Green Stinger Cocktail – Brandy & Crème de Menthe Classic
A Green Stinger is a refreshing brandy cocktail with a cooling mint twist, simple to mix and perfect for sipping in style.

The Green Stinger cocktail combines brandy’s smooth richness with the crisp bite of green crème de menthe. This two-ingredient classic is a quick stir-and-serve drink that delivers refreshing mint flavor with a warming finish — ideal for after-dinner sipping or an easy home bartending win.
Background
The Stinger dates back to the late 19th century, often made with Cognac and white crème de menthe as a refined digestif. The Green Stinger is a playful variation, using green crème de menthe for a bolder mint punch and striking color. It’s been a lounge staple and remains a simple, stylish cocktail.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Brandy – the smooth, fruity backbone of the cocktail.
- Green Crème de Menthe – adds minty sweetness and vivid green color.
Equipment
- Mixing glass
- Bar spoon
- Whisky tumbler (lowball glass)
Cool, Crisp, and Classic
What makes the Green Stinger special is its balance: the rich warmth of brandy paired with sharp mint sweetness. It’s a drink that feels both indulgent and refreshing, making it perfect as a nightcap or an easy cocktail to share with friends.
Substitutions & Variations
- Swap Cognac for brandy for a more refined, traditional flavor.
- Use white crème de menthe instead of green for a subtler, classic look.
- Add a dash of cream for a dessert-style twist.
Helpful Tips
- Serve over fresh ice to keep the drink crisp without dilution.
- Garnish with a mint sprig if you’d like a fresh aroma.
- Works well as a batch cocktail — just scale the parts evenly and stir with a large block of ice before serving.
Green Stinger Recipe
Type of Glass
Whisky Tumbler
Ingredients
- 1 Part
- 1 Part
Directions
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add brandy and green crème de menthe.
- Stir until well chilled.
- Strain into a whisky tumbler over fresh ice.
Sip the Green Stinger when you want a cocktail that’s as crisp as it is classic.