How to Make the Stinger Cocktail

The Stinger cocktail is one of the classics! It might not be so popular today, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have its fans! The drink is made with cognac and white crème de menthe which might not seem to go together but somehow it just works!

The Stinger cocktail is said to have originated in the early 1900s and quickly became a favorite. This could be because it was supposedly invented by a Vanderbilt, Reginald Vanderbilt to be exact, in New York City. This was 1923, pre-Wall Street crash of 1929 and Prohibition.

After Prohibition, the Stinger was a favorite digestive in the 1940s and 1950s and made it into popular culture. It features in High Society starring Grace Kelly, Frank Sinatra, and Bing Crosby, and it’s actually James Bond choice of cocktail in the novel Diamonds Are Forever.

If you are looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail, the Stinger cocktail is the perfect choice. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious drink that is perfect for any occasion.

What goes into a Stinger?

The Stinger Cocktail only requires two main ingredients: brandy and white crème de menthe. The recipe is simple and easy to make, but the quality of the ingredients is crucial.

• Cognac: You can use any type of brandy, not just cognac, but please use only premium.
• White crème de menthe: This is a very sweet, mint-flavored liqueur which cuts through the brandy and adds a refreshing and cooling sensation to the cocktail. Don’t forget this is white not green crème de menthe!
• Ice: Don’t skimp on good ice! It is also an essential ingredient in the Stinger Cocktail. It is used to chill the drink and dilute the alcohol, making it smoother and more enjoyable. Crushed ice is often preferred, but you can use ice cubes!
• Mint Sprig: These just enhance the sensory enjoyment of the creme de menthe

What tools you need to make Stinger

You won’t be needing a cocktail shaker for this one! Grab a mixing glass, a strainer, a jigger, a barspoon, and a rocks glass for this Stinger recipe.

Here are the steps to make the perfect stinger cocktail:

Step 1: Mix the drinks

Add 2 ounces of cognac and 1 ounce of white creme de menthe to a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir the ingredients until they are well-blended and chilled. If you don’t have a cocktail shaker, you can use another lidded container, like a Mason jar.

Step 2: Prepare the glass

Take the rocks glass and fill it with crushed ice.

Step 3: Strain the mixture

Strain the mixture from the mixing into the rocks glass over the crushed ice. You can use a fine-mesh strainer to remove any ice shards that may have come loose during shaking.

Step 4: Garnish the cocktail

For a classic look, garnish the cocktail with a sprig of fresh mint. You can also add a twist of lemon peel for an extra burst of flavor.

Bottom’s up!

🍸Top Tips:

• Experiment with different types of brandy – While cognac is the traditional choice for a Stinger, you can experiment with other types of brandy to find the one that suits your taste. For example, apple brandy can add a fruity twist to the cocktail, while grape brandy can provide a more robust flavor.
• Use fresh mint for a brighter taste – While crème de menthe is a key ingredient in the Stinger, using fresh mint can add a brighter, more herbaceous taste to the cocktail. Muddle a few mint leaves in the shaker before adding the other ingredients, or use a mint-infused simple syrup instead of crème de menthe.

Variations on the Stinger

Frozen Stinger

If you prefer your cocktails frozen, try making a Frozen Stinger by blending the ingredients with ice in a belnder. Serve in a chilled glass for a refreshing treat.

Chocolate Stinger

If you have a sweet tooth, try making a Chocolate Stinger by adding a splash of chocolate liqueur to the traditional recipe. This variation is perfect for after-dinner drinks or as a dessert cocktail.

Why Lush Life loves a Stinger!

I love these out-of-fashion classic cocktails like a Stinger, Grasshopper or Brandy Alexander. They had their day and I truly believe the Stinger’s popularity will return! Try it and you will be surprised how refreshing it is!!

Where to find more liqueur cocktail recipes

Here are a few of my favorites:

• How to Make the Grasshopper
• How to Make the Brandy Alexander
• How to Make the Reverend Hubert Winter Gin Liqueur Negroni

 Plus more brandy recipes here

Here is the recipe!

Pin it for later

Love this recipe?

Follow me on Pinterest for loads of great recipes and much more!! Just click the little red pin button at the top of the recipe card!