Bourbon Sidecar

By Melissa Search Jump to Recipe

A true classic, the Bourbon Sidecar combines whiskey and orange liqueur, for a bold, citrusy cocktail.

The Bourbon Sidecar is a twist on the classic Sidecar Cocktail, which traditionally uses brandy or cognac instead of whiskey. While the other ingredients remain the same, the flavor differs due to the base spirit. Brandy is made from fermented fruit, whereas bourbon whiskey is produced from grains, giving it a warm, vanilla flavor. The Bourbon Sidecar is rich and smooth, featuring a hint of sweetness paired with a pleasing sour citrus taste.

The history of the original Sidecar is somewhat debated, with claims from two of the world’s most prestigious cities: London and Paris. One story suggests that it was created at a bar in Paris, while another account claims that the recipe was invented by a bartender at Buck’s Club in London. A number of stories suggest it was crafted for a customer who used to arrive at the bar in a sidecar attached to a motorbike. Whichever origin is true, the Sidecar has stood the test of time and remains popular even 100 years later, now with a number of variations, too—just like this one.

What Is The Best Alcohol To Use In A Bourbon Sidecar?

It’s no surprise that, in the Bourbon Sidecar, the bourbon is the star. Because of this, you do not want to use cheap whiskey. Go for a higher-end Kentucky bourbon. If you like sweet, I recommend Maker’s Mark, which works nicely with the citrus in the Sidecar. It is usually just under $30. If you want something a little bold, spicier, and a bit pricier, try Bulleit Bourbon. This bourbon has only been around for about 30 years but has grown rapidly in popularity.

Keep the same thing in mind for the orange liqueur. The Bourbon Sidecar really only has two ingredients, so the flavor will change considerably depending on your choice of alcohol. I use Cointreau for a Bourbon Sidecar, which is rich, a tad sweet, and has a higher ABV than triple sec. If you only have triple sec or curaçao, go for it, but you can’t untaste the difference between these and a higher-quality orange liqueur.

WHAT GLASSWARE AND GARNISH ARE USED?

Serve your Bourbon Sidecar in a chilled coupe or cocktail glass and garnish with a simple lemon twist on the rim.

CAN I MAKE A SIDECAR WITH VODKA INSTEAD?

You sure can! If bourbon is not your thing, simply substitute it with vodka. Keep in mind that you will want to use a higher-end vodka like Grey Goose or even Ketel One. Also, you may want to add a half ounce of simple syrup and/or a sugar rim since you will be missing out on the warm flavors of the bourbon.

Similar Drinks To The Bourbon Sidecar

If vintage and classy are your vibe, you’re likely to add the Bourbon Sidecar to your drink recipe rotation. This rich cocktail can get the job done without filling you up with mixers or overly sweet fruit juice. Here are some other favorites of ours at Twist and Toast that we know you’re going to love:

• Bourbon Manhattan – Another spin on a classic cocktail, created in an unforgettable city.
• Bourbon Sour – A refreshingly tart and sweet cocktail, which has the flavors of the Bourbon Sidecar, but with training wheels and not as strong.
• Between The Sheets – Feeling frisky? This fun cocktail takes an original Sidecar and adds an ounce of light rum.
• Blue Long Island – This fierce cocktail has the taste of citrus like the Bourbon Sidecar, but uses five different liquors.