A Beautiful is a great way to enjoy Grand Marnier after dinner though with some of the more digestif-like qualities of Cognac. Similar to a Benedictine & Brandy, a Beautiful is just equal parts of Grand Marnier and Cognac undiluted at room temperature. The recipe calls for equal parts but you can adjust this to your taste.
Since this is undiluted you probably want to use a VSOP grade of Cognac or better. A VS may be a little sharp though a good VS might do.
In trying to find the origin of this drink I have references that go back 30 years or more. I don't know exactly when it was invented but my best guess is in the 1970's.
This drink also goes by the name French Connection #2 (the original French Connection being Cognac and Amaretto).