The Sidecar cocktail : the timeless combination of Cognac and Triple Sec
Since the 1920s, the Sidecar has been a staple of chic bars. Its recipe is simple, with only three ingredients: Cognac, Triple Sec curaçao and lemon. It appeals with its balance of sweetness, acidity and strength.
It has inspired generations of bartenders and gourmets. This coktail is often mentioned in novels set in the Roaring Twenties (The Big Sleep by Raymond Chandler) and in films depicting the elegance of Parisian and London bars.
Today, the Sidecar cocktail remains a pillar of mixology. It is still a symbol of sophistication, served in the most prestigious establishments.
A story shrouded in mystery
We know that the Sidecar appeared after the First World War, around 1919. It is thought to have Anglo-Saxon origins. But we don’t know exactly who officially created this cocktail.
It seems that three bartenders contributed to the emergence of this cocktail:
The mystery surrounding its creation remains unsolved to this day, as does the origin of its name. Its name is said to be a tribute to a US Army captain whose favourite mode of transport was a motorbike with a sidecar.
Why choose Briottet Cognac and Triple Sec?
French quality and expertise
Briottet Cognac is made from Ugni-Blanc grapes, a prestigious spirit. It is a blend of several eaux-de-vie, the youngest of which has been aged for 9 years in barrels, offering a complex blend of aromas. Briottet Triple Sec, made in Burgundy, is an artisanal bitter orange liqueur made from bitter orange peel and aromatic plants. Its profile is more natural and less sweet than some industrial liqueurs. A true tribute to the French art of living, to be enjoyed as an aperitif with friends.
Perfect balance
Briottet Triple Sec Curaçao, less sweet and more aromatic than others, does not mask the complexity of the Cognac. It brings fresh orange notes without overpowering the woody nuances of the Cognac.
One brings depth and warmth, while the other adds sweetness and fruity aromas.
How should you enjoy a Sidecar cocktail?
Sidecars are usually served in a cocktail glass with sugar around the rim. To keep the sugar on the rim, rub a quarter of a lemon around the edge of the glass. Then dip the glass in fine sugar. It looks pretty and is also interesting because the sweetness contrasts with the acidity.
The Sidecar should be enjoyed chilled, but not ice cold. Ideally between 6 and 8°C. If you have shaken it, serve it immediately after straining the ice!
💡 Good to know: Some people add a touch of sugar syrup to sweeten it, but the original recipe relies on natural balance.
Looking for another recipe idea with Triple Sec?
If you like Sidecars, you’ll probably love Margaritas, another classic citrus-based cocktail. This bold blend of tequila, triple sec and lime juice, served with a touch of salt on the rim of the glass, is just as refreshing and sophisticated. 🍊🍸