The French Connection

The French Connection is a simple yet sophisticated cocktail. This two-ingredient cocktail combines cognac and amaretto liqueur to create a sweet and nutty flavor profile that’s perfect for sipping after dinner or as a nightcap. 

Cognac, a type of brandy made from distilled wine, provides the base spirit for the French Connection. The fruity and slightly sweet notes of the cognac are complemented by the almond and fruit flavors of the amaretto liqueur, which is made from almonds and stone-fruit pits. 

To make the drink, simply stir together equal parts cognac and amaretto in a rocks glass with ice. The dilution from the ice helps to mellow out the strong flavors of the base spirits, making for a smooth and enjoyable sip. Some bartenders also recommend using a brandy snifter instead of a rocks glass to enhance the drink’s aroma and flavor.

History

The French Connection cocktail is a two-ingredient cocktail made with cognac and amaretto liqueur. It was named after the 1971 Gene Hackman film of the same name. The cocktail’s creator is unknown, so it’s unclear who to thank for this tasty concoction.

As it turns out, very little is known about the history of the French Connection Cocktail. While it is supposedly named after the iconic film that debuted in 1971, I could find no definitive story of a bartender in a French bistro who concocted it with a purpose.

The French Connection cocktail is commonly served as an after-dinner drink in a brandy snifter. It is a nightcap that is perfect for sipping slowly and enjoying the flavors of the base spirit.

The French Connection cocktail is a popular drink among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts. It is a classic two-ingredient cocktail that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The cocktail has been around for decades and is still enjoyed by many today. It is also one of the IBA Official Cocktails, which means it is recognized as a classic cocktail by the International Bartenders Association.

How to Make It

Variations

The French Connection is a classic two-ingredient cocktail that has been around for decades. However, there are many variations of this drink that you can try to mix things up. Here are a few variations to consider:

French Connection No. 2

If you want to switch things up but still keep it simple, try the French Connection No. 2. This variation replaces the amaretto with Grand Marnier, an orange-flavored liquor with hints of vanilla and oak. The result is a slightly sweeter and fruitier version of the classic French Connection.

French Connection Coffee

For a boozy after-dinner drink, try the French Connection Coffee. This spiced coffee is made with Cognac and amaretto and is a nice option for dessert, especially if topped with whipped cream and almonds.

Godfather

If you’re a fan of whiskey, you might enjoy the Godfather. This after-dinner cocktail is made with Scotch and amaretto liqueur and is typically served neat or on the rocks. It’s a bit stronger than the French Connection but still has a sweet and nutty flavor.

B&B

Another popular after-dinner drink is the B&B, which is made with Cognac and Bénédictine, an herbal liqueur. This drink is a bit more complex than the French Connection but still has a sweet and spicy flavor.

Disaronno Sour

If you’re looking for a variation that’s a bit lighter, try the Disaronno Sour. This cocktail is made with Disaronno, a popular Italian liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup. It’s a refreshing and fruity drink that’s perfect for a hot summer day.