The Stinger Cocktail is a smooth operator—just Cognac and white crème de menthe, nothing more. Once the go-to nightcap of old Hollywood elites, it's classy without being flashy. In Los Angeles, where minimalist luxury is the new status symbol, the Stinger is a drink that feels right at home at high-end dinners, rooftop lounges, and curated speakeasies.
Ingredients (One Serving)
- 1¾ oz Cognac or Brandy
- ¾ oz White Crème de Menthe
- Ice (for stirring)
- Rocks glass or coupe (depending on vibe)
- Optional garnish: Mint leaf or lemon twist
LA Local Tip: White crème de menthe can be found at K&L Wine Merchants or Barkeeper in Silver Lake. Want an LA riff? Ask Party Shakers to sub in mint-infused vodka or house-made herbal liqueurs for a more modern, local twist.
How to Make the Stinger with Style
1. Choose your glass.
Serve it neat in a coupe for elegance, or over a large rock in a lowball for a nightcap feel.
- Stir, don't shake.
Add Cognac and crème de menthe to a mixing glass with ice. Stir for about 20 seconds to chill and dilute just enough. This is ideal for The Stinger Cocktail. - Strain into your glass.
Double strain if serving neat—this drink should be pristine and clear. - Garnish if desired.
Not traditional, but a mint leaf or thin lemon twist adds visual sophistication and aroma.
Why the Stinger Cocktail Has Quietly Returned in LA's Cocktail World
In a city where everything's curated and intentional, the Stinger Cocktail is a hidden gem. No juice. No bitters. Just two ingredients that hit harder than you'd expect. Ideal for:
- Intimate after-dinner lounges in West LA
- Cigar nights in Beverly Hills
- Private film screenings in Los Feliz
- Jazz piano bars in Pasadena
It's especially popular among guests looking for something spirit-forward but smoother than whiskey neat.
FAQs on The Stinger Cocktail
Is the Stinger sweet?
A little—but it's mostly balanced by the strength of the Cognac. The crème de menthe is subtle, giving just enough cool mint without tasting like a candy cane.
Can I use brandy instead of Cognac?
Yes. In fact, many bartenders do. Cognac brings refinement; brandy adds a warmer edge.
Is it okay for events?
Absolutely, especially as a post-dinner cocktail. Party Shakers offers it with optional variations like aged rum or dark chocolate-mint finishes for dessert pairings.
Serve Cool Confidence – Book the Stinger in LA
Elegant, nostalgic, and quietly commanding—the Stinger adds old-world class to any event. It's perfect for guests who know their spirits and want something off the beaten path. Other drinks are also worth checking out.
✅ Available for events across Los Angeles County: Beverly Grove, Marina del Rey, Sherman Oaks, and beyond
✅ Great as a digestif or paired with late-night dessert stations
✅ Optional modern riffs: cacao bitters, smoked mint, or custom glassware
✅ Served by Party Shakers' mixologists who know how to make "simple" unforgettable
Book Party Shakers – Serve the Stinger and Let Minimalism Make Its Statement in LA