The Bee’s Knees is a classic Prohibition-era cocktail that has been a staple in bars and speakeasies for nearly a century. This refreshing drink is a masterclass in balance and simplicity, combining the sweetness of honey, the tartness of citrus, and the botanicals of gin. But what exactly goes into a Bee’s Knees, and how can you make one at home?
A Brief History of the Bee’s Knees
The Bee’s Knees originated in the 1920s, during the height of Prohibition in the United States. The name “Bee’s Knees” was a popular slang phrase at the time, meaning something that was excellent or top-notch. The drink itself was likely created by Frank Meier, a bartender at the Ritz Hotel in Paris, who experimented with different combinations of gin, honey, and citrus to create a unique and delicious cocktail.
The Original Recipe
The original recipe for the Bee’s Knees, as recorded by Meier himself, called for:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
These ingredients were shaken together with ice and strained into a chilled glass, garnished with a lemon wheel or twist.
The Anatomy of a Bee’s Knees
So, what makes a Bee’s Knees tick? Let’s break down the individual components of this cocktail and explore their roles in the overall flavor profile.
Gin: The Base Spirit
Gin is the foundation of the Bee’s Knees, providing a crisp, dry base for the other ingredients to build upon. When choosing a gin for your Bee’s Knees, look for a London Dry Gin with a balanced flavor profile and a moderate botanical intensity. Some popular gin options for the Bee’s Knees include:
- Bombay Sapphire
- Beefeater
- Plymouth Gin
Honey Syrup: The Sweetener
Honey syrup is a critical component of the Bee’s Knees, adding a rich, velvety texture and a touch of sweetness to the drink. To make honey syrup, simply combine equal parts honey and water in a saucepan and heat, stirring until the honey is dissolved. Let the syrup cool before using it in your Bee’s Knees.
Lemon Juice: The Acid
Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides a bright, citrusy note to the Bee’s Knees, cutting through the richness of the honey syrup and balancing out the flavors. When juicing lemons for your Bee’s Knees, be sure to use a manual or electric juicer to extract the maximum amount of juice from each lemon.
Modern Variations on the Bee’s Knees
While the original recipe for the Bee’s Knees is still widely enjoyed today, many bartenders and enthusiasts have experimented with modern variations on the classic cocktail. Some popular twists on the Bee’s Knees include:
- Using different types of honey: From clover to manuka to acacia, different types of honey can impart unique flavor profiles to the Bee’s Knees. Experiment with different honeys to find the one that works best for you.
- Adding a dash of bitters: A dash of citrus or herbal bitters can add depth and complexity to the Bee’s Knees. Try adding a dash of Angostura or orange bitters to your next Bee’s Knees.
- Using different citrus fruits: While lemon is the traditional citrus fruit used in the Bee’s Knees, other citrus fruits like lime or grapefruit can add a unique twist to the drink.
Some Popular Bee’s Knees Variations
- The Vieux Carré Bee’s Knees: This variation, created by bartender Chris Hannah, adds a dash of Benedictine and Peychaud’s Bitters to the classic recipe.
- The Smoked Honey Bee’s Knees: This variation, created by bartender Jeffrey Morgenthaler, adds a drizzle of smoked honey syrup to the classic recipe.
- The Bee’s Knees Spritz: This variation, created by bartender Toby Cecchini, adds a splash of soda water and a squeeze of lemon to the classic recipe, served over ice in a wine glass.
How to Make a Bee’s Knees at Home
Making a Bee’s Knees at home is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic bartending equipment. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a classic Bee’s Knees:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
- Ice
- Lemon wheel or twist, for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled glass.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel or twist.
Conclusion
The Bee’s Knees is a timeless cocktail that has been delighting drinkers for nearly a century. With its simple yet elegant combination of gin, honey, and citrus, this drink is a masterclass in balance and flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned bartender or a curious enthusiast, the Bee’s Knees is a cocktail that is sure to please. So why not give it a try? Grab a bottle of gin, a jar of honey, and a few lemons, and get ready to experience the magic of the Bee’s Knees for yourself.
What is the origin of the Bee’s Knees cocktail?
The Bee’s Knees cocktail originated in the United States during the Prohibition era, specifically in the 1920s. The name “Bee’s Knees” was a popular phrase at the time, used to describe something that was excellent or outstanding. The cocktail itself is believed to have been created by Frank Meier, a bartender at the Ritz Hotel in Paris, who catered to American expatriates and bootleggers.
Meier’s original recipe consisted of gin, honey, and lemon juice, which were mixed together and served in a coupe glass. The drink quickly gained popularity among the American expat community in Paris and eventually made its way back to the United States, where it became a staple of the Prohibition-era cocktail scene. Despite its origins during a time of strict alcohol laws, the Bee’s Knees has endured as a beloved classic cocktail.
What are the main ingredients of a Bee’s Knees cocktail?
The main ingredients of a Bee’s Knees cocktail are gin, honey, and lemon juice. The traditional recipe calls for a combination of these three ingredients, which are mixed together in a specific ratio to create the signature flavor and texture of the drink. The type of gin used can vary, but a London Dry Gin is typically preferred for its crisp, dry flavor.
The honey used in a Bee’s Knees cocktail is usually in the form of a honey syrup, which is made by dissolving honey in water to create a sweet, viscous liquid. The lemon juice adds a touch of acidity and brightness to the drink, balancing out the sweetness of the honey. The proportions of each ingredient can be adjusted to taste, but the classic recipe is generally considered to be 2 oz gin, 1/2 oz honey syrup, and 1/2 oz lemon juice.
How do I make a Bee’s Knees cocktail?
To make a Bee’s Knees cocktail, start by filling a cocktail shaker with ice. Add 2 oz of gin, 1/2 oz of honey syrup, and 1/2 oz of freshly squeezed lemon juice to the shaker. Close the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass and garnish with a lemon wheel or twist, if desired. The drink should be clear and pale yellow in color, with a smooth, velvety texture from the honey syrup. Serve immediately and enjoy! It’s worth noting that some recipes may call for additional ingredients, such as a dash of bitters or a splash of soda water, but the classic recipe is simplicity itself.
What type of gin is best for a Bee’s Knees cocktail?
The type of gin used in a Bee’s Knees cocktail can affect the flavor and character of the drink. A London Dry Gin is generally considered the best type of gin to use, as it has a crisp, dry flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey and the acidity of the lemon juice.
Some popular brands of London Dry Gin that work well in a Bee’s Knees cocktail include Beefeater, Bombay Sapphire, and Tanqueray. Avoid using a Plymouth Gin or an Old Tom Gin, as these styles of gin have a sweeter, more floral flavor that may clash with the other ingredients. Ultimately, the choice of gin is a matter of personal preference, so feel free to experiment with different brands and styles to find the one that works best for you.
Can I make a Bee’s Knees cocktail with a different type of sweetener?
While honey is the traditional sweetener used in a Bee’s Knees cocktail, it is possible to make the drink with a different type of sweetener. Some popular alternatives to honey include simple syrup, agave nectar, and maple syrup.
However, keep in mind that each of these sweeteners has a different flavor and texture that may affect the overall character of the drink. Simple syrup, for example, is a more neutral sweetener that won’t add much flavor to the drink, while agave nectar and maple syrup have a stronger, more distinct flavor that may alter the balance of the drink. If you do choose to use a different sweetener, start with a small amount and adjust to taste, as some sweeteners can be quite potent.
Is the Bee’s Knees cocktail a classic cocktail?
Yes, the Bee’s Knees cocktail is considered a classic cocktail. It originated during the Prohibition era in the United States and has been a staple of the cocktail scene ever since. The drink has been included in numerous cocktail books and has been recognized by the International Bartenders Association as a classic cocktail.
Despite its origins during a time of strict alcohol laws, the Bee’s Knees has endured as a beloved cocktail due to its simplicity, flavor, and versatility. It is a drink that can be enjoyed in a variety of settings, from casual gatherings to formal events, and its popularity shows no signs of waning. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of mixology, the Bee’s Knees is definitely a drink worth trying.
Can I serve a Bee’s Knees cocktail at a modern-day party or event?
Absolutely! The Bee’s Knees cocktail is a timeless classic that can be served at a variety of modern-day parties and events. Its simplicity, flavor, and versatility make it a great choice for everything from casual gatherings to formal events.
Consider serving a Bee’s Knees cocktail at a summer garden party, a wedding reception, or a holiday gathering. The drink’s light, refreshing flavor makes it perfect for warm weather, while its classic status ensures that it will be a hit with cocktail enthusiasts. You can also experiment with different variations of the drink, such as adding a splash of soda water or using a different type of gin, to create a unique and memorable cocktail experience for your guests.