master-cooks | The Stinger: The Glitzy Cocktail That Was Practically Forgotten After Prohibition

The Stinger is a cocktail that once enjoyed immense popularity, particularly among the elite during the early 20th century. This sophisticated drink, traditionally made with a mix of brandy and crème de menthe, was beloved for its smooth, refreshing taste and its ability to serve as both an after-dinner delight and a soothing nightcap. The Stinger's allure lay in its simplicity and the way the minty crème de menthe complemented the rich, warm notes of brandy, creating a balanced and invigorating mix. During the Prohibition era in the United States, many cocktails, including the Stinger, fell out of favor as the country grappled with the restrictions on alcohol. As speakeasies became the norm, bartenders often focused on more potent concoctions to mask the harsh flavors of bootleg spirits. After Prohibition ended, the cocktail scene evolved, and the Stinger, once a symbol of glamour and sophistication, was overshadowed by newer, trendier drinks. Despite this, the Stinger remains a nostalgic nod to a bygone era, and it occasionally resurfaces in modern bars, offering a taste of vintage elegance to those who seek to rediscover its charm.

The history of the Stinger

While many attribute the rise of the Stinger cocktail to Reginald Vanderbilt, few can definitively identify its original creator. The drink is believed to have originated in the 1890s, with its first documented mention appearing in Jacques Straub's 1914 book, "Drinks." Although Straub did not invent the cocktail, he was the first to record its recipe.

Vanderbilt is also credited with naming the Stinger. Earlier versions of the drink had different names; the original was called the Bartholdi Cocktail, named after the New York hotel where it was created. A subsequent variation that included Angostura bitters was known as the Brant Cocktail, while another version that featured orange bitters and rye was referred to as the Prince.

When Vanderbilt began serving the drink, he dubbed it the Stinger, and the name has endured ever since. The cocktail remained popular even after Prohibition, making appearances in films with notable actors like Cary Grant in "Kiss Them for Me." Unfortunately, its decline in popularity can be attributed to the rising cost of the liquor required to make it. While some still appreciate the Stinger, it has never regained the prominence it once enjoyed.

The Stinger: The Glitzy Cocktail That Was Practically Forgotten After Prohibition

The history of the Stinger

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