The Sidecar

Test Your Bartender's, or Your Own, Skill

There are some classic cocktails that your bartender should know how to make. This includes you if you’re making a libation in the comfort of your home bar. One such cocktail is the Sidecar, a delicious and refreshing cocktail requiring but three ingredients.

These aren’t unique ingredients, ones that send you searching liquor store shelves for. These are ingredients you should have on hand just as part of a well-stocked bar that also lends itself to your kitchen. First, is cognac, a must for finishing a bowl of Julia Child’s soupe à l’oignon. Second is an orange liqueur, such as triple sec, Cointreau, or Grand Marnier. The third and final ingredient is fresh lemon juice, a staple of cocktails and cooking alike. (Though we’re a bit out of season, try adding the juice of half a lemon or so to your pot of chili at the end of the simmer. The bright acidity takes it to the next level.)

Simple to prepare before reclining on your deck or in your favorite chair, watching your favorite Bruce Willis movie, the Sidecar is a must for your repertoire. So get out your shaker, some ice, and those aforementioned ingredients and settle into one of the simpler pleasures in life.

The Sidecar:
The proportions vary depending on which recipe you check, but this ratio hits just right on a nice Spring day. You can also rim the glass with sugar if you want added sweetness, though that is unnecessary.

1.5 oz. Cognac, Armangac, or brandy
3/4 oz. orange liqueur
3/4 oz. fresh lemon juice

Add ingredients to a shaker with ice, shake vigorously, and then strain into a coupe glass. Failing that, strain it into whatever glass you have handy, then sit back and enjoy.