The Sidecar Cocktail: A Sophisticated Classic from the Roaring Twenties

Elegant, balanced, and effortlessly timeless, the Sidecar cocktail is a staple in the world of classic mixology. Believed to have originated in Paris or London during the 1920s, the Sidecar blends the richness of Cognac, the sweet citrus of Cointreau, and the crisp bite of fresh lemon juice into a perfectly harmonized drink. Often served in a sugar-rimmed glass, this cocktail is both a nod to the golden age of cocktails and a favorite for modern connoisseurs. In this post, we’ll guide you through the authentic Sidecar recipe, share expert tips, and suggest ways to make it your signature sip.

5/19/20251 min read

🍋 Ingredients (1 serving):

2 oz Cognac (or brandy, but Cognac is traditional)
¾ oz Cointreau (or another high-quality triple sec)
¾ oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
Optional: Superfine sugar for rimming the glass
Ice

🍊 Garnish:

Lemon twist or orange peel

🛠️ Equipment Needed:

Cocktail shaker
Jigger or measuring tool
Fine strainer
Coupe or martini glass
Small plate (for sugaring the rim)

🍸 How to Make a Sidecar Cocktail:

Prepare the glass:
- Rub a lemon wedge along the rim of a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Dip the rim into a shallow plate of superfine sugar to coat (optional, but traditional).
In a cocktail shaker, combine:
- 2 oz Cognac
- ¾ oz Cointreau
- ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
Add ice and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds.
Strain into the prepared, chilled glass.
Garnish with a lemon twist or orange peel for an aromatic finish.

✨ Tips for the Perfect Sidecar:

Use fresh lemon juice—bottled won’t give the same sharp citrus edge.
Want it less tart? Slightly reduce the lemon juice or add a splash more Cointreau.
For a more luxurious touch, VSOP or XO Cognac enhances the depth of flavor.