The Stinger: A Classic Cognac and Mint Cocktail
Smooth, Cool, and Timeless: The Stinger is a cocktail of effortless elegance—just Cognac and crème de menthe, shaken into a silky, mint-kissed sipper. It’s a drink that has endured for over a century, known for its cooling freshness and after-dinner appeal.
Background
The Stinger emerged in the late 1800s, first appearing in print in William Schmidt’s The Flowing Bowl (1891). It quickly gained traction as a favorite among New York high society and was often served as a digestif. Its reputation as a “gentleman’s cocktail” carried through the early 20th century, though its simplicity eventually won it a broader audience. By the mid-20th century, the Stinger was a staple in hotel lounges, supper clubs, and home cocktail parties.
Traditionally made with Cognac, later variations substituted brandy for accessibility. Today, Cognac remains the gold standard, lending the drink its luxurious depth.
What You’ll Need
- Cognac – the rich, velvety backbone of the drink, with notes of fruit, oak, and spice.
- White Crème de Menthe – a mint liqueur that brings a sweet, cooling freshness and rounds off the spirit’s intensity.
Served chilled, either up in a cocktail glass or over ice in a rocks glass, this two-ingredient drink is all about balance.
A Cooling Contrast
The magic of the Stinger lies in contrast: warming Cognac meets refreshing mint. Unlike many digestifs, it’s not heavy or cloying—the mint brightens the brandy, creating a drink that’s both indulgent and easy to sip.
Substitutions & Variations
- Brandy Swap: Use regular brandy instead of Cognac for a more accessible version.
- Green Crème de Menthe: For a sweeter, bolder mint flavor and a touch of color, swap in green crème de menthe.
- Over Ice: Though often served up, some prefer a Stinger on the rocks for slower sipping.
- Modern Twists: Try aging the mix in a small oak cask for a richer, rounder profile—or use barrel-aged crème de menthe for added complexity.
Helpful Tips
- Chill Well: Shake thoroughly with ice to achieve the smoothest texture.
- Glassware Choice: For an elegant finish, serve up in a chilled cocktail glass. For casual sipping, pour over crushed ice in a rocks glass.
- Perfect Ratio: Stick to the classic 3:1 Cognac to crème de menthe ratio for balance.
- Food Pairings: The Stinger pairs beautifully with chocolate desserts or strong cheeses like Roquefort.
Stinger Recipe
Type of Glass
Cocktail Glass
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz.
- 1/2 oz. White Crème de Menthe
Directions
- Shake ingredients with ice.
- Strain into a cocktail glass and serve.
The Stinger may be simple, but its charm lies in refinement. With Cognac’s warmth and mint’s cool sweetness, this cocktail has earned its place as both a refreshing aperitif and a smooth after-dinner drink. A true classic that proves less can indeed be more.
