Between the Sheets

The Between the Sheets is a classic cocktail made up of equal parts cognac, light rum, and triple sec with freshly squeezed lemon juice and an orange peel garnish.

Essentially a variation on the Sidecar, the provocatively-named drink is thought to have been created by bartender and author Harry MacElhone of Harry’s New York Bar in Paris. There is also a theory that the drink had even earlier origins at the Berkeley Hotel in London and was created around 1921 by a worker there known as “Mr. Polly.” However, because MacElhone is also credited with featuring one of the earliest Sidecar recipes in his 1922 edition of Harry’s ABC of Mixing Cocktails — calling for equal parts cognac, Cointreau, and lemon juice — this is the more accepted origin.

What makes the Between the Sheets work

Though the recipe has gone through many iterations over the years, the classic proportions call for equal parts of cognac, light rum and orange liqueur with a mere splash of lemon juice, producing a highly potent drink. The boozy nature of the cocktail is likely what led to its suggestive name. 

This variation boosts the amount of lemon juice to balance out the three full ounces of liquor and create dimension with increased acidity. Both the cognac and light rum acts as the sturdy base and backbone of the drink while the triple sec, or another orange liqueur of choice, lends a sweet brightness and a touch more alcohol tension. 

The orange peel garnish is an important element, as its expressed oils from the skin contributes a hit of citrus and slight bitterness. 

As with all cocktail recipes, this drink should be balanced to the drinker’s preference. The recipe, as is, skews dry and an addition of simple syrup can be added to taste.