Sidecar

Ingredients

• 0.25 cup sugar (optional, for rimming the glass)
• 1 lemon wedge (optional, if using sugar)
• 1.5 oz brandy
• 1 oz orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec)
• 0.75 oz lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 lemon twist (for garnishing)

Steps

1. 1

   Spread the sugar, if using, into an even layer on a small saucer.

2. 2

   Moisten about 1/2 inch of a chilled cocktail glass rim by running a lemon wedge around the outer edge; dry any excess juice with a paper towel.

3. 3

   Roll the moistened rim in the sugar to coat, then remove any excess sugar that falls into the glass and set the glass aside.

4. 4

   Add the brandy, orange liqueur, and lemon juice to a cocktail shaker.

5. 5

   Fill the shaker with ice and shake the mixture until fully combined and well chilled, about 15 seconds.

6. 6

   Double-strain the cocktail into the prepared glass.

7. 7

   Garnish with a lemon twist and serve immediately.

Notes

The sugared rim is a traditional garnish that nods to the 1920s. For a more modern, less sweet profile, you can omit the sugar rim entirely. Double-straining (using a fine-mesh strainer in addition to the shaker's strainer) ensures a smooth drink free of ice shards or lemon pulp.

Nutrition per serving

• drink
• cocktail
• alcoholic
• classic cocktail
• brandy
• citrus