Preparation
- Chill the serving glass. Add the measured ingredients to a shaker.
- Add plenty of solid ice cubes and shake vigorously for about 10–15 seconds.
- Strain through a bar strainer into the chilled glass; the shaking ice stays in the shaker.
What does it taste like?
The first sip tastes citrusy and dry. Sweetness comes solely from the orange liqueur, and it's just enough to balance the acidity. Behind that, two spirits work at once: white rum lends a light sugarcane note, while Cognac contributes warmth and oak notes. The orange liqueur sits between them as a bridge, letting both work together. The drink is strong, no question. For 90 milliliters of spirit there are only 20 milliliters of juice, and you can taste it. Served ice-cold, it still feels lean, since nothing creamy or syrupy sits in the glass.
When does it work best?
Between the Sheets belongs later in the evening, in a small glass. It suits the after-dinner hours better than before. Anyone who likes a Sidecar or Daiquiri will feel right at home. Beginners should know what they're getting into: the cocktail tastes fresh and harmless, but it's strong, and a second round can quickly go one too far.
What matters
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice, not a ready-made sour mix. Pre-made mixes are sweetened, and the orange liqueur already brings enough sweetness. Shake hard with solid ice cubes—ten to fifteen seconds is enough. Shake vigorously with plenty of ice for about 10–15 seconds, until the drink is well chilled and diluted. Pre-chill the glass, since no ice will remain in it once served.
Where the drink comes from
The name Between the Sheets has been around since the interwar period, though it hasn't always stood for the same mix. Early printed versions sometimes call for gin and rum. Only later did the combination of rum and brandy—the one familiar today—become standard. Several bars claim to be its birthplace; the question remains unsettled. The resemblance to the Sidecar is easy to spot, since orange liqueur and lemon meet a brandy there too. The difference here is that two spirits share the base.