The Bee’s Knees Cocktail

The Bee’s Knees Cocktail: Crafting Your Own at Home

Welcome to Shake, Sip, Serve, your one-stop shop for all things bartending.

I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades.
The past 15 years, I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavor combinations, and learning a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.
Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide.

In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets. I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests.

So, grab your shaker, dust off your favorite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!
Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. 

I’m going to take you back to the Roaring Twenties, a time when the Bee’s Knees wasn’t just a phrase for something excellent, but also the name of a cocktail that has stood the test of time. This isn’t just about a mix of ingredients; it’s a sip of history, embodying the spirit and the secrecy of the Prohibition era.

You’re going to find out about this delightful concoction’s humble beginnings, its fall into obscurity, and its triumphant return to the limelight. Guess what? Today, the Bee’s Knees is often highlighted in craft cocktail menus and is revered by mixologists and connoisseurs alike for its simplicity and elegance.

In my opinion, understanding a classic cocktail’s past enhances the enjoyment of drinking it. As we explore the Bee’s Knees, you’ll discover the stories behind its name and the reasons why it’s considered a staple in the world of cocktails. Plus, I’m here to help you appreciate the nuances that have made this drink an everlasting favorite.

Unveiling the Ingredients: What Makes a Bee’s Knees Buzz?

Now, you’re probably curious about what goes into a Bee’s Knees cocktail. At its core, this classic drink is a simple trio of gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a beautifully balanced cocktail, with the tartness of the lemon juice perfectly juxtaposing the sweetness of the honey syrup, all smoothed over by the botanicals of the gin.

When selecting your gin, it’s important to choose one that resonates with you. A traditional London Dry Gin brings a juniper-forward flavor that stands up well against the zesty lemon, while a more contemporary gin with floral or citrus notes can add a modern touch to the classic.

Let’s not underestimate the power of honey in this concoction. The honey syrup is what sets the Bee’s Knees apart, both in flavor and in historical context, harking back to the Prohibition era when it masked the taste of ‘bathtub’ gins. Fast-forward to today, and quality is key; opting for a good, local honey can elevate your cocktail from good to great, providing an authentic sweetness that sugar just can’t replicate.

In my opinion, it’s this harmonious interplay of ingredients that makes the Bee’s Knees a timeless classic. As you gear up to mix your own, remember that the magic is in the balance, so measuring your ingredients accurately will pay dividends in the end. Don’t worry too much about perfection on your first attempt; with each shake and stir, you’ll find what works best for you.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Own Bee’s Knees Cocktail

Simple Bees Knees Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces gin
• 3/4 ounce fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 ounce honey syrup (store-bought or homemade)
• Ice
• Lemon twist (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Gather your ingredients and a cocktail shaker (or mason jar in a pinch).
2. Squeeze fresh lemon juice (¾ ounce) directly into the shaker.
3. Add gin (2 ounces) and honey syrup (½ ounce) to the shaker.
4. Fill the shaker with ice until it reaches the same level as the liquids.
5. Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds, aiming for a very chilled drink.
6. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
7. For a finishing touch, garnish with a lemon twist.

Tips:

• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Consider making your own honey syrup for a more customized taste.
• Feel free to adjust the sweetness or tartness to your preference by adding more honey syrup or lemon juice.

Detailed Bee’s Knees Recipe

When you’re ready to mix up a Bee’s Knees, the process itself is simple, but the devil is in the details. Here’s how to do it right.

First, you’ll need a cocktail shaker. If you don’t have one, a mason jar will work in a pinch. Make sure it’s clean and ready to go.

Next, combine 2 ounces of gin, 3/4 ounce fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 ounce honey syrup in the shaker. Freshness is key, so squeeze that lemon juice right before you’re going to use it, and consider making your own honey syrup for the best flavor.

Now, fill your shaker with ice. The ice should come up to the same level as the liquid. Seal it tightly and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds. You’re aiming for a chill that’s almost too cold to hold – that’s when you know it’s ready.

Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass. Some like to double-strain to make sure no ice chips sneak into the glass.

For a picture-perfect cocktail, garnish with a twist of lemon. It adds a pop of color and a zesty aroma that complegiants the drink wonderfully.

Remember, making a Bee’s Knees is just like baking a cake. Follow the recipe the first time, then adjust to your taste. Maybe you want more honey for a sweeter drink, or an extra shot of lemon for a bit more zing. Feel free to play around with the ratios until it’s just right for you.

If you stick to these steps, you’re going to be rewarded with a cocktail that’s not only delicious but also has a rich, historical background. Cheers to that!

Variations on a Theme: Twists on the Traditional Recipe

I’m going to let you in on a secret: the Bee’s Knees is adaptable and open to interpretation. This isn’t just about following the classic recipe; it’s also about making it your own.

If you want to shake things up, start with infused gins. A rosemary-infused gin can bring a fragrant, herbaceous quality, while a lavender infusion adds a floral touch that pairs beautifully with the honey.

And when it comes to honey, there’s a world of choice. Opt for a buckwheat honey if you prefer robust flavors or a clover honey for something light and delicate. Artisanal honeys can completely transform the drink’s character.

You might not have considered this, but the citrus isn’t set in stone. Why not try a yuzu or Meyer lemon for a change? These can introduce an intriguing twist to the traditional zest.

Don’t worry too much about experimenting. Non-alcoholic variations can be just as refreshing, using seedlip or other non-alcoholic spirits as a base to ensure everyone gets to enjoy the experience.

Regardless of your choice, remember to taste and adjust as you go. Choose something that resonates with you, and remember, your first attempt doesn’t need to be your last.

 

Pairing and Serving Suggestions: Complementing the Bee’s Knees

When you’ve nailed down making a Bee’s Knees cocktail, you’re going to want to show it off. That’s going to include thinking about what to serve it with and how to present it. Choose something that resonates with you; food pairings should complement the cocktail, heightening the experience without overpowering the delicate balance of gin, lemon, and honey.

Don’t worry too much about getting it perfect on your first try; it’s all about trial and error. A simple cheese platter with some nuts works wonders, or opt for light appetizers like bruschetta. The citrus notes of the Bee’s Knees bring out the freshness in both. If you’re feeling adventurous, spicy Asian dishes can provide a tantalizing contrast to the cocktail’s sweetness.

Now, presentation isn’t just about function—it’s also about the aesthetic. You can always adjust your approach down the road, but start with choosing the right glassware. Typically, a Bee’s Knees is served in a chilled coupe glass. This nods to its Prohibition-era roots and showcases the drink’s clarity and frothy top.

Consider the setting as well. The Bee’s Knees is versatile and perfect for a casual summer gathering or as a sophisticated choice for a more formal event. Its simplicity and elegance make it a timeless choice that adapts to any ambiance.

Moving on to the upcoming section, we are not just going to enjoy this drink responsibly, but also with a conscience. Eco-friendly practices in drink preparation and serving, like choosing organic lemons and local honey, ensure we’re doing our part for the environment. And there’s more you can do. Just wait until you see how even your cocktail choices can contribute to bee conservation!

Bee Positive Impact: Sustainable and Ethical Cocktail Enjoyment

I’m going to wrap things up with something that’s close to my heart: sustainability and ethical consumption. You see, every time you shake up a Bee’s Knees Cocktail, you’re celebrating more than just great taste; you’re also toasting to the incredible work bees do for our ecosystem. Bees are crucial pollinators, and their declining numbers are a serious concern.

When you choose local and organic ingredients for your cocktail, you’re not just enhancing the flavor; you’re contributing to a movement that supports sustainable farming practices. Opt for local artisanal honey and you’ll be giving back to the beekeepers who are the unsung heroes of the agricultural world.

And here’s a thought to savor: by spreading the word about bee conservation and making choices that support bee populations, cocktail enthusiasts can have a real impact. Think about hosting a bee-themed cocktail party or fundraiser to raise awareness and resources for bee conservation organizations.

Finally, let’s talk about eco-friendly practices in cocktail preparation. This isn’t just about what goes in your drink, it’s also about how you make it. Use reusable glass straws, minimize waste by planning your ingredient list carefully, and compost your citrus waste. Small steps can lead to significant changes, and every cocktail you make responsibly is a step in the right direction.

I really hope that you’ve enjoyed this dive into the Bee’s Knees Cocktail and that you feel inspired to try mixing one (or several) yourself. It’s a fabulous drink with a rich history and the potential for personal and ecological enrichment. Remember, every sip can contribute to a healthier planet, so let’s make those sips count!

Thanks for joining us behind the bar! 

The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve. I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below. What are you shaking up these days? What topics would you like to see covered in future posts? Let’s connect and continue the conversation!
Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/