Godfather

The Godfather is traditionally a duo made of equal parts Scotch Whisky and Amaretto. A higher proportion of Johnnie Walker Black Label gives this twist a smokey edge.

Godfather

Ingredients

  • 40ml

    Johnnie Walker Black Label

  • 10ml

    Amaretto

  • 1

    Maraschino Cherry (Garnish)

  • 1

    Orange Peel (Garnish)

0 units of alcohol per serve

Equipment

  • 1

    Rocks Glass

  • 1

    Ice Scoop

  • 1

    Jigger

  • 1

    Mixing Glass

  • 1

    Julep Strainer

  • 1

    Bar Spoon

  • 1

    Tongs

Serves:
1

Method

  • Preparation
    1. Stir all in the ingredients in an Ice-filled Mixing Glass.
    2. Strain into an Ice-filled Rocks Glass.
    3. Garnish with a Maraschino Cherry and an Orange Peel.
  • Alcohol content

    Alcohol content

    21.9 g per serve

Interesting facts

The Godfather cocktail is named after the famous 1972 film of the same name, which starred Marlon Brando and Al Pacino. The drink is often associated with the character played by Brando, who famously declared "I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse."

History of the drink

In the 1970s, the disco era was in full swing, and people were looking for a new, exciting drink to enjoy while out on the town. That's when the Godfather cocktail burst onto the scene, quickly becoming a favourite among the disco crowds at Studio 54.
The man behind the drink was bartender Joseph "Joe" Scialom, a skilled mixologist who was known for his creativity and innovation behind the bar. Scialom was inspired by the hit movie The Godfather, which had recently been released and was taking the world by storm. He wanted to create a cocktail that embodied the spirit of the film, and the result was the Godfather cocktail. The cocktail is made with scotch whisky and amaretto and was a hit from the start. Its smooth and sophisticated flavour quickly won over the disco-goers at Studio 54, who were always on the lookout for something new and exciting to try. The Godfather became a symbol of the disco era, representing the glamour and excitement of the times. The Godfather was also favoured by many celebrities, adding to its already impressive reputation. John Travolta, the king of disco himself, was known to enjoy a Godfather or two while out on the town. Mick Jagger was also a fan, often seen sipping on a Godfather while mingling with the crowds at Studio 54.