Midnight Stinger cocktail recipe

Countless quotes, movie lines and songs refer to the middle of the night, inciting curiosity and mystery. The Rolling Stones were all about the ‘Midnight Rambler’, Wilson Pickett got excited about the midnight hour, ABBA kept asking for a man after midnight, Cinderella knew a thing or two about the clock striking 12, and, of course, you should never feed a gremlin after midnight (unless your crazy mate really needs those drive-through nuggies). Shrouded in intrigue, midnight is often seen as a time for romance and transformation, where devious plans are hatched and ingenious ideas are voiced.

Speaking of brilliant ideas, this zippy Midnight Stinger was adapted from the original Stinger cocktail and Whiskey Sour influences by our very own expat, the former bartender at NYC’s Milk & Honey and now co-owner of Attaboy, Sam Ross. A favourite cocktail of the high-society set  who regularly had a brandy digestif after supper, the original Stinger was enjoyed by James Bond in the novel Diamonds Are Forever and appeared in the 1956 movie High Society starring Frank Sinatra. Sam Ross’ remix of the classic trades bourbon for Cognac and Fernet Branca for the mint liqueur, while dialling up the sour aspect by adding lemon juice to tart up the old Stinger. Think all the class of Bond and Frankie blue eyes, with just a little more modern sass.

When patrons ask bartender Sam Ross for anything whiskey-based, bitter and with a citrus kick, this Fernet-laced classic is his go-to, and we think it just might be yours after you try it.

Made with bourbon, Fernet Branca, lemon juice and sugar syrup, our Midnight Stinger recipe hits all the right notes, but, as always, don’t be afraid to put your own stamp on it. When it comes to the base spirit, for example, if you prefer a more sophisticated smoky flavour, swap the bourbon for a peated whisky instead. If you adore deep caramel notes in your drinks, dial up the sweetness with a bourbon that boasts stronger vanilla, oak, and honey flavours.

If Fernet’s thick, bitter flavour is a wee bit too potent for you, add it sparingly and taste-test as you go to find the perfect balance. Love a zippy citrus hit? Add more fresh lemon juice and garnish with a lemon wedge instead of the mint. Love to dabble in the sweet delights in life? Splash a little more sugar syrup in (go on, you deserve it!).

Originally a digestivo or digestif, the Midnight Stinger is an ideal drink after a hefty dinner, known for its refreshing flavours and stomach-settling charms. But you don’t have to play by the rules – the Midnight Stinger is a welcome guest any hour you choose.

If you want to explore more bright bourbon-based cocktails, be sure to check out the Bourbon Peach Tea and the Mint Julep.