I think that honest communication is the best way to handle it. If you regret what you said then tell him so. If you feel that he has worked hard to change his life and is strong in his recovery, then tell him that you recognize this, and because of that you know how inappropriate your comments were. I would also be honest and tell him that his words hurt you; that you were not used to that type of speak from him, and reacted from a place of wanting to hurt him back. And again, I would be honest, and tell him that you don’t want the silent treatment, the distance between you; instead you want to talk and resolve any conflicts. It sounds like you have a good relationship overall, so Im sure you can get through this just fine.