Why Cognac Cocktails Are Trending: Make Mine a Stinger

Cognac cocktails, including the iconic Stinger, are experiencing a surge in popularity as bartenders and enthusiasts embrace their rich, smooth flavors. This revival highlights the versatility of cognac in mixed drinks, offering a balance of luxury and approachability. The trend is fueled by a growing appreciation for classic cocktails, sophisticated drink experiences, and the resurgence of timeless spirits in modern bars.

The Spicy Margarita has gained significant popularity, now making up half of drink sales in many bars. But what would the top mixologists be ordering instead? My survey revealed that brandy was the clear favorite, with cognac, Armagnac, and calvados receiving numerous votes. 

Jake Burger from Portobello Star in London praised cognac, calling it the "king of spirits," and recommended a 19th-century Cognac Cocktail, a brandy-based version of an Old Fashioned. He suggests using pre-phylloxera Sazerac de Forge & Fils cognac for an authentic experience. 

Armagnac was highly favored by experts like Jared Brown and Sebastian Tollius, who appreciate its rustic, versatile character. Calvados, with its apple flavor range, also earned strong recommendations from industry professionals. Talia Baiocchi of Punch magazine especially enjoys a simple calvados and tonic.

Classic cocktails like the Stinger, made with cognac or Armagnac and crème de menthe, and the creamy Grasshopper, which can be enhanced with cognac, were also highlighted. The revival of liqueurs such as crème de menthe and Bénédictine DOM was noted, with many mixologists experimenting with these flavors in after-dinner drinks. With these trends, the Margarita might soon give way to more refined, smoky choices in 2025.

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Source: ft.com‍