Cocktail Hour: The Sidecar

Introduction

The Sidecar is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for over a century. It is a simple yet elegant drink that is made with cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice. The Sidecar is a refreshing and flavorful cocktail that is perfect for any occasion.

History of the Sidecar

The Sidecar is said to have been invented in Paris in the early 1900s. There are two competing stories about the drink's creation. One story claims that the Sidecar was created by a bartender at the Ritz Hotel in Paris for an American army captain who had lost his motorcycle sidecar. The other story claims that the Sidecar was created by a bartender at the Café de la Paix in Paris for a customer who wanted a drink that would remind him of his motorcycle sidecar.

Whatever its origins, the Sidecar quickly became a popular drink in Paris and around the world. It was a favorite of many famous people, including Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Marlene Dietrich.

Ingredients

The Sidecar is made with just three ingredients:

* Cognac
* Orange liqueur
* Lemon juice

The proportions of each ingredient can be adjusted to taste. However, a good starting point is to use equal parts of each ingredient.

Instructions

To make a Sidecar, simply combine the ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with an orange twist.

Tips

* Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
* Shake the cocktail well to ensure that the ingredients are properly combined.
* Strain the cocktail into a chilled glass to prevent it from becoming watered down.
* Garnish the cocktail with an orange twist for a touch of elegance.

Variations

There are many variations of the Sidecar. Some popular variations include:

* The White Lady: Made with gin instead of cognac.
* The French 75: Made with sparkling wine instead of lemon juice.
* The Sidecar Sour: Made with egg white for a frothy texture.

Conclusion

The Sidecar is a classic cocktail that is easy to make and delicious to drink. It is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed at any occasion. So next time you are looking for a refreshing and flavorful cocktail, give the Sidecar a try.