Sidecar
A dry, citrus-forward Cognac sour with orange liqueur.
Drink details
Glass
Coupe Glass
Ice
No Ice
Method
Shaken
Strength
Strong
Servings
1
Recipe
Ingredients
Cognac
50 ml
Triple Sec
20 ml
Lemon Juice
Freshly squeezed
20 ml
Rating
Rate this drink
Method
Preparation
- 1
Shake Cognac, triple sec and lemon juice with ice.
- 2
Strain into a chilled coupe.
About the Sidecar
The Sidecar is a classic cognac sour combining Cognac, orange liqueur and freshly squeezed lemon juice. The recipe balances the warmth and fruit character of Cognac with bright citrus acidity and the sweetness of triple sec. Developed in the early twentieth century, it follows the same fundamental spirit-citrus-sweetener structure as many enduring sour cocktails. Served chilled and without ice, the Sidecar is compact, elegant and distinctly spirit-forward.
What does a Sidecar taste like?
A Sidecar tastes bright, tart and warming, with the rich fruit and oak character of Cognac balanced by fresh lemon acidity. Triple sec contributes orange flavor and sweetness, producing a concentrated cocktail that is both refreshing and distinctly spirit-forward.
Tips for making a Sidecar
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and shake the Cognac, triple sec and lemon thoroughly with ice. Because the drink contains only three principal ingredients, small changes in proportion have a noticeable effect on the balance. Chill the serving glass beforehand so the cocktail remains cold without additional ice.
