ABC

Photo of ABC cocktail

Overview

The ABC is a decadent layered shot that combines the richness of cognac, the creaminess of Baileys Irish Cream, and the sweet almond notes of amaretto.

Preparation Method

Carefully layer equal parts cognac (bottom), Baileys Irish Cream (middle), and amaretto (top) into a shot glass. Pour slowly over the back of a spoon to maintain clean layers. Serve immediately.

Structural Profile and Sensory Characteristics

Structural Breakdown

Flavor Balance and Intensity Breakdown

Sweetness
Acidity
Bitterness
Herbal
Spice
Fruitiness
Smokiness

Organoleptic Profile: Aromatic and Taste Intensity

Cognac
Base spirit Fruit Brandy Backbone Aromatic Depth Provider
Baileys Irish Cream
Creaminess Provider Sweetening Modifier Mouthfeel Builder
Amaretto
Sweetness Driver Nutty Modifier Body Builder

ABC Deep Dive: History, Style, and Use

Serving Style

Serve in a clear shot glass to highlight the three distinct layers: dark cognac, creamy Baileys, and golden amaretto.

Food Pairings

Excellent with desserts like tiramisu, chocolate mousse, pralines, and biscotti.

Origins

The ABC shot is believed to have originated in upscale cocktail bars, becoming a favorite for its elegance and rich flavor layering.

Best Occasions

Perfect for after-dinner drinks, celebratory toasts, or luxury tasting flights.

Tasting Notes

Smooth and velvety, with layered notes of oak, cream, and almond sweetness.

Style & Character

Elegant, indulgent, luxurious — a shot for those who love sophistication even in a single sip.

Variations

Replace amaretto with hazelnut liqueur or Baileys with a chocolate cream liqueur. Try the “built” version by mixing all ingredients instead of layering.

Alcohol Strength

25%

⚠️ Alcoholic beverage: not suitable for minors, pregnant individuals, or designated drivers. Please enjoy responsibly.

Ingredient routes close to ABC

Start from the ingredient that shapes this recipe before moving into broader style, method or glassware lists.

Cocktails with Cognac

Drinks where Cognac shapes the recipe structure.

View list 7 cocktails

After-Dinner cocktails with Cognac

Same ingredient inside the After-Dinner style.

View list 2 cocktails

More cocktail routes built around ABC

Follow the same category, preparation method or glassware logic to compare drinks that behave like ABC in a specific way.

After-Dinner cocktails prepared with the layered method

Cocktails in the After-Dinner category prepared with the layered method.

View list 10 cocktails

After-Dinner cocktails served in a shot glass

Cocktails in the After-Dinner category served in a shot glass.

View list 16 cocktails

Layered cocktails served in a shot glass

Cocktails prepared with the layered method and served in a shot glass.

View list 21 cocktails

After-Dinner layered cocktails served in a shot glass

Cocktails that combine a after-dinner profile, the layered method, and service in a shot glass.

View list 8 cocktails

Cocktails in the same strength range

ABC sits around 25% ABV. Use these routes to compare drinks with a similar drinking weight, then narrow them by style, method or glass.

After-Dinner cocktails

Cocktails in the After-Dinner category with 25–32% ABV.

View list 18 cocktails

Layered cocktails

Cocktails prepared with the Layered method that stay within 25–32% ABV.

View list 13 cocktails

Next paths

Keep exploring ABC

Choose the next route by style, method, glass or ingredient.