Bee’s Knees Cocktail: A Sweet and Citrusy Classic
The Bee’s Knees is a delightful, Prohibition-era cocktail that perfectly balances the bright citrus of lemon with the smooth sweetness of honey, all brought together by a backbone of gin. Named after a popular slang phrase of the 1920s meaning “the best,” this cocktail certainly lives up to its name. Its simple, elegant blend of ingredients makes it both refreshing and sophisticated, ideal for any occasion where you want to enjoy a classic cocktail with a touch of sweetness.
Originally crafted as a way to mask the harsh flavors of the inferior spirits available during Prohibition, the Bee’s Knees has become a beloved staple thanks to its harmonious flavor profile and versatility. The cocktail is light, fragrant, and easy to sip, making it perfect for brunches, afternoon gatherings, or as an aperitif.
Quick Facts: Bee’s Knees
Method: Shaken
Flavor profile: Sweet, citrusy, floral
How to serve it: Straight up (without ice)
Glassware: Coupe or martini glass
Alcohol content: ~ 15-18% ABV, depending on the gin
Ingredients
The Bee’s Knees is a cocktail that relies on the quality of its ingredients to shine. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 oz Gin (A London Dry gin like Tanqueray or Bombay Sapphire works well, or try a floral gin like Hendrick’s for a different twist)
- ¾ oz Fresh lemon juice (Always freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
- ¾ oz Honey syrup (Made by mixing equal parts honey and hot water)
- Ice (For shaking)
- Lemon twist or edible flower (For garnish)
Ingredient Notes:
Using a high-quality gin is key to this cocktail, as it serves as the foundation. London Dry gins provide a classic juniper-forward flavor, while more floral gins like Hendrick’s can add a different dimension. The honey syrup adds a rich sweetness and a subtle floral note that balances the tartness of the lemon juice. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for achieving the bright, zesty flavor that makes this cocktail so refreshing.
To make honey syrup, combine equal parts honey and hot water, stirring until the honey is fully dissolved. This ensures the honey mixes smoothly into the cocktail, without clumping.
Equipment Needed
To make the Bee’s Knees, you’ll need a few basic bar tools:
- Shaker: For mixing and chilling the ingredients.
- Jigger: For measuring the gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup accurately.
- Strainer: To pour the cocktail into the glass without ice.
- Citrus press or reamer: For extracting fresh lemon juice.
- Coupe or martini glass: The wide rim allows the aromas to shine and enhances the presentation.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making a Bee’s Knees is quick and easy, but it’s important to get the balance right to ensure a perfectly smooth and refreshing cocktail. Follow these steps:
- Chill your glass: Place your coupe or martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes to chill, ensuring the cocktail stays cold longer.
- Prepare the honey syrup: If you haven’t already made your honey syrup, mix equal parts honey and hot water in a small bowl or jar, stirring until the honey is fully dissolved.
- Add the ingredients to the shaker: Measure 2 oz of gin, ¾ oz of fresh lemon juice, and ¾ oz of honey syrup. Pour all ingredients into the shaker.
- Shake with ice: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This chills the cocktail and dilutes it slightly, balancing the flavors.
- Strain into the glass: Use a strainer to pour the cocktail into your chilled coupe or martini glass. The drink should be smooth and free of ice shards.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with a lemon twist or an edible flower for a beautiful, aromatic finish. Serve immediately and enjoy the bright, balanced flavors of the Bee’s Knees.
Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes
The Bee’s Knees is a cocktail that’s all about balance. The fresh lemon juice provides a bright, tart acidity, while the honey syrup adds a smooth, floral sweetness that rounds out the sharpness of the citrus. The gin’s botanicals offer depth and complexity, with juniper, citrus, and herbal notes shining through.
The overall flavor is light, refreshing, and subtly sweet, with a lingering floral finish from the honey. Each sip is a perfect blend of tart, sweet, and botanical, making it an incredibly easy-drinking and versatile cocktail.
Garnishing and Presentation
The garnish for a Bee’s Knees is traditionally a lemon twist, which adds a burst of citrus aroma and enhances the cocktail’s presentation. To make a lemon twist, use a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to cut a thin strip of lemon peel, avoiding the bitter white pith. Twist it over the drink to release the oils, then place it on the rim or float it on top of the cocktail.
For an added touch of elegance, you can garnish with an edible flower like a pansy or chamomile, which complements the floral notes of the honey. This not only adds visual appeal but also highlights the delicate flavors of the drink.
Serve the Bee’s Knees in a chilled coupe or martini glass to showcase its beautiful, pale yellow color and to keep it perfectly cool and refreshing.
Pairing Suggestions
The Bee’s Knees is a light, bright cocktail that pairs well with a variety of foods, especially those with fresh, vibrant flavors. Here are some pairing ideas to complement the cocktail’s sweet and citrusy profile:
- Seafood: Light, fresh dishes like ceviche, shrimp cocktail, or grilled fish pair beautifully with the bright acidity and floral sweetness of the Bee’s Knees.
- Salads: A simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette, fresh herbs, and goat cheese complements the cocktail’s flavors without overwhelming them.
- Cheese boards: The cocktail’s sweetness and citrus notes work well with creamy cheeses like brie or camembert, as well as with tangy goat cheese. Add some honeycomb to the board to echo the honey in the drink.
- Light appetizers: Dishes like avocado toast, bruschetta with fresh tomatoes, or a fruit platter with berries and melon highlight the cocktail’s refreshing qualities.
Cocktail History and Trivia
The Bee’s Knees was created during the Prohibition era in the 1920s, a time when cocktails were often used to mask the harsh flavors of the bootlegged spirits available. The drink’s name comes from a popular slang expression of the time, meaning “the best” or “the cat’s whiskers,” reflecting the drink’s status as a refined and delicious option despite the challenges of the era.
It’s believed that Frank Meier, a bartender at the Ritz Hotel in Paris, popularized the Bee’s Knees, although the exact origins of the cocktail are unclear. The combination of gin, lemon, and honey became a hit, offering a sophisticated and refreshing alternative to the rough spirits of the time.
Today, the Bee’s Knees is celebrated as a classic cocktail that perfectly balances sweetness, acidity, and botanical flavors, making it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
Serving Suggestions
The Bee’s Knees is an ideal cocktail for brunch, garden parties, or any occasion where you want to serve something light and elegant. Its refreshing flavor and beautiful presentation make it perfect for spring and summer gatherings, but it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round.
For larger groups, you can easily batch the Bee’s Knees by mixing the gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup in a pitcher ahead of time. Keep the mixture chilled in the fridge, and when you’re ready to serve, shake individual portions with ice and strain into glasses. This allows you to serve multiple guests quickly while ensuring each cocktail is perfectly balanced and refreshing.
Alcohol Content and Alternatives
The Bee’s Knees has an ABV of around 15-18%, making it a moderately strong cocktail. The honey syrup and lemon juice balance the strength of the gin, making the drink smooth and easy to sip without being overly potent.
For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of gin or add a splash of soda water for a refreshing spritz. Alternatively, you can create a non-alcoholic version by using an alcohol-free gin alternative and combining it with fresh lemon juice and honey syrup for a delicious mocktail.
Bee’s Knees Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
2 oz Gin
¾ oz Fresh lemon juice
¾ oz Honey syrup
Ice
Lemon twist or edible flower for garnish
Directions
- Add gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup to a shaker filled with ice.
- Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or edible flower.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use other types of honey in this cocktail?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of honey, such as wildflower or orange blossom, to add unique floral notes to the cocktail. Just ensure the honey syrup is well-mixed so it blends smoothly into the drink.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is always recommended for the best flavor, but if necessary, you can use bottled lemon juice. Look for a brand that is 100% pure juice without added sugars or preservatives.
How do I make honey syrup?
To make honey syrup, mix equal parts honey and hot water, stirring until the honey is fully dissolved. This creates a smooth syrup that blends easily into cocktails.
Conclusion
The Bee’s Knees is a timeless cocktail that perfectly balances the bright, tart flavors of lemon with the smooth sweetness of honey. Its elegant simplicity and refreshing taste make it a versatile choice for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying it at brunch, as an aperitif, or simply relaxing on a sunny afternoon. With its harmonious blend of flavors and beautiful presentation, the Bee’s Knees is a true classic that’s always in style.
