French Connection
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French Connection
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.7 / 5
The French Connection is a sophisticated and smooth cocktail that epitomizes the spirit of France with its choice of spirits. It combines the sweet almond-flavored liqueur Amaretto with the rich and complex flavors of Cognac, resulting in a harmonious blend that's both warming and aromatic. This cocktail is typically served in a lowball glass, providing an elegant presentation that matches the refined character of its contents. The French Connection is favored for its simplicity and depth of flavor, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a cocktail experience that is both indulgent and straightforward.
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Microbadges

IBA Official Drink
Cocktail Of The Day
Base ingredient
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Cognac
Calories
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200 calories
Alcohol content
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34% | 2.38 units *

Lowball glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

The French Connection effortlessly marries the nutty sweetness of Amaretto with the rich complexity of Cognac. This cocktail exudes sophistication with its streamlined, potent concoction that warms the palate and heart with every refined sip.

Method
How to make a French Connection

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Pour all ingredients directly into lowball glass with ice cubes
Stir gently and serve

Power tips
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Serve this cocktail over a single large ice cube to maintain its chill without quickly diluting the drink. Large ice cubes melt slower and keep the flavors intact.
Warm the cognac slightly before mixing. Letting it sit at room temperature for a few minutes brings out its complex flavors and aromas, which blend beautifully with the Amaretto.
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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Stir  · 

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FAQ's

Origins history icon

What is the origin of the French Connection cocktail?

The French Connection cocktail is believed to have originated in the 1970s, gaining popularity alongside the famous film of the same name. Its simple mix of Amaretto and Cognac highlights the flavors of France and Italy, making it a staple in bars worldwide.

Ingredient specifics icon

Can you use any type of Cognac for the French Connection?

Yes, you can use any type of Cognac for the French Connection cocktail. However, for an optimal taste experience, it's recommended to use a VS (Very Special) or VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) grade Cognac, as they offer a balance of flavor and smoothness that complements the Amaretto.

Preparation techniques icon

Why is the French Connection stirred and not shaken?

The French Connection is stirred instead of shaken to prevent over-dilution and to maintain the rich, smooth flavors of the Cognac and Amaretto. Stirring gently combines the ingredients while preserving their viscosity and integrity, resulting in a more refined cocktail experience.

Serving suggestions icon

What is the best way to serve a French Connection?

The best way to serve a French Connection is in a lowball glass, over ice. This allows the cocktail to stay cool while the slow dilution from the ice subtly changes the flavor profile, enhancing the drinking experience. Serving it cold also emphasizes the depth of the Amaretto and Cognac.

Alcohol content comparison icon

How does the alcohol content in a French Connection compare to other cocktails?

With an alcohol content of 34%, the French Connection is considered a strong cocktail. Its content is higher than many standard mixed drinks but similar to other spirit-forward cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Martini. Its strength is balanced by the rich, complementary flavors of Amaretto and Cognac.

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