The Sidecar is a classic cocktail making a comeback at bars and parties across the UK. This timeless libation blends the rich, oaky notes of Cognac with the bright, citrusy flavour of freshly squeezed lemon juice and the subtle sweetness of Cointreau. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated soirée or simply want to indulge in a delightful drink, this Sidecar recipe is sure to delight your guests.
Key Takeaways:
- Classic Sidecar recipe uses a 2:1:1 ratio of Cognac, Cointreau, and lemon juice
- Sidecar has a balanced, well-refined flavour profile with citrusy notes
- Sidecar is experiencing a renaissance in popularity thanks to the craft cocktail movement
- Modern interpretations experiment with different spirits and ingredients
- Sidecar is a versatile cocktail that can be enjoyed at parties and events
The Classic Sidecar Recipe and Ingredients
The standard modern Sidecar recipe calls for a 2:1:1 ratio of Cognac to Cointreau (or triple sec) to fresh lemon juice. The most common proportions are 1.5 oz Cognac, 1 oz dry curaçao or Cointreau, and 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice. However, alternative ratios exist, such as equal parts of all three ingredients (the French style) or 2 parts brandy to 1 part Cointreau and 1 part lemon juice (the English style). A small amount of simple syrup (0.25 oz) is optional and can help balance the acidity if the lemon juice is too sharp.
To prepare the Sidecar, simply add all the ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice, shake vigorously for 15 seconds, and then strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass. An optional garnish is a lemon twist or a sugar-rimmed glass.
The Historical Origins and Evolution of the Sidecar
The first printed recipe for the Sidecar appeared in 1922 in two different cocktail books, but the origin story is disputed. The most widely accepted version credits either Pat McGarry at London’s Buck’s Club or Harry MacElhone at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris as the creators of this iconic drink. An alternative legend suggests that an American officer inspired the Sidecar’s name after a motorcycle sidecar ride during an Armistice Day celebration at the end of World War I.
Initially, the Sidecar was made with brandy, but the recipe evolved to use Cognac, which provides a sturdier base. The original orange liqueur, curaçao, was also hard to find and unreliably made, leading to the substitution of Cointreau.
The Sidecar’s Current Popularity and Market Trends
The Sidecar is experiencing a “renaissance” and a “gentle rebound” in popularity, and it is one of the biggest risers among classic cocktails served at the world’s best bars. The Sidecar is noted as Cognac’s “foremost, somewhat lonely champion” among classic cocktails that remain popular today.
The craft cocktail movement and the growing interest in classic cocktails have driven the drink’s revival. Modern bar establishments, such as Death & Co, use the Sidecar as source material for developing new cocktails, showcasing its versatility and enduring appeal.
The Sidecar’s Flavor Profile and Versatility
The Sidecar is classified as a sour cocktail with balanced, well-refined flavours. The orange liqueur, such as Cointreau, balances the sourness of the fresh lemon juice, resulting in a “tasty” and “versatile” drink with citrusy notes that are timeless.
While the classic Sidecar recipe remains a staple, modern interpretations experiment with different types of brandy and alternative ingredients to create new flavour experiences. Some contemporary variations include spirit substitutions using bourbon or rum, though bartenders debate whether these are still technically Sidecars.
Conclusion
The Sidecar is a classic cocktail that is making a well-deserved comeback in the UK. With its balanced flavour profile, rich history, and versatility, this party-perfect drink is sure to delight your guests and elevate any social gathering. Whether you opt for the traditional recipe or explore modern interpretations, the Sidecar is a timeless libation that deserves a place in your cocktail repertoire.
Sources:
Cocktail Chemistry Lab – “The perfect Sidecar”
Inside Hook – “The Sidecar Is the Classic Cocktail Making a Surprise Comeback”
BBC Good Food – “Sidecar cocktail recipe”
Falstaff – “A fast thing: the history of the sidecar”
Alcohol Professor – “Classic Cocktails in History: the Sidecar”
Hennessy – “Classic Hennessy Cognac Sidecar Recipe”
San Antonio Current – “Cocktail Know-how: The Sidecar”
The Tasting Room/Liquor and Wine Outlets – “Spirited History: The Origins of the Sidecar”
