Stinger

The Stinger is a timeless two-ingredient classic that marries the warmth of Cognac with the cool freshness of white crème de menthe. Silky, aromatic, and surprisingly approachable, it is traditionally served as an after-dinner drink, offering both comfort and a refreshing, minty lift.

Despite its simplicity, the Stinger feels undeniably sophisticated. Served straight up in a chilled cocktail glass, it is rich yet smooth, with the Cognac providing depth and structure while the mint liqueur adds sweetness and a cooling finish. It is an excellent introduction to spirit-forward cocktails for those who enjoy mint but are looking for something more elegant than a dessert-style drink.

Recognized by the International Bartenders Association (IBA) in the “New Era Drinks” category, the Stinger has earned its place as a modern classic. It is perfect as a digestif, a late-night sipper, or a refined alternative to heavier creamy mint cocktails.

Instructions

Official Recipe:

1. Chill a cocktail glass in the freezer or by filling it with ice and water while you prepare the drink.
2. Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes, using fresh, solid ice to minimize dilution.
3. Pour 50 ml Cognac into the mixing glass.
4. Add 20 ml white crème de menthe.
5. Stir gently but thoroughly for 20–30 seconds, until the mixture is very cold and slightly diluted.
6. Discard the ice and water from the chilled cocktail glass if you used it to chill the glass.
7. Strain the cocktail into the chilled cocktail glass, using a julep or Hawthorne strainer for a clear pour.
8. Garnish with an optional fresh mint leaf placed delicately on the surface of the drink.

Note: The Stinger is traditionally served without ice, but if you prefer a slightly slower, more relaxed sip, you can serve it over a large ice cube in a Rocks Glass.

Tips

• Use quality Cognac: The Cognac is the backbone of the Stinger, so choose a good VS or VSOP with a smooth, fruity character. Avoid very old Cognacs whose subtleties may be overwhelmed by the mint.
• Choose white crème de menthe: The official recipe calls for white (clear) crème de menthe, which preserves the elegant appearance and avoids coloring the drink green.
• Control sweetness: If you prefer a drier profile, reduce the crème de menthe slightly (to 15 ml) or increase the Cognac proportionally to emphasize the spirit.
• Stir, don’t shake: Stirring keeps the texture silky and the drink crystal clear. Shaking would over-dilute and slightly cloud the cocktail.
• Proper chilling: The Stinger should be very cold. Use plenty of ice in the mixing glass and chill the serving glass beforehand for the best texture and aroma.
• Mint garnish freshness: If you use a mint leaf, slap it gently between your hands before garnishing to release its aroma without shredding it.
• Serve as a digestif: Present the Stinger after dinner in small portions; its rich spirit base and mint notes make it ideal as a refined digestif.

Classic Variations

• Vodka Stinger: Replaces Cognac with vodka for a lighter, more neutral base that lets the mint flavor stand out more clearly.
• Stinger on the Rocks: Served in a Rocks Glass over ice, slightly more casual and forgiving, perfect for slower sipping.
• Green Stinger: Uses green crème de menthe instead of white, resulting in a vividly colored, more retro-styled version.
• Brandy Stinger: A broader take using non-Cognac brandy, often slightly fruitier and more approachable.
• Frozen Stinger: Blended with crushed ice to create a slushy, dessert-like version, especially refreshing in warm weather.

Flavor Profile

On the initial taste, you will notice a cool wave of mint sweetness, rounded by the gentle warmth of Cognac. The entry is smooth and slightly honeyed, with no harsh edges if well-balanced.

On the mid-palate, the Cognac asserts itself: notes of dried fruit, vanilla, oak, and subtle spice weave through the mint, creating a layered, aromatic profile rather than a simple mint blast.

On the finish, the mint lingers with a clean, refreshing coolness, while a soft Cognac warmth remains at the back of the throat. The aftertaste is long, slightly sweet, and pleasantly soothing, making it ideal after a rich meal.

History

The Stinger is a classic American cocktail with roots that stretch back to the late 19th century. It is generally believed to have emerged around the 1890s, at a time when Cognac- and brandy-based cocktails were highly fashionable among the upper classes. The combination of brandy and mint liqueur offered both luxury and refreshment in a single glass.

The drink became especially associated with high society in the early 20th century. It was a favorite among New York socialites and appeared in literature and on the menus of prestigious hotels and private clubs. Traditionally enjoyed as a “duo” (two-ingredient, spirit-forward cocktail), the Stinger was often served as a nightcap or after-dinner drink.

Today, the Stinger is recognized by the International Bartenders Association (IBA) as an official cocktail in the “New Era Drinks” category. While it may not be as ubiquitous as some other classics, it remains a symbol of understated elegance and is a wonderful way to explore Cognac and mint in a minimalist, refined format.

Cheers!