Sidecar Cocktail: The Drink That’s All Class, No Apologies

If you’re after a cocktail that’s rich, citrusy and just a little bit fancy the Sidecar cocktail is the one. It’s that perfect mix of warm cognac, sweet triple sec and a sharp hit of lemon juice… simple, bold and seriously sippable.

It’s got this vibe that feels like a late-night jazz track in a glass… smooth, cool and just a little old school without trying too hard. Whether you’re clinking glasses with friends or just winding down solo, the Sidecar shows up with grown-up energy and a little flash of class.

And yeah it’s a classic, but it’s not stuffy. It’s easy to make and even easier to love… no fancy mixers, no weird ingredients, just three simple things shaken up and poured out in a glass that looks as good as it tastes.

What Is a Sidecar Cocktail and Where Did It Come From?

A Sidecar is that classic cocktail that brings a little bit of swagger without overdoing it… just cognac, triple sec and fresh lemon juice. It’s rich, zesty and smooth with a kick that sneaks up on you in the best way.

The story goes back to the 1920s… some say it started in Paris, others say London. Either way, it was named after a motorcycle sidecar and became a hit at fancy bars and speakeasies. Think of it as the kind of drink that feels classy but not uptight… the kinda sip that makes you feel like you’re in a dimly lit bar with a little jazz in the background.

And the best part? It’s simple but feels special. The lemon juice keeps it sharp, the cognac brings the heat and the triple sec ties it all together with a sweet, smooth finish.

Tips to Make the Perfect Sidecar Cocktail at Home

• Choose a good cognac: Go for something rich and smooth… it’s the star of the drink so it needs to stand out.
• Fresh lemon juice only: Squeeze it right before you shake… bottled juice just doesn’t bring that same zing.
• Chill the glass: Pop your glass in the freezer while you mix… keeps the drink cold and sharp from start to finish.
• Sugar rim or not: If you like a little sweetness go for the sugar rim… if you want to keep it classic skip it.
• Shake it hard: Shake for at least 15 seconds… you want it ice-cold and a little frothy.
• Garnish with a twist: A lemon twist adds a pop of citrus and a little visual flair… or keep it simple with a thin lemon slice.

Best Food Pairings for a Sidecar Cocktail

A Sidecar is bold, citrusy and a little sweet… so it pairs best with foods that can keep up with that punch.

Charcuterie board: Rich, salty meats and sharp cheeses balance out the sweetness of the triple sec.

Lemon garlic shrimp: The citrusy lemon shrimp mirrors the drink’s bright lemon notes… fresh, zesty and light.

Spicy nuts: The cognac’s warmth pairs perfectly with spiced almonds or candied pecans… sweet, spicy and just a little rich.

Duck or roast chicken: The deep, savory flavors of duck or chicken play up the cognac’s warm, boozy finish.

Dark chocolate truffles: Rich, velvety chocolate adds a touch of decadence that ties in with the cognac’s deep, caramel notes.

Citrus salad: Fresh greens, orange slices and a light vinaigrette… keeps it bright and crisp without overpowering the drink.

Refreshing and Tangy Sidecar Cocktail

The Sidecar’s got this smooth, citrusy bite that just works. You get that deep, warming vibe from the cognac, a hit of sweetness from the triple sec and then the lemon juice cuts through with just the right amount of zing. It’s sweet, it’s sour and it keeps your taste buds on their toes in the best way.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces cognac (Brandy)
• 1 ounce triple sec (Cointreau)
• 3/4 ounce fresh lemon juice
• Ice cubes
• Sugar for rimming the glass (optional)
• Lemon twist or slice for garnish

Zero-proof Sidecar: Swap the cognac for apple cider or a rich black tea… keep the lemon juice and a splash of orange juice to mimic the triple sec.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Glass: If desired, rim the edge of a chilled cocktail glass with sugar. To do this, moisten the rim with a lemon wedge and then dip it into a plate of sugar.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the cognac, triple sec and fresh lemon juice. Fill the shaker with ice cubes.
3. Shake: Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
4. Strain and Serve: Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass. Garnish with a lemon twist or slice on the rim.

Prep Times

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 1 cocktail
• Calories: 955 kcal
• Fat: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 210g

Sidecar Cocktail Variations You Need to Try

• Berry twist: Muddle a few raspberries or blackberries with the lemon juice… adds a sweet, tart burst of flavor.
• Spicy Sidecar: Add a dash of cinnamon syrup or a pinch of cayenne… warms up the cognac and gives it a little kick.
• Citrus-forward version: Double up on the lemon juice and add a splash of orange bitters… extra zesty and sharp.
• French Sidecar: Swap the triple sec for Grand Marnier… richer, smoother and just a bit more luxe.
• Frozen Sidecar: Blend all the ingredients with ice… turns it into a slushy, boozy treat perfect for hot nights.

Need inspiration for some other Brandy based cocktails? Why not try an Incredible Hulk, some Red Sangria or some Christmas Mulled Wine?

To pin for later:

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Yield: 1

Sidecar Cocktail Recipe

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Elevate your cocktail hour with a timeless sidecar cocktail. Perfectly balanced with cognac, Cointreau, and lemon. Pin this for your next gathering!

Prep Time 5 minutes

Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 60 ml Cognac (Brandy)
• 30 ml triple sec (Cointreau)
• 22 ml ounce fresh lemon juice
• Ice cubes
• Sugar for rimming the glass (optional)
• Lemon twist or slice for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Glass: If desired, rim the edge of a chilled cocktail glass with sugar. To do this, moisten the rim with a lemon wedge and then dip it into a plate of sugar.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the cognac, triple sec and fresh lemon juice. Fill the shaker with ice cubes.
3. Shake: Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
4. Strain and Serve: Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass. Garnish with a lemon twist or slice on the rim.

Notes

Zero-proof Sidecar: Swap the cognac for apple cider or a rich black tea... keep the lemon juice and a splash of orange juice to mimic the triple sec.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

1

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 955Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 4mgCarbohydrates: 210gFiber: 0gSugar: 209gProtein: 0g

This nutrition information was automatically calculated by Nutritionix, but may not be 100% accurate.