Cocktails with White Crème de Menthe
White crème de menthe is a clear, intensely minty liqueur used in Stingers and grasshoppers. The white version allows use without adding green color.
No White Crème de Menthe? What to use instead
- Type
- Liqueur
- Strength
- 24–30% ABV
- Aroma
- Intense mint, Peppermint, Cool, Sweet
- Taste
- Sweet mint, Cooling, Peppermint, Syrupy
- Finish
- Cool, Sweet, Lingering mint
2 drinks with White Crème de Menthe
History
Crème de menthe emerged in the late 19th century as a digestif. The white version became popular for cocktails where color matters. Despite 'crème' in the name, it contains no cream—the term refers to its high sugar content and smooth texture.
How it’s made
Made by steeping dried peppermint and/or spearmint leaves in neutral spirit, then sweetening with sugar. White versions are filtered to remove color while preserving the mint flavor. Quality varies significantly by brand.
Bottles to try
Giffard Menthe-PastilleMid-range
French crème de menthe with authentic mint character and good balance.
Tempus Fugit Crème de MenthePremium
Craft version with natural mint, less artificial sweetness.
De Kuyper Crème de MentheBudget
Widely available Dutch version, reliable for mixing.
Got White Crème de Menthe at home?
Add it to your bar in Proof and see every drink you can make with the bottles you already have.