The Godfather cocktail is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of whiskey lovers and cocktail enthusiasts since the 1970s. Named after the iconic film series, this drink combines the robust character of whiskey with the sweet, nutty flavors of Amaretto liqueur, creating a perfectly balanced cocktail that’s both strong and smooth. The beauty of The Godfather lies in its simplicity – with just two quality ingredients and your preferred ratio, you can create an impressive drink that showcases the depth and complexity of its components. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey drinker or just beginning to explore the world of spirits, The Godfather is a must-try cocktail that’s sure to impress.
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The Godfather cocktail is a classic cocktail that was popular in the 1970s, it is believed the popularity of the cocktail had something to do with the Godfather movies.
You don’t have to know much about cocktail mixology to make this drink. Recently, many mixologists have been bringing this cocktail back.
The perfect combination of Whiskey and Amaretto
The Godfather cocktail is well-suited for those who don’t drink many whiskeys or those who want to dip their toes into the wonderful world of whiskey. The Amaretto, with its wonderful almond flavor, balances the whiskey’s heat very nicely.
The magic ratio depends on your preference.
Traditionally, this drink is made with a 1 to 1 ratio of whiskey and Amaretto. For some, this is too sweet. Thanks to the @stoutguy, I prefer a 2 to 1 ratio of whiskey to Amaretto. Other bartenders favor a 3-to-1 ratio of whiskey to Amaretto.
The real secret for this drink is the Luxardo Cherries. They add a complex touch. Some bartenders will use Maraschino cherries, but the Luxardo Cherries are the precursor to the Maraschino cherries.
These Italian cherries aren’t as sweet as the Maraschino cherries. They are rich, dark red, and the perfect accompaniment to many cocktails. If you don’t have any on hand, you could use Maraschino.
Learn how Maraschino cherries came from Luxardo cherries. You can find these cherries at my liquor stores; I have bought them on Amazon.com.
What type of Whiskey should you use for a Godfather cocktail?
There are five broad types of whiskey: Scotch, Bourbon, Irish Whiskey, Canadian Whiskey, and Japanese Whiskey. My preference for this drink is either scotch or bourbon.
I personally prefer a Bourbon Whiskey made from wheat for a Godfather cocktail. You could use a single-grain whiskey like Bernheim or Makers Mark, but you should use what you have on hand!
How strong is a Godfather?
This cocktail only contains alcohol. So, it should be sipped and savored. You could add a bit of club soda to the drink, or you may want to allow the ice to melt if you feel the drink is too strong.
Love Cocktails? Here are more classic cocktail recipes to try
- How to Make the Best Mojito
- How to Make the Best Margarita
- How to Make a Painkiller Drink
- Fleur de Lis Cocktail
- Kahlua Mudslide
- Beer Margaritas Recipe
- Zombie Drink
- Strawberry Bellini
- Mixed Berry Sangria Recipe
- Washington Apple Drink with Crown Royal
Great Cocktail Appetizers
Check out more of my classic drinks and the best copycat recipes.
The Godfather Cocktail
Ingredients
- 1 ounce Amaretto
- 2 ounces whiskey
- 2 Luxardo cherries
- ice cubes
Instructions
- Fill a rocks glass 2/3 full of ice cubes.
- Add Amaretto and whiskey to the glass.
- Stir well.
- If desired add a few drops of Luxardo cherry syrup to the glass.
- Garnish with two or three Luxardo cherries.
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