The drink of High Society: the Stinger

Classically speaking, the Stinger is a mixture of cognac and Menthe-Pastille that’s shaken and served straight-up in a chilled coupe glass (although brandy and white crème de menthe can be used as alternatives).

However, more recent iterations have seen the drink poured over crushed ice in a rocks glass to bring out its refreshing peppermint undertones. Invented at the beginning of the 20th century by famous millionaire Reginald Vanderbilt, this elegant dessert cocktail was brought to prominence by the 1956 musical comedy High Society when C. K. Dexter Haven (played by Bing Crosby) explains to Tracy Lord (played by Grace Kelly) how the Stinger got its name: "It's a Stinger. It removes the sting.”. Fresh and minty, this old school digestif is the perfect palate-cleanser.

Main alcohol : Cognac

Ingredients

Ice Cubes

2 Parts Cognac

¾ Parts Menthe-Pastille

Mint Leaf or Sprig

Preparation

Measure 2 parts cognac and ¾ parts Menthe-Pastille in a mixing glass. Stir over ice until chilled. Either strain into a chilled coupe glass or pour over crushed ice in a rocks glass. Serve with a clapped mint leaf (coupe) or a sprig of mint (rocks glass).

Drinkware : Coupe Glass