Named after the passenger seat that can sometimes be found on the side of a motorcycle, the Sidecar is one of the most beloved classic brandy cocktails to date. The exact origins of this cocktail are unknown, but we do have a few clues to help us discover when and where this cocktail was created. The first printed recipe of the Sidecar appeared in Robert Vermeire’s Cocktails How To Mix Them, which was published in May of 1922 and credits Malachi “Pat” MacGarry of the Buck’s Club in London as its creator. Shortly after Vermeire’s book hit the market, Harry MacElhone of Harry’s New York Bar in Paris published his own cocktail book called ABC of Cocktails, where he also credits Pat MacGarry as the creator.
However, in later editions of the book, MacElhone credits himself as the creator of the Sidecar, which casts doubt on who actually created the drink. Regardless of the inventor, we can determine the Sidecar was created sometime around 1920 in either London or Paris and has remained a staple in the classic cocktail catalogue ever since.
Our version of Sidecar features Lustau Brandy Solera Reserva in place of Cognac, which adds some depth and richness since this brandy de Jerez is aged in ex amontillado sherry casks.
Give this cocktail a try and discover why the Sidecar continues to thrive over 100 years since its inception.
COCKTAIL: SIDECAR
Full Ingredients list
- 2oz Lustau Brandy Solera Reserva
- .5oz Pierre Ferrand Dry Curacao
- .75oz Lemon Juice
- .25oz Simple Syrup
- Garnish: Orange Twist and a sugar-coated rim(optional)
Recipe author: Steven Dragun
WHAT BRANDY IS BEST FOR A SIDECAR COCKTAIL?
Traditionally, the Sidecar has been created with Cognac. However, any aged brandy could work in this cocktail so feel free to experiment and discover what works best for you.
WHAT GLASS IS BEST TO SERVE A SIDECAR COCKTAIL IN?
A Sidecar should be served in a chilled coupe or martini glass.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO MAKE A SIDECAR COCKTAIL WITH BRANDY?
HOW TO PREPARE A SIDECAR COCKTAIL WITH BRANDY AT HOME
Discover the new twist on the classic with this easy-to-follow recipe you can make at home. Remember you can enhance the cocktail depth by adding Lustau Pedro Ximénez for a richer, more indulgent flavor.
(optional) Rim a chilled coupe glass with lemon juice and coat the rim with sugar
1. Add all ingredients to a mixing tin
2. Add ice, shake, and double strain into the coupe glass
3. Express orange twist over the cocktail and garnish
FAQ
What is the difference between a whiskey sour and a sidecar?
Aside from using whiskey instead of brandy, the main difference between a Whiskey Sour and a Sidecar is the use of triple sec and egg whites. A whiskey sour does not use triple sec but does call for an egg white which provides a very creamy texture, whereas a Sidecar does use triple sec but lacks an egg white. Both drinks will have a similar flavor profile, but the body of the drink will be radically different.
What is a good substitute for cognac in a sidecar?
Any aged brandy will work in place of cognac in a Sidecar.
What glass is best used to serve a Sidecar in?
A coupe or martini glass is best for serving a Sidecar.
