar with lime juice instead of lemon and salt on the rim.

Alcohol content comparison icon

What is the significance of the alcohol content in the Sidecar, and how does it compare to other cocktails?

The Sidecar has an alcohol content of 31.11%, making it a moderately strong cocktail. This content is due to its high proportion of cognac. Compared to other classic cocktails, the Sidecar is stronger than some, like the Mojito or Pimm's Cup, but not as strong as others like the Martini or Manhattan. This makes the Sidecar a good choice for those seeking a balanced cocktail with both flavor and potency.

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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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