If there’s one cocktail that captures elegance and effervescence in a glass, it’s the Champagne Sidecar. This sparkling twist on a classic cocktail comes straight from the pages of Bubbly by Colleen Jeffers, a delightful cocktail book overflowing with celebratory drinks for every occasion. Whether you're hosting a festive soirée, toasting to life’s milestones, or simply unwinding at the end of the day, this recipe is an effortless crowd-pleaser for champagne lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
What You'll Need
Raise your glass with these bright, simple ingredients that come together to form a sophisticated and refreshing sip. Here’s what you’ll need to make the Champagne Sidecar:
- 1 oz brandy
- 1 oz orange liquor
- ½ oz lemon juice
- Chilled champagne, to top
- Lemon wheel to garnish
Optional but Fabulous
If you’re feeling extra fancy, garnish your drink with a sprig of fresh thyme alongside the lemon wheel for an aromatic pop.
Instructions
This cocktail is as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Follow these simple steps to bring the Champagne Sidecar to life:
- Add the brandy, orange liquor, and lemon juice to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake well to combine and chill.
- Strain the mixture into your favorite glass (a coupe works beautifully).
- Top with chilled champagne for that sparkling finish.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel—and for an extra touch of flair, add a sprig of thyme.
And there you have it! Sophisticated, bubbly, and irresistibly delicious.
Why We Love the Champagne Sidecar
The Champagne Sidecar blends the nostalgic flavors of brandy and orange liquor with the zesty brightness of lemon juice, creating a perfectly balanced base. But the true star? A celebratory pour of chilled champagne that instantly elevates the drink with effervescence and festivity. Whether it's a quiet evening for two or a lively party of ten, this cocktail is your ticket to effortless elegance.
Discover More Recipes with Bubbly
If you’ve fallen in love with the Champagne Sidecar, you’re going to adore the rest of Bubbly. This stunning gold-covered cocktail book is a guide to mastering the art of sparkling drinks, featuring more than 60 recipes crafted with bright, seasonal flavors and simple techniques. From brunch staples like the Bubbly Mary to party-ready punches like Paloma Punch, this book has a bubbly concoction for every occasion.
Not only will you find recipes, but Jeffers also shares expert tips on selecting the perfect bottle of champagne, keeping carbonation crisp, and even finding dreamy vintage glassware. It’s approachable for beginners yet inventive enough for seasoned mixologists.