• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
Cashmere & Cocktails
  • Recipe Index
    • Breakfast
    • Appetizer
    • Beverage
    • Sandwich & Salad
    • Main Dish
    • Dessert
    • Sauce & Jam
  • Travel
  • Photography
  • Shop
  • Work With Me
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • LinkedIn
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube

Sidecar Cocktail

Feb 9, 2023 ·

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Step back in time and add some glamour to your glass with this vintage Sidecar cocktail recipe. The perfect blend of sweet and sour, this 1920s classic will transport you to the golden age of cocktails with every sip.

Overhead view of a Sidecar cocktail in a martini glass, placed on a wicker coaster. The backdrop is blue, with sliced lemons surrounding the glass.

The Sidecar cocktail is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time and remains a popular choice among cocktail enthusiasts. This sophisticated sipper is the perfect mix of sweet, sour, and boozy, making it the ideal drink for any occasion. But what is a Sidecar, exactly? Let’s get into it.

Revving Up the History of the Timeless Sidecar

The history of the Sidecar cocktail dates back to the early 20th century, with its origins rooted in Paris during World War I. It’s said that the drink was created for a customer who arrived at the famous Harry’s Bar on a motorcycle with a sidecar. The bartender, psyched to make a new and exciting cocktail, combined Cognac, Cointreau, and lemon juice to create the now-famous Sidecar cocktail.

Over time, the recipe for the Sidecar cocktail has evolved and been adapted to suit different tastes and preferences. The traditional recipe calls for Cognac as the base spirit, but it is not uncommon to find variations that use brandy, bourbon or whiskey. Despite these variations, the core elements of sweet, sour, and bitter remain unchanged, making the Sidecar a timeless classic that continues to be a popular choice among cocktail enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a traditional or a modern take on this classic cocktail, the Sidecar is sure to impress with its rich history and delicious taste.

Sidecar Sipping: A Boozy, Sour, Sweet Delight

One of the reasons the Sidecar cocktail is so delicious is because of its balanced flavour profile. The combination of Cognac, Cointreau, and lemon juice creates a harmonious blend of sweet and sour flavours, with a hint of bitterness from the Cognac. The result is a drink that is both refreshing and satisfying, with a complex taste that lingers on the palate.

Angled view of a Sidecar cocktail in a martini glass, placed on a wicker coaster. The backdrop is blue with a geometric pattern resembling tiles, with sliced lemons surrounding the glass.

A Visually Stunning Sip

Sip in style with the oh-so-pretty Sidecar cocktail! This drink may be a blast from the past, but its beauty is timeless. The bright yellow hue of the drink, set off by the sparkling sugar rim on the glass, creates a visually striking presentation. If you’re looking for simple and sophisticated, this drink is eye-catching and adds a touch of elegance to any occasion.

Cocktail Conundrum: Cognac, Brandy, or Bourbon

When mixing a Sidecar cocktail, there are several options to choose from when it comes to the base spirit. Which one is best for you? Let’s find out.

  • Cognac. Cognac is the traditional choice and provides a rich, smooth flavour that pairs well with the sweet Cointreau and tart lemon juice.
  • Brandy. Brandy is another option, offering a slightly sweeter taste that can still complement the other ingredients.
  • Bourbon. Bourbon can also be used, bringing a slightly smoky, whiskey-forward flavour to the mix.

    Ultimately, the choice of base spirit for your Sidecar cocktail will depend on your personal preferences and the flavours you want to highlight in your drink. Whether you prefer the smoothness of Cognac, the sweetness of Brandy, or the boldness of Bourbon, the Sidecar is a versatile cocktail that can be customized to your taste.

    Looking for a delicious Bourbon cocktail? Check out this Cherry Bourbon Sour!

    Glass of Class

    When serving a Sidecar cocktail, it’s important to choose the right glass to showcase its visually stunning presentation. The classic choice is a martini glass, with its elegant stem and broad bowl that allows for the vibrant yellow colour of the drink to be on full display. However, a coupe glass is also a popular option, with its shallow, rounded bowl that provides a vintage touch. Both of these glasses help to keep the drink chilled and enhance the overall drinking experience. Whichever glass you choose, make sure it’s well-chilled to add an extra touch of sophistication to your Sidecar cocktail.

    Direct view of a Sidecar cocktail in a martini glass, placed on a wicker coaster. The backdrop is blue, with sliced lemons surrounding the glass.
    Overhead view of a Sidecar cocktail in a martini glass, placed on a wicker coaster. The backdrop is blue, with sliced lemons surrounding the glass.

    A Roarin’ Twenties Toast in a Glass

    The Sidecar cocktail is a delicious drink that is sure to impress. With its balanced flavour profile, stunning appearance, versatility, and rich history, it is no wonder this classic cocktail continues to be a popular choice among cocktail enthusiasts. Whether you’re a longtime cocktail lover or a newcomer to the world of mixology, the Sidecar is a must-try drink that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

    Direct view of a Sidecar cocktail in a martini glass, placed on a wicker coaster. The backdrop is blue, with sliced lemons surrounding the glass.

    Sidecar Cocktail

    Step back in time and add some glamour to your glass with this vintage Sidecar cocktail recipe. The perfect blend of sweet and sour, this 1920s classic will transport you to the golden age of cocktails with every sip.
    No ratings yet
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes mins
    Total Time 5 minutes mins
    Course Cocktails, Drinks
    Cuisine American, French
    Servings 1 serving

    Equipment

    • 1 cocktail shaker

    Ingredients
      

    • 2 oz Cognac or Brandy
    • 1 oz Cointreau
    • 3/4 oz Lemon juice freshly squeezed
    • Superfine sugar for garnish, optional
    • Lemon twist for garnish, optional

    Instructions
     

    • Cut a lemon wedge and run the edge around the rim of your glass. Dip the rim into superfine sugar. Chill the glass until ready to use.
    • In a shaker, add Cognac, Cointreau and lemon juice. Fill with ice and shake for 10-15 seconds.
    • Strain into prepared chilled glass. Garnish with a lemon twist and enjoy!
    Keyword Bourbon, Brandy, cocktail recipes, Cognac, Cognac Cocktail, Sidecar Cocktail
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

    This post contains affiliate links and I may receive commissions for purchases made through these links. However, please know that I only provide links to products that I love and truly recommend.

    If you like this blog post, be sure to subscribe to this blog, follow me on Instagram and use the hashtag #cashmereandcocktailsblog so I can give your post some love. Looking for food photography tips and tricks? Subscribe to my YouTube channel and never miss out on the action!

    Content you may also like:

    Beverage, Recipes

    Primary Sidebar

    Footer

    • Email
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube

    cashmereandcocktailsblog

    New on the Cashmere & Cocktails IG account:

    Looks like it’s time to spike the eggnog again. Looks like it’s time to spike the eggnog again. 

Getting through the festive season sounds much more tolerable with some extra cheer in my cup. Special shout-out to my fellow content creators. I hope you’re all still hanging on ‘cause let’s be real: Q4 = 9th circle of hell. 

Cheers to surviving the holidays! 🥂

#spikedeggnog #eggnog #eggnogseason #eggnogrecipe #eggnogcocktail #eggnogtime #christmasreel #christmasreels #christmasreelsofinstagram #holidayreel #holidayreels #reelsholiday #reelschristmas #holidaysarecoming #holidaysarehere #holidaysarehard #christmasiscoming #christmasishere #christmasisnear #christmasiscomingsoon #christmasisalmosthere #survivingtheholidays
    Me rocking a purple wig & sipping on a lavender gi Me rocking a purple wig & sipping on a lavender gin fizz is proof that whatever dignity I was holding onto has evaporated into a Lavender Haze 🫠💜

Full recipe details below 👇

Lavender Gin Fizz {Lavender Haze}

• 2 oz @empress1908gin 
• ¾ oz lemon juice, fresh
• ¾ oz lavender simple syrup
• 1 egg white
• club soda, to top off
• lavender sprig, optional

1. Add gin, lemon juice, lavender simple syrup and egg white to a shaker. Dry shake vigorously for 15 seconds (which is about how long I have left of my sanity 😵‍💫).
2. Add ice to the shaker and shake for 30 seconds.
3. Strain into a coupe.
4. Top with club soda. Garnish with lavender sprig and serve immediately.

 #purplehairdontcare #lavenderhaze #lavender #lavenderhair #lavenderdrink #lavendercocktail #lavendercocktails #ginfizz #ginrecipe #ginrecipes #gindrinks #gindrink #empressgin #purpledrinks #holidaycocktail #holidaycocktails #holidayrecipes #holidayrecipe #recipeshare #recipeshares #recipereel #recipereels #recipereelsofinstagram #taylorswiftedits #taylorswiftlyrics #taylorswiftmidnights
#recipevideos #recipevideo #reelrecipe #reelsrecipe
    Getaway Car (get-uh-wey kahr 🔊): a poor schmuck Getaway Car (get-uh-wey kahr 🔊): a poor schmuck you use to get out of your current relationship. 
“I needed to break up with Galvin, so I used Dom as a getaway car.”

If this sounds like you, make this cocktail👇 (recipe below)

Sidecar {Getaway Car}

- 2 oz brandy or cognac
- 1 oz orange liqueur
- 1 oz lemon juice, fresh
- Sugar, for garnish
- Lemon twist, for garnish

1. Rim a glass using a lemon wedge & sugar. Much like your emotions, set the glass aside.
2. Add brandy, orange liqueur, lemon juice & ice to a shaker. Shake vigorously until the shaker is cold & the bad karmic energy of your actions has been expelled. 💫
3. Strain the cocktail into the glass. Garnish with a lemon twist & pretend nothing happened. 🥂

#recipereel #recipereels #recipereelsofinstagram #taylorswiftreputation #taylorswiftlyrics #cocktailinspiration #cocktailinspo #sidecar #getawaycar #holidaycocktails #holidaycocktail #holidayrecipes #holidayrecipe #recipeshare #recipesharing #reelsrecipe #reelrecipe #recipeoftheweek #recipevideo #recipevideos #taylorswiftsongs #funnycaptions
    This one’s for my girlies haunted by the memory This one’s for my girlies haunted by the memory of a relationship they mega regret. Grab your pitchforks, ladies. We ride at dawn. 

👇Full Recipe Below

The Devil’s Margarita {Would’ve Could’ve Should’ve}

- 1 ½ oz tequila blanco
- 1 oz lime juice, fresh
- 1 oz simple syrup
- ½ oz red wine

1. Fill the shaker with ice. Add tequila, lime juice and simple syrup. 
2. Shake until it’s as cold as your ex’s heart 🥶(approx. 30 seconds). Pour into glass.
3. Set a spoon at a 45 degree angle over the glass, with the back of the spoon facing the heavens.
4. Pretending it’s the blood of your foes, slowly drizzle the wine over the margarita until you have approx ¼ red wine on the top.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge and enjoy!

#recipereel #recipereels #taylorswiftmidnights #margarita #margaritas #recipevideo #recipevideos #recipeoftheweek #recipesharing #reelsrecipe #reelstrend #taylorswiftlyrics #wouldvecouldveshouldve #cheers🍷 #cheerscocktail #cheers🍸
    Follow on Instagram

    Copyright © 2025 Cashmere & Cocktails on the Cravings Pro Theme

    We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
    Cookie settingsACCEPT
    Manage consent

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
    CookieDurationDescription
    cookielawinfo-checbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
    cookielawinfo-checbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
    cookielawinfo-checbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
    viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
    Functional
    Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
    Performance
    Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
    Analytics
    Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
    Advertisement
    Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
    Others
    Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
    SAVE & ACCEPT

    Rate This Recipe

    Your vote:




    A rating is required
    A name is required
    An email is required