Between the Sheets
A spirit-forward classic of cognac, rum and Cointreau, sharpened with fresh lemon.
Ingredients
- Cognac, preferably a VS or VSOP22.5 ml
- White rum22.5 ml
- Cointreaue.g. Cointreau22.5 ml
- Lemon juice, freshly squeezed22.5 ml
- Orange, for garnish, orange peel (optional)1 twist
Method
- Chill a cocktail glass in the freezer or with ice water.
- Pour the cognac, rum, Cointreau and fresh lemon juice into a shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake hard for 10–15 seconds.
- Double-strain into the chilled glass for a silky texture.
- Express an orange peel over the drink and add the peel as a garnish.
About this drink
Between the Sheets is thought to date from 1930s Paris, often attributed to Harry’s New York Bar or Savoy bartender Harry Craddock. It sits stylistically between a Sidecar and a Daiquiri, but a double base of cognac and rum gives it characteristic strength and depth. Its name cheekily alludes to the drink’s ability to send one straight to bed.
Questions and answers
What sort of drink is Between the Sheets?
It is a Sidecar with a twist: equal parts cognac, white rum, Cointreau and lemon, shaken ice-cold. The rum adds a sweet depth that a classic Sidecar does not have.
What can you use if you do not have white rum?
A light, dry white rum stays in the background and lets the cognac and Cointreau lead. Dark or spiced rum takes up too much space and sends the drink in an entirely different direction.
