The French Connection cocktail recipe blends two ingredients – cognac and amaretto liqueur – for a sophisticated and tasty blend. And it’s a wonderful sipping experience.

History of the French Connection cocktail

This drink was named after the 1971 Gene Hackman movie of the same name. The inventor is unknown.

Ingredients

The ingredients of this one have stayed the same since it came to be. But you will see various recipes with different ideas about the ratio of ingredients.

Some suggest equal parts cognac and amaretto, for example. However you choose to make it, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Cognac (preferably VS or VSOP)
• Amaretto
• Ice cubes
• Orange twist or cherry for garnish (optional)

Best Cognacs and Whiskeys for French Connection

With a two-ingredient drink, the taste of both ingredients is going to shine through. Choosing the right spirits is crucial to achieving the perfect French Connection cocktail. Here are a few recommendations for Cognac.

Hennessy VS: Hennessy VS is often enjoyed neat or mixed in cocktails. Despite being the youngest cognac of the range, it’s a product of expert craftsmanship and careful maturation, making it a popular choice among cognac enthusiasts.

Rémy Martin VSOP: On the nose, Rémy Martin offers an abundance of fruit and floral notes with hints of vanilla and licorice. On the palate, it’s smooth and full-bodied with a long finish. Flavors of ripe fruits like apricots and peaches are prominent, followed by subtle notes of oak and sweet vanilla.

Courvoisier VS: The nose of Courvoisier VS is filled with youthful, fresh aromas of fruit, soft spices, and florals, typically hinting at spring blossoms, ripe peaches, and toasted almonds. On the palate, it’s well-rounded with a smoky richness and depth from the aged eaux-de-vie, showing flavors like wood, almonds, and a hint of sweet fruit.

Serving and Pairing

The French Connection cocktail is best served in an old-fashioned glass over ice. Its smooth and sophisticated flavor profile pairs well with various dishes and occasions. Here are a few serving and pairing suggestions:

• Serve alongside a cheese platter with a selection of French cheeses like Brie, Camembert, and Roquefort.
• Enjoy as an aperitif before a French-inspired meal of Coq au Vin or Beef Bourguignon.
• Serve at a cocktail party alongside elegant canapés like smoked salmon blinis or mini croque-monsieurs.
• Pair with a decadent chocolate dessert like a rich chocolate mousse or flourless chocolate cake.

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