Bee’s Knees cocktail

The Bee's Knees is a softly sweet cocktail made from gin, lemon juice and honey syrup.

The cocktail was created by Frank Meier who was working in the Ritz in Paris in the 1920s. The Bee's Knees cocktail is a brother of another famous drink — the Gin Sour. The only difference is that Bee's Knees uses honey syrup instead of sugar that's used to make a Gin Sour.

As the cocktail was created during the Prohibition era, it is believed that the honey was used to mask the bitterness of the bootleg gin. Although the honey also makes the cocktail richer and easier to drink.

In the 1920s the phrase "bee's knees" was used to describe something outstanding which might have been the reason for its name – that and the connection to honey!

  • Prep Time:
  • Total Time:
  • Type: Cocktail
  • Units: 2

Equipment

  • coupe glass

Ingredients

  • 60 ml gin
  • 25 ml lemon juice
  • 15 ml honey syrup
  • lemon twist (to garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pour all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well until chilled.
  2. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
  3. Garnish with a lemon twist. Serve and enjoy!
Out of existing 20,000 species of bees, only a small fraction of them can make honey.

FAQ

What are the best gin cocktails?

If you like a gin cocktail like the Bee’s Knees cocktail we also have a roundup of the 10 best gin cocktails, it’s not official, but we think you’ll find them interesting and worth trying out.

What is a Bee’s Knees cocktail?

A Bee’s Knees is a simple gin cocktail shaken with fresh lemon juice and honey syrup for a bright, silky balance of sweet and tart. If you like elegant, citrusy gin drinks, try the Aviation or the sparkling French 75.

Can I use any type of gin for a Bee’s Knees?

Yes. London Dry keeps it crisp, while floral or citrus led gins add perfume. For a sharper gin and citrus build without honey, see the Gimlet.

What is the origin of the Bee’s Knees name?

“Bee’s knees” was 1920s slang for something excellent, and the cocktail’s honey sweetened style made it a fitting Prohibition era favourite.

What can I serve with a Bee’s Knees?

Keep it light and fresh. It works well alongside snacks with cool, herby dips like tzatziki or hummus beiruti.

Please note that the units field is an estimation, and will vary depending on the type and quantity of alcohol used. Please drink responsibly and legally.
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