Shanghai Cocktail (Brandy Sour with Orange Liqueur & Bitters)

The Shanghai Cocktail is a refined brandy sour that leans on citrus and subtle spice for balance. With orange liqueur and bitters rounding out the profile, it delivers a clean, structured drink that works just as well before dinner as it does at the end of the night.

Background

The Shanghai Cocktail appears in early 20th-century cocktail books, during a time when brandy-based sours were widely popular. While its exact origin is unclear, the name reflects the era’s fascination with international ports and cosmopolitan drinking culture. It shares DNA with the Sidecar but stands apart with the addition of bitters for extra complexity.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

• Brandy – the rich, warming base that carries the drink
• Orange liqueur – adds sweetness and citrus depth
• Lemon juice – brings brightness and structure
• Angostura bitters – adds spice and ties the flavors together

Substitution ideas:

• No orange liqueur? Use triple sec or curaçao
• No brandy? Cognac is the closest match

Equipment

• Shaker
• Jigger
• Fine strainer
• Cocktail glass

What Makes This One Stand Out

Unlike a standard brandy sour, the Shanghai Cocktail uses bitters to add a subtle layer of spice and structure. That small addition sharpens the citrus and keeps the sweetness in check, giving the drink a more polished, balanced finish.

Substitutions & Variations

• Swap brandy for cognac for a richer, more refined version
• Use orange bitters alongside Angostura for a brighter aromatic profile
• Add a sugar rim if you prefer a slightly sweeter, more classic sour presentation

Helpful Tips

• Use fresh lemon juice—this drink depends on clean acidity
• Chill your glass ahead of time to keep the texture crisp
• Fine strain for a smoother finish and better presentation
• Express the lemon peel over the drink to add aroma without extra sweetness