Build at a glance
This version uses 4 ingredients across 4 steps. For a home bar, that makes it manageable rather than fussy.

The Sidecar is the definitive Cognac sour: a golden trio of cognac, triple sec, and fresh lemon juice shaken hard and served straight up. A light sugar rim is optional, but the magic is the seamless balance of bright citrus, orange-liqueur sweetness, and warming oak from the brandy. Timeless, elegant, and aromatic, this Sidecar recipe is a must-know for fans of sophisticated, spirit-forward classics.
Glass:
Coupe
Strength
Sponsor the "Sidecar" recipe and reach an engaged audience.
Rim a chilled coupe with sugar and set aside.
OptionalAdd cognac, triple sec, lemon juice, and sugar syrup to a shaker with ice.
Shake hard for 12–15 seconds until well chilled.
Double strain into the coupe and garnish with a lemon twist.
Loading rating...
Log in to rate this recipe. Log in
Select ingredients in your bar to see what you can make.
Editorial Notes
The Sidecar combines Cognac, Triple Sec, and Lemon Juice. These quick notes add context on structure, flavor, and where the drink fits best.
Updated Dec 22, 2025 • 4 ingredients • 4 steps
This version uses 4 ingredients across 4 steps. For a home bar, that makes it manageable rather than fussy.
Expect sweet, spirit forward, and citrusy notes. Served in a Coupe, the drink lands spirit-forward and more evening-leaning and keeps its structure clear.
This style fits after-dinner pours and slower evening rounds. If you already enjoy Liqueur cocktails, it is an easy recipe to keep in rotation.