Stinger (cocktail)

A classic cocktail made with brandy and crème de menthe

A classic Stinger cocktail served in a rocks glass

The Stinger is a classic cocktail that combines brandy and crème de menthe, resulting in a smooth and minty drink. It is traditionally served in a rocks glass over ice, but it can also be served straight up in a cocktail glass.

History

The Stinger cocktail has a long history, dating back to the early 20th century. It became popular in the United States during the Prohibition era, when cocktails were often used to mask the taste of inferior spirits. The combination of brandy and crème de menthe was particularly appealing for its smooth and refreshing flavor.

Ingredients

The classic Stinger recipe calls for two main ingredients:

• 1 1/2 ounces of brandy
• 1/2 ounce of crème de menthe (white)

Preparation

The Stinger is a simple cocktail to prepare. It can be made by following these steps:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the brandy and crème de menthe to the shaker.
3. Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
4. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice, or serve straight up in a cocktail glass.

Variations

There are several variations of the Stinger cocktail, including:

• Green Stinger: Uses green crème de menthe instead of white, giving the drink a vibrant green color.
• Vodka Stinger: Substitutes vodka for brandy, resulting in a lighter flavor.
• Stinger Royale: Adds a splash of champagne to the classic recipe for a sparkling twist.

Cultural References

The Stinger has appeared in various forms of media, often associated with sophistication and elegance. It is sometimes depicted as a drink of choice for characters in film noir and classic Hollywood films.

Related pages

• Brandy
• Crème de menthe
• Cocktail
• Prohibition in the United States