Classic Sidecar Cocktail Recipe: How to Make the Timeless Sour Drink

The Sidecar holds an esteemed place in the pantheon of classic cocktails, tracing its noble origins back to the early 1900s, around the end of World War I. A story often told is of its invention by or for an American army captain in Paris, who frequented the city’s bars in a motorcycle sidecar. This tale intertwines with the fabric of cocktail history, notably through the legendary Harry MacElhone, owner of Harry’s New York Bar in Paris, where the Sidecar was popularized. It’s a cocktail that beautifully encapsulates the essence of the classic sour cocktail family, much like its cousins, the Whiskey Sour and the Mai Tai, showcasing a refined balance of sweetness and tartness.

Ingredients for the Quintessential Sidecar:

• 2 oz Cognac: For this libation, select a fine VSOP cognac, such as Rémy Martin or Pierre Ferrand, embodying the traditional type of brandy used in the classic sidecar recipe.
• 1 oz Triple Sec: Equal parts of a quality orange liqueur like Cointreau or Grand Marnier enrich the drink with a citrusy sweetness.
• 3/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice: The key to the sidecar’s slightly sour side, adding a fresh, zesty quality.
• Simple Syrup (Optional): A hint of sugar syrup may be added to tailor the sweetness to your taste.
• Garnish: A lemon twist or orange peel adds aromatic allure, while a sugar rim on the glass introduces a delightful sweetness with each sip.

Equipment:

• Cocktail Shaker
• Martini or Chilled Coupe Glass
• Shot Glass (for precise measuring)

Method:

1. Glass Preparation: First, create a sugar rim on your chilled cocktail or coupe glass by wetting the rim with a lemon wedge and dipping it into sugar. This not only adds to the aesthetic but introduces a sweet counterpoint to the cocktail’s tartness.
2. Combine Ingredients: In your cocktail shaker, mix together 2 oz of cognac, 1 oz of triple sec, and 3/4 oz of lemon juice. For those with a sweet tooth, a dash of simple syrup can soften the edges of this classic sour cocktail.
3. Shake to Chill: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until the mixture is well-chilled, marrying the ingredients into a harmonious blend.
4. Strain and Serve: Strain the chilled mixture into the prepared glass, showcasing the cocktail’s golden hue against the white sugar rim.
5. Final Touch: Garnish with a twist of lemon or orange peel to enhance the drink with a burst of citrus oils, elevating the overall flavor profile.
6. Savor Responsibly: Embrace the rich history and balanced flavor of the Sidecar as you drink responsibly, mindful of moderation and legal drinking age guidelines.

The Legacy and Variations:

The Sidecar’s recipe has been immortalized in the annals of cocktail lore, featured in esteemed publications like “Harry’s ABC of Mixing Cocktails” by Harry MacElhone and “The Savoy Cocktail Book” by Harry Craddock. It epitomizes the fine art of mixing drinks, maintaining its stature as a popular choice even today. While the traditional Sidecar remains a revered standard, modern mixologists enjoy experimenting with variations, introducing different types of brandy or adjusting the sweet and sour components to create new experiences.

Congac Choices:

For a Sidecar cocktail recipe, selecting a high-quality cognac is essential to achieve the perfect balance of flavors. Here are some excellent cognac choices that range from reasonably priced to more premium options, ensuring your Sidecar is both delicious and authentic:

Rémy Martin VSOP – This is a versatile, vibrant cognac with fruity notes and a smooth finish, making it a popular choice for cocktails.

Pierre Ferrand Ambre – Known for its rich, full flavors with hints of vanilla and almond, this cognac adds depth to the Sidecar.

Hennessy VS – While it is a younger cognac, Hennessy VS brings robust and fruity flavors that can stand up well in a mixed drink.

Courvoisier VSOP – Offering a delicate bouquet of fruit and spice, this cognac contributes to a more nuanced Sidecar.

Martell VS Single Distillery – With its rich, fruity aromas and smoother, sweeter palate, this cognac is an excellent base for a Sidecar.

The Sidecar is more than just a simple cocktail; it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of classic cocktails, offering a glimpse into the origin stories and cultural shifts of the early 20th century. Whether enjoyed in the spirited ambiance of Buck’s Club or the refined elegance of the Ritz, the Sidecar continues to be a symbol of good taste and the perfect balance in the world of mixed drinks.