A Prohibition-era classic that combines Gin with honey and lemon—sweet but not sticky, tart but not sharp. The honey must be liquid; otherwise, the drink turns cloudy and the flavor lingers in the shaker. Perfect for warm evenings when you want something light yet profound. No frills, just three ingredients that elevate each other.
Here’s what you need for the Bee’s Knees
5 cl London Dry Gin
2 cl freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 cl liquid honey (about 2 barspoons, but to taste)
The key to success
The honey is the unsung hero. Do not use thick, creamy honey—it will cling to the shaker and cloud the drink. Better: liquid floral honey that blends seamlessly with the Gin. If the honey is too thick, warm it briefly in a bain-marie (do not boil!). And: the lemon juice must be fresh. Pre-packaged juice loses its acidity after 30 minutes and flattens the drink. A bartender’s trick: shake the Gin and juice first, then add the honey—it distributes more evenly.
Variations
- Bee’s Knees with grapefruit — Replace the lemon juice with 1.5 cl grapefruit juice and 0.5 cl lemon juice. Adds a bitter note that balances the honey.
- Herbal Bee’s Knees — Add 2 fresh thyme sprigs. Lightly muddle in the shaker before shaking to release the essential oils. Pairs well with a spicy Gin.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use simple syrup instead of honey?
Yes, but the flavor changes. Honey gives the drink a floral depth that simple syrup lacks. If using syrup, reduce the amount to 1.5 cl—honey is sweeter than sugar.
Why is my Bee’s Knees cloudy?
Either the honey wasn’t liquid enough or you didn’t shake it enough. If the honey is too thick, warm it briefly in a bain-marie before adding it to the shaker.
Which glass should I use?
A chilled Coupe is ideal—it keeps the drink cold longer and showcases the color beautifully. A Nick & Nora glass works too, but avoid a Tumbler: the drink is too light for a heavy glass.
