How to Make a Bees Knees Cocktail
Creating a Bee’s Knees cocktail is a journey back to the Prohibition era, where this delightful drink first made its mark. It’s a simple yet elegant mix of gin, honey, and lemon juice. This cocktail is renowned for its balance of sweet and tart flavors, making it a timeless favorite. The Bee’s Knees was famously served at the Ritz Hotel in Paris, crafted by the legendary bartender Frank Meier.
In your own kitchen bar, perfecting this cocktail is about mastering the blend of its ingredients. You’ll need 2 ounces of gin, 0.75 ounces of fresh lemon juice, and 0.75 ounces of honey syrup. The key is to ensure your honey syrup is smooth, which you can achieve by mixing equal parts honey and warm water. If you’ve ever struggled with honey clumping in warm cocktails, this simple syrup trick will change your game.
My first attempt at making a Bee’s Knees ended when I squeezed a little too much lemon. The drink turned out overly sour. To fix that, I balanced it with a touch more honey syrup until I found the right harmony. Experimenting with different gins also brings unique twists to this classic drink. Give it a try, and soon you’ll have your own perfect version of the Bee’s Knees to share at your next gathering.
Crafting Your Bee’s Knees Cocktail
Creating the perfect Bee’s Knees cocktail involves selecting high-quality ingredients, using efficient mixing techniques, and mastering the art of garnishing to achieve a beautifully balanced drink.
Selecting Your Ingredients
Start with choosing a good dry gin, as it forms the backbone of this classic Prohibition-era cocktail. Options like Tanqueray, Hendrick’s, Beefeater, or Bombay Sapphire offer the perfect blend of juniper and botanicals for a well-rounded drink.
Next, freshly squeeze your lemons. Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides a bright, citrusy flavor that bottled juice simply can’t replicate. For sweetness, opt for honey syrup, which you can easily make at home by mixing equal parts of honey and warm water. Lavender honey can add an elegant twist and a subtle floral note.
Once you’ve got your ingredients, the next step is all about the technique.
Mixing Techniques
Start by chilling your cocktail glass. A chilled coupe or cocktail glass enhances the drinking experience, keeping your drink colder for longer.
In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine:
- 2 ounces of gin
- 3/4 ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3/4 ounce of honey syrup
Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds until the mixture is cold and frothy. This not only chills the drink but also balances the citrus and sweetness while incorporating a bit of air.
Once, I forgot to chill my glass and the cocktail warmed up too quickly, losing its refreshing edge. So always remember to chill your glass beforehand! Strain the mixture into your chilled cocktail glass, ensuring you catch any ice shards.
The Art of Garnishing
To finish, garnish your Bee’s Knees with a lemon twist or peel. Hold a fresh lemon over the drink and twist a strip of peel to release its oils. Drop the twist into the glass for a burst of citrus aroma.
For an extra touch, add an edible flower or a sprig of rosemary to give your drink a visually stunning look that’s sure to impress.
I once used a dried lemon garnish, which didn’t look or taste quite right. Fresh is always best, adding both flavor and flair to your cocktail.
Exploring Recipe Twists
Experimenting with the Bee’s Knees can yield delightful variations. Swap the gin with vodka for a smoother finish. Adding a splash of lavender syrup transforms it into a fragrant masterpiece.
One twist I love is using grapefruit juice instead of lemon for a tangy kick, or even incorporating elderflower liqueur for a floral note.
For those who enjoy bubbly beverages, topping it with club soda or champagne can add an effervescent touch. This riff resembles a French 75, merging elegance with easy preparation.
Once, I mistakenly added extra honey syrup, turning it overly sweet. If that happens, balance the flavors by adjusting the lemon juice.
