Clementine Cinnamon-Rim Sidecar Cocktail
A winter sidecar with brandy, sweet white vermouth and fresh clementine juice, served in a glass with a cinnamon-sugar rim. Shaken and ready in 5 minutes.
A sidecar is a classic cocktail, and clementines make it feel just right for the holidays. The cinnamon sugar on the rim adds warmth. I like it because it only takes a few things and still looks pretty in the glass.
Saúl’s Tip
Shake with plenty of ice for a full 15 seconds, then strain through a fine strainer. This makes the drink cold and slightly diluted, which is what balances the brandy.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh clementine juice. Juice from a carton can taste sharp or flat.
- Rim the glass first so the sugar has a moment to set while you shake.
- Chill the glass in the freezer for 10 minutes if you have time.
- Keep opened vermouth in the fridge. It fades after about a month at room temperature.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Rim the glasses up to 2 hours ahead and keep them dry in a cool spot. For a crowd, mix the brandy, vermouth and clementine juice in a bottle and chill it for up to 1 day. Shake 3 ½ oz of the mix per drink with ice.
Variations
- Non-alcoholic swap: shake 2 oz strong black tea (cooled), 1 oz clementine juice and 1 tsp honey, then strain into the rimmed glass.
- Add 2 dashes of orange bitters for extra depth.
- Use brown sugar in the rim for a deeper caramel taste.
Clementine Cinnamon-Rim Sidecar Cocktail
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the sugar and cinnamon on a small plate.
- Pour 1 tsp clementine juice into a saucer. Turn a coupe or small cocktail glass upside down and dip the rim into the juice.
- Press the wet rim into the cinnamon sugar and turn the glass to coat it. Set the glass upright.
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- Add the brandy, vermouth and ½ oz clementine juice.
- Close the lid and shake hard until the outside of the shaker feels frosty, about 15 seconds.
- Strain (pour through the shaker's built-in strainer to hold back the ice) into the rimmed glass.
- Float a thin clementine wheel on top and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sidecar cocktail?
A sidecar is a short, sour drink made with brandy, orange liqueur and citrus juice. This holiday version swaps in sweet vermouth and clementine juice for a softer, fruitier taste.
Can I use orange juice instead of clementine juice?
Yes. Fresh orange juice works in the same amount. Clementine juice is a bit sweeter and gives a more floral taste.
Which brandy should I use?
Any smooth brandy or cognac you enjoy sipping. You do not need an expensive bottle for a shaken drink.
