Spice up your summer evening with this kicker of a cocktail recipe! Featured in the summer section of the 2026 Local Food Guide, the Stinger Cocktail mixes some of the best ingredients Montana has to offer!
The Stinger Cocktail
Ingredients
SIMPLE SYRUP INGREDIENTS
- 1 part honey
- 2 parts water 2-3 habaneros
COCKTAIL INGREDIENTS
- 2 oz Bozeman Spirits Distillery's Ruby River Gin
- 1 squeeze of lemon juice
- 1 oz fresh cherry juice
- Dash of lavender bitters
- 1⁄2 oz habanero honey simple syrup
- Ice
Optional Garnishes
- Habanero pepper slices, lemon peel, or cherries
Instructions
- Prepare simple syrup: In a small saucepan, combine water and honey and bring to boil. Stir until honey is dissolved, 2-3 minutes. Add habaneros, reduce heat, and simmer until syrup is thickened, about 10-15 minutes. Remove saucepan from heat and let cool, about 1 hour. Remove peppers from syrup and store in a jar in the refrigerator for up to a month.
- Prepare cocktail: Fill a rocks or tall cocktail glass with ice. Pour in 2 oz of Ruby River Gin by Bozeman Spirits Distillery. Add the remaining ingredients and stir. Garnish with habanero peppers, a cherry, or a lemon peel twist.
This recipe was created by Bozeman Spirits Distillery. Inspired by Bozeman’s rugged charm and outdoor ethos, the spirits created by Bozeman Spirits Distillery capture the essence of Montana’s untamed beauty and adventurous lifestyle. For over 10 years, they’ve proudly embraced local roots, growing and harvesting barley from their farm and sourcing grains from Montana Milling, located in Conrad. Each bottle reflects their commitment to quality, rooted in hard work, passion, and Montana’s natural beauty. Visit bozemanspirits.com to learn more and schedule a tour.
