Sign up for the Small Screen Email Newsletter: Be the first to know when new episodes air on our site!The Sidecar is an elegant, refined sip that has a soft spot as my personal favorite cocktail. Its form (a "sour") is shared by who-knows how many other cocktails -- two parts strong, one part sweet, one part sour. Swap the brandy for tequila and you pretty much have a Margarita (up next). It's traditional to moisten the glass rim with lemon and dip the rim in sugar -- but certainly not necessary. I find the drink plenty sweet on its own. The Sidecar and the Margarita are where you'll understand why a quality triple sec like Cointreau is worth every penny versus a cheaper variety that would overpower the drink with syrupy sweetness. A Parisienne Shaker from Kegworks.com is perfect for mixing up a Sidecar or two!: For the full recipe and instructions, watch this video on Small Screen: Grab a copy of Home Bar Basics: Recipe:1 12 oz brandy or Cognac1 oz triple sec1 oz lemon juiceInstructions:Shake well with ice to blend and chill.Strain into the chilled glass.Garnish with a lemon wheel.