Bee's Knees

Try this simple cocktail recipe and you'll no longer question the name of the refreshing beverage. That's because it really is the bee's knees! Bright, balanced, and made with just three ingredients, it's a very easy spring cocktail to shake together for a dinner party or happy hour any night of the week. Gin, honey, and lemon juice are kitchen staples that you most likely have on hand. When shaken in a cocktail shaker with ice, these humble ingredients yield a drink that is herbaceous and fresh, balanced by perfect citrus sweetness!

Why is it called the Bee's Knees?

Bee's knees is an expression meaning that something is excellent or very well liked. Try this cocktail and perhaps you will feel the same way!

When was the bees knees popular?

The Bee's Knees is known as a "classic cocktail" developed during the Prohibition Era. Honey and lemon juice helped to sweeten and mask the taste of poorly made alcohol.

What's the difference between honey syrup and simple syrup?

Simple syrup is made with a one to one ratio of sugar to water; honey syrup is made using honey and water with the same ratio. Simple syrup is simply sweet, while honey syrup tastes like, well, honey! But turning the honey into a syrup thins it out into a more pourable consistency so that it's easier to mix into cocktails. You can use extra for other beverages, such as lemonade or sweet tea. It'll keep in the fridge for up to two weeks. 

What is gin?

Gin is a distilled spirit that is considered "neutral" due to its usually clear color. The flavor, however, is anything but! Gin is distilled with botanical elements—with juniper berries being required in order to call it gin. Other aromatics such as orange or lemon peel, coriander, almond, cinnamon, and other flowers and herbs make an appearance in different gin varieties. 

What does gin taste like?

Depending on the amount of juniper berries used, gin often has an herbal or piney flavor that comes through first. It can also have notes of citrus, which lend nicely to this cocktail made with lemon juice.

What can I use in place of gin? 

Vodka or even bourbon would taste lovely with the combination of lemon juice and honey. Try it with Meyer lemons when they are in season during winter. 

What do you use to garnish a Bee's Knees cocktail?

A lemon twist is an easy addition that makes this cocktail look like it came from a fancy bar. For an extra special touch, garnish with edible flowers—we used nasturtium, pansies, and violas. When garnished, this simple cocktail becomes the star of any party!