Between the Sheets - A strong and elegant classic cocktail where rum, cognac and orange liqueur are balanced with citrus. It is an aromatic mix that combines the character of Sidecar and Daiquiri style cocktails.
Between the Sheets is one of the classic cocktails that emerged in the European bar culture of the 1920s. Most sources state that the cocktail was created at the famous Harry's New York Bar in Paris. This bar became one of the birthplaces of many important cocktails thanks to the bartenders who came to Europe from America, especially during Prohibition.
The name of the cocktail is quite remarkable and has been the subject of many different stories over the years. The phrase "Between the Sheets" means "between the sheets" in English, giving the cocktail a fun and somewhat provocative name. This name is seen as a detail reflecting the liberated nightlife of the 1920s and the bar culture of the period.
From a recipe perspective, Between the Sheets is actually a combination of two classic cocktails. The rum and citrus balance of the Daiquiri and the cognac and orange liqueur structure of the Sidecar come together in this cocktail. It therefore has both a fruity and strong character.
“Sometimes the most interesting stories in life start when people least expect them.”
Rum gives the cocktail a light tropical base, while cognac adds deeper and more complex flavors. Triple sec combines these two strong spirits with orange flavor. Lemon juice balances the sweetness and gives the drink a fresh finish.
Today, Between the Sheets is one of the drinks most frequently featured in classic cocktail books and especially served on classic bar menus. Its strong yet balanced structure makes it an interesting alternative for both rum and cognac lovers.
🍋
Ingredients
Unit System
30 mlWhite Rum
30 mlCognac
30 mlTriple Sec
20 mlFresh Lemon Juice
SomeIce
🍸
Method
1
Add white rum, cognac, triple sec and fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
2
Shake vigorously with plenty of ice.
3
Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
4
Serve with orange peel, if desired.
💡
Bartender Tips
🍋
Fresh lemon juice is the most important component that determines the balance of the cocktail.
🍊
A quality triple sec makes the orange flavor more pronounced.
🧊
Shaking the shaker vigorously gives the cocktail a silky texture.
Old Cuban is an elegant and fresh cocktail made with rum, fresh lime juice, mint and champagne. It combines the aromatic character of a mojito with the sparkling elegance of a French 75. It offers a balanced, fresh and sophisticated drink.
Mary Pickford is a tropical and slightly sweet classic cocktail made with white rum, pineapple juice and maraschino liqueur. With its fruity aroma and smooth drink, it is one of the early examples of tiki style cocktails.
Zombie is a strong tiki cocktail made with multiple rums, tropical fruit juices and aromatic syrups. Behind the fruity and exotic flavors is a very high alcohol content. This is why it is considered one of the most iconic and powerful cocktails in tiki bar culture.