The Bee’s Knees is a classic cocktail that originated during the Prohibition era in the United States. It is a simple yet delicious drink that has stood the test of time.
The Bee’s Knees cocktail typically contains three main ingredients: gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup.
Bee’s Knee Recipe
Course: BeverageCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy1
servings2
minutes1
minuteThis is a great cocktail for anyone. Combines great flavors into a crushable drink.
Ingredients
2 oz 2 Gin
.75 oz .75 Fresh Lemon Juice
.75 oz .75 Honey Syrup
Directions
- Combine all ingredients into a cocktail shaker.
- Add ice.
- Shake for 12 - 15 seconds.
- Double strain into a Nick & Nora glass or a coupe.
Recipe Video
Notes
- We like to use a 3:1 honey syrup. 3 Parts honey to 1 part water.
What is the History of the Bee’s Knees?
The history of the Bee’s Knees cocktail is closely tied to the Prohibition era in the United States. Prohibition lasted from 1920 to 1933 when the production, sale, and distribution of alcoholic beverages were banned.
During Prohibition, the quality of bootlegged spirits was often poor, and people would use mixers and other ingredients to mask the harsh taste of illicit alcohol. This led to the popularity of cocktails during that time, as they provided a way to make the alcohol more palatable.
The Bee’s Knees cocktail emerged as one of the many creative concoctions of that era. Its name is believed to have originated from the famous slang phrase “the bee’s knees,” which was used to describe something excellent or of high quality during the 1920s.
The cocktail is a simple blend of gin, lemon juice, and honey. Lemon juice and honey are served to balance the intense flavors of the gin and mask any undesirable taste. The honey also added a touch of sweetness to the drink.
The Bee’s Knees cocktail became popular among the speakeasies and social gatherings of the time. It was seen as a refreshing and delicious drink that could be enjoyed despite the era’s limitations. The cocktail’s popularity extended beyond the Prohibition era and has remained a classic cocktail in the following decades.
Recently, there has been a resurgence of interest in classic cocktails, including the Bee’s Knees. Craft cocktail bars and mixologists have reintroduced this cocktail to modern audiences, appreciating its simplicity and balanced flavors.
The Bee’s Knees cocktail has stood the test of time and continues to be enjoyed as a classic cocktail choice, representing a taste of the Roaring Twenties and the Prohibition era.
What is the Best Gin for a Bee’s Knees Cocktail?
The choice of gin for a Bee’s Knees cocktail can vary depending on personal preference and availability. Different gins have distinct flavor profiles, ranging from floral and citrusy to more herbal and juniper-forward. Here are a few types of gin that work well in a Bee’s Knees cocktail:
London Dry Gin
London Dry Gin is a classic Bee’s Knees cocktail choice. It is known for its strong juniper flavor and citrus undertones. Popular brands such as Tanqueray, Beefeater, and Bombay Sapphire are examples of London Dry Gins that work well in this cocktail.New American or American-style Gin
New American Gins have recently gained popularity. They often showcase a more prominent citrus or floral character, which can complement the lemon juice in the Bee’s Knees cocktail. Examples include Hendrick’s Gin, Aviation American Gin, and Brooklyn Gin.Botanical or Flavored Gins
If you want to experiment with different flavor profiles, you can try botanical or flavored gins. These gins incorporate additional botanicals or infusions, such as lavender, rosemary, or various fruits. They can add unique and exciting dimensions to the cocktail. Examples include The Botanist Islay Dry Gin or Monkey 47 Schwarzwald Dry Gin.
Ultimately, the “best” gin for a Bee’s Knees cocktail is subjective and depends on individual taste preferences. Some people prefer a more traditional gin flavor, while others enjoy a gin with a more pronounced citrus or floral character. It can be fun to try different gins and discover which suits your palate and enhances your enjoyment of the cocktail.
What is the best Honey for a Bee’s Knees Recipe?
When choosing honey for a Bee’s Knees cocktail, it’s ideal to select a honey that complements the flavors of the drink. Here are a few types of honey that work well in this cocktail:
Clover Honey
Clover honey is famous for its mild, floral flavor and widely available nature. It has a nice sweetness and pairs nicely with the gin and lemon juice without overpowering the other ingredients.Orange Blossom Honey
Orange blossom honey is known for its citrusy and aromatic notes. It adds a delightful hint of citrus flavor to the cocktail, enhancing the lemony aspect of the Bee’s Knees. Enjoying a more pronounced citrus character can be a great option.Wildflower Honey
Wildflower honey is derived from various nectar sources, resulting in a complex and nuanced flavor profile. It can bring depth and richness to the cocktail, adding a touch of earthiness and floral notes.Orange Blossom Honey
Orange blossom honey is known for its citrusy and aromatic notes. It adds a delightful hint of citrus flavor to the cocktail, enhancing the lemony aspect of the Bee’s Knees. Enjoying a more pronounced citrus character can be a great option.Lavender Honey
If you want to experiment with unique flavors, lavender honey can be an intriguing choice. It infuses a subtle floral and herbal essence to the cocktail, imparting a distinct twist on the traditional Bee’s Knees.
It’s worth noting that different honey brands and sources may have variations in flavor, so it can be enjoyable to explore different options and find one that suits your taste preferences. Consider choosing high-quality raw honey for a more authentic and flavorful experience when possible.
Ultimately, the “best” honey for a Bee’s Knees cocktail depends on your preference and desired flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with different types of honey to discover your favorite combination.
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