There are numerous stories on the Sidecar’s origins. However, Harry’s Bar in Paris is generally credited with inventing the Sidecar for a patron who often rode in the sidecar of a motorcycle. I am grateful to this unknown and unsung mixologist who brought us this cocktail, as it is my personal favorite, and I am eternally grateful to the Bix in San Francisco for introducing me to the wonderful libation.

Like the Martini, the Sidecar has recently experienced a renaissance. The Sidecar was invented in the early 1900s and was popular until the beginning of World War II but, unfortunately, was forgotten by most when the War came to an end. A few years ago, my request for a Sidecar was often met with, “Are you sure? That’s what my grandmother drinks.” Luckily, the Sidecar is now enjoying a renewed popularity and can be easily had at most drinking establishments.

Over the past few years we have diligently attempted to recreate that first wondrous Sidecar at the Bix. Although we never recreated our first Sidecar, we have perfected my personal favorite (listed below) made with equal parts Armagnac (a french brandy very similar to cognac with a mellower taste), cointreau and lime juice.

When we began our Sidecar journey, I had no idea so many types of Sidecars existed. There are Sidecars for those who prefer brandy, cognac, gin, vodka and even irish whiskey. Join me in a toast to the Sidecar with a few of the concoctions listed below. After all, it would be a shame if the noble Sidecar were once again forgotten.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ oz VS or VSOP cognac
• ¾ oz cointreau
• ¾ oz fresh lemon juice

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