The Bee’s Knees, a cocktail hailing from the Prohibition era, is made with gin, lemon juice, and honey. Its name reflects the slang of its time, where “bee’s knees” was used to signify something excellent or exceptional.
Credit for this drink goes to Frank Meier, an Austrian-born bartender who honed his craft at the Hôtel Ritz Paris during the 1920s. A variation of the classic Gin Sour, which typically includes gin, lemon, and sugar, the Bee’s Knees swaps out sugar for honey.
This substitution lends a depth to the drink, potentially serving to mask the taste of lower-quality gin prevalent during Prohibition.
Bees Knees Cocktail Ingredients
Before you start shaking things up, gather the following high-quality ingredients to ensure your Bees Knees cocktail is nothing short of extraordinary:
- Gin (60ml): Choose a quality gin with botanical notes to form the backbone of your cocktail.
- Fresh Lemon Juice (30ml): Squeeze the zesty brightness of fresh lemons to balance the sweetness of the honey.
- Honey Syrup (30ml): Create a rich and smooth honey syrup by combining equal parts honey and hot water, stirring until fully dissolved.
- Ice Cubes: Essential for chilling and diluting the cocktail to perfection.
- Lemon Twist (for garnish): Elevate the visual appeal and add a citrusy aroma to your Bees Knees cocktail.
Bees Knees Cocktail Recipe:
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating the perfect Bees Knees cocktail:
Step 1: Prepare the Honey Syrup
Begin by crafting the honey syrup. Combine equal parts honey and hot water in a small bowl or container. Stir the mixture until the honey completely dissolves, creating a smooth and consistent syrup. Let it cool to room temperature before using.
Step 2: Gather Your Ingredients
Ensure all your ingredients are ready and within reach. Having everything prepared beforehand streamlines the mixing process.
Step 3: Measure and Pour the Gin
In a cocktail shaker, measure out 60ml of your chosen gin. Pour it into the shaker, laying the foundation for the cocktail’s distinctive flavor profile.
Step 4: Squeeze Fresh Lemon Juice
Measure and add 30ml of fresh lemon juice to the gin in the shaker. The acidity from the lemon juice is crucial for balancing the sweetness of the honey, creating a harmonious taste.
Step 5: Add Honey Syrup
Pour 30ml of the previously prepared honey syrup into the shaker. This addition adds a luscious sweetness to the cocktail, giving it a unique depth of flavor.
Step 6: Shake Well with Ice
Fill the shaker with ice cubes, ensuring it’s about halfway full. Secure the lid tightly and shake the mixture vigorously for approximately 15-20 seconds. The goal is to thoroughly chill the ingredients and achieve a well-mixed cocktail.
Step 7: Strain Into Glass
Using a cocktail strainer, pour the shaken mixture into a chilled glass. Straining ensures a smooth cocktail, free from ice shards or pulp.
Step 8: Garnish with Lemon Twist
Take a lemon twist and express its citrus oils over the surface of the cocktail by giving it a gentle twist. Drop the twist into the drink or place it on the rim for an elegant touch.
Step 9: Sip and Enjoy
Your Bees Knees cocktail is now ready to be savored. Take a moment to appreciate the balance of flavors— the botanicals from the gin, the tartness from the lemon, and the sweetness from the honey. Cheers to your mixology prowess!
The Bees Knees Cocktail – Enjoy The Sweetness
Today’s gin market boasts a wide array of top-notch options, making it easy to elevate the Bee’s Knees cocktail to its finest form. Whether you prefer a classic London Dry gin with robust juniper flavors or a modern gin bursting with citrus and floral notes, the choice is yours to tailor the drink to your taste preferences.
For the honey component, opt for a gentle variety like clover or another mild floral honey to ensure its subtle sweetness harmonizes with the other ingredients. A homemade honey syrup, made by blending honey and water, adds depth and complexity to the cocktail.
Balanced by the zesty acidity of fresh lemon juice, the Bee’s Knees is a simple yet refreshing drink suitable for any occasion. With just three ingredients, it’s a convenient option for entertaining guests, allowing you to effortlessly mix up a batch to satisfy everyone’s thirst. Simply keep a bottle of gin, a batch of honey syrup, and plenty of lemons on hand, and you’re ready to shake up this delightful cocktail whenever the mood strikes.
