The Classic Stinger Cocktail is an easy-to-prepare drink made with just two ingredients: cognac and white crème de menthe. Despite its simplicity, this cocktail has a unique, refreshingly minty flavor, perfectly balanced by the warmth of the cognac. This drink is perfect for a quick refreshment and yet impresses with its elegant combination of flavors.
Recipe Ingredients
- 22 ml white Creme de Menthe (white, not green)
- 60 ml Cognac
Garnish
- Fresh Mint
Bar Accessories
- Mixing Glass
- Strainer
- Lowball Glass (Tumbler)
- Ice Cubes
Preparation
Preparing the Classic Stinger Cocktail is quick and easy, requiring only a few steps to achieve a perfect result:
- Add the 22 ml white crème de menthe and 60 ml of cognac in a mixing glass.
- Add a handful of ice cubes and stir the mixture for about 20 seconds to chill the drink thoroughly.
- Strain the cocktail into a lowball glass filled with ice. Use a bar strainer to prevent any ice pieces from ending up in the glass.
- Garnish the drink with fresh mint to enhance the aroma and give the cocktail an appealing visual appearance.
Tips and Variations
If you can’t find white crème de menthe, you can also use peppermint schnapps. However, keep in mind that peppermint schnapps has a much more intense flavor. If you want to replace it, we recommend using only half the amount at first and adding more to taste until you reach your desired mint intensity.
Variations of the Stinger Cocktail
The Stinger Cocktail can be adapted in several ways to create different flavor profiles. Here are some ideas for varying this recipe:
- Substitute the cognac with brandy for a slightly softer flavor.
- Add a dash of Angostura bitters to add more complexity and a hint of spice.
- Try infusing mint in cognac by steeping fresh mint leaves in the cognac for a few hours before preparing the cocktail.
Conclusion
The Classic Stinger Cocktail is the perfect drink for cognac and mint lovers. Combining the refreshing coolness of crème de menthe with the warmth of cognac, it’s ideal for any occasion where you want to enjoy a quick yet stylish cocktail. Whether as a pre-dinner aperitif or a relaxing drink after a long day, the Stinger is sure to impress your guests.
Other Recommendations
If you enjoy the Stinger cocktail, you might also enjoy other simple cognac-based cocktails, such as the French Connection or the Sidecar. These drinks also offer a wonderful balance of flavors and are easy to prepare.