Drink of the Day: Vodka Stinger

Don't have to say much about this one: It's a total classic, and I was so sure I would like it, I went ahead and made a double.

The Vodka Stinger, for the uninitiated, is a completely simple but delightful drink -- vodka and creme de menthe. The trick is to get the drink as cold as possible, not a tough feat for me, as I keep the vodka in the freezer and packed the shaker with ice.

The cocktail is about as refreshing as one can be. The vodka hits you like liquor should, leaving an impression but not sending you staggering. And the creme de menthe, in a ratio of 1 part for 3 parts vodka, is the right amount to awaken your senses, from the second you smell it in the glass.

I predict a few of these will be in the shaker this summer.

Rating: 4.5 glasses.