The term “sidecar” in the context of a cocktail refers to a small glass that is served alongside the main drink. It is not to be confused with the term used for a type of motorcycle attachment. In the world of mixology, a sidecar is typically used when the bartender has poured more liquid into the shaker than can fit in the serving glass.
Imagine this: You walk into a bustling cocktail bar and order a sidecar. The bartender skillfully combines the ingredients – typically brandy, orange liqueur, and lemon juice – in a shaker with ice. They then strain the mixture into a martini glass, but oh, there's just a little bit more left in the shaker. Rather than wasting any of the precious concoction, the bartender pours that extra bit into a small shot glass on the side. That shot glass is the sidecar.
The sidecar is essentially a bonus drink that comes alongside your main cocktail. It's a little extra something that allows you to savor every drop of your drink. It can be enjoyed as a separate shot or sipped alongside the main drink, complementing the flavors and enhancing the overall experience.
While the concept of a sidecar originated as a way to avoid wasting any cocktail, it has since become a tradition in the world of mixology. It adds a touch of elegance and generosity to the presentation of the drink. It's like receiving a little gift from the bartender, a small taste of something extra to enjoy.
In addition to the practical purpose of avoiding waste, the sidecar also serves as a visual cue for the bartender. It signals that they may need to adjust their measurements for future servings to ensure that the drink is poured perfectly without any excess left in the shaker.
The idea of a sidecar can also be extended beyond the traditional cocktail recipe. Some bars and bartenders have embraced the concept and created their own variations. For example, they may serve a sidecar of a different spirit or a complementary liqueur alongside the main drink. This allows the drinker to experiment with different flavor combinations and tailor their experience to their own preferences.
When a drink comes with a sidecar, it means that a small glass of the excess liquid from the shaker is served alongside the main cocktail. It adds an element of generosity, avoids waste, and allows the drinker to enjoy every last drop of their drink. It's a delightful tradition in the world of mixology that adds an extra touch of elegance to the drinking experience. So next time you order a sidecar, relish in the knowledge that you're not just getting one drink, but a little something extra on the side.