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Gin

Bee’s Knees

3 min
Easy
1 serving
classicsourgin

The Bee’s Knees balances lemon acidity with the floral bite of London dry gin, softened by honey’s sweetness. Using a 2‑ounce gin base, a three‑quarter ounce of fresh lemon juice, and an equal measure of honey syrup, the drink achieves a harmonious ratio that highlights each component. Shake with ice, strain into a chilled coupe and finish with a lemon twist for aromatic oils. It’s a straightforward mix that needs precise measurements and a shaker.

Bee’s Knees cocktail served in a coupe glass with lemon twist

Ingredients

  • Gin (London Dry) 2 oz
  • Juice (Lemon) 0.75 oz
  • Syrup (Honey) 0.75 oz
Glass:
Coupe
Garnish:
Lemon Twist

Instructions

  1. 1

    Shake with ice

  2. 2

    Strain into coupe

History

The Bee’s Knees was created during the United States Prohibition era as a cocktail to mask the harsh flavors of bathtub gin. Records indicate it first appeared in the late 1920s, popularized by speakeasy bartenders who used honey as a natural sweetener.

Tasting Notes

Bright lemon sharpness cuts through the gin’s juniper backbone, while honey adds a smooth, lingering sweetness. The mouthfeel is silky, with a balanced sweet‑sour profile and a subtle floral finish.

Serve as an aperitif on a warm evening, ideally on a patio or before dinner.

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