The stinger cocktail was popular among the upper classes after the turn of the 20th Century. Reginald Vanderbilt appears to have been a notorious lover of the stinger. You don't see this one on cocktail menus, and initially the brandy/mint combination seems off-putting. But then think about the mint julep.

The recipes call for white creme de menthe, but you can use green in its place.

• 2 1/4 ounces brandy
• 3/4 ounce white creme de menthe

Place the brandy and creme de menthe in a mixing glass with ice and stir until well chilled. Strain into a coupe and serve ungarnished. You can also serve this on the rocks, if you prefer.

Photos by Lisa Denkinger

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