Bee’s Knees

Bee’s Knees with Bourbon, with Vodka, or with Rum

If you’re thinking of straying from gin in your Bee’s Knees, here are some thoughts on using bourbon, vodka, or rum. With bourbon, brands like Maker’s Mark or Buffalo Trace will add a rich, caramel note that could be interesting but will change the cocktail’s character. Vodka, especially a neutral one like Tito’s, will make the drink less botanical but refreshing. Rum, particularly a white rum like Bacardi, could add a tropical vibe. However, if you’re going to pick one, I’d suggest sticking with vodka. It’s the most neutral of the three and lets the honey and lemon shine, keeping the spirit of the original cocktail intact.

Bee’s Knees Mocktail

For a mocktail take on the Bee’s Knees, you can easily swap out the gin for a non-alcoholic gin substitute. These usually contain botanicals that mimic the flavor of traditional gin. Instead of honey syrup, you can opt for a simple or flavored syrup like lavender or rosemary to keep things interesting. Just like the alcoholic version, shake all the ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a lemon twist, and you’ve got a refreshing, alcohol-free version that’s just as enjoyable as the original.

Best Gin for a Bee’s Knees

You’ve got options when picking the best gin for a Bee’s Knees. A classic London Dry Gin like Beefeater or Tanqueray works great, offering a clean, botanical kick that pairs well with the honey and lemon. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, try Hendrick’s for its cucumber and rose notes, which add a unique twist. But if you ask me, Bombay Sapphire is a solid choice for this cocktail. Its balanced profile of 10 botanicals complements the honey syrup and lemon juice, making each sip a harmonious blend of flavors.

What is a Lavender Bee’s Knees?

In Lavender Bee’s Knees, lavender syrup replaces the standard honey syrup. The lavender adds a floral dimension to the drink, pairing well with the botanicals in the gin and the tartness of the lemon.

Bee’s Knees Variations

We have some options if you want to try some twists on the original:

• Lavender Bee’s Knees: The Lavender Bee’s Knees mix captivates with its calming, floral scent of lavender, creating a relaxing and aromatic experience. Perfectly pairing the subtle fragrance of lavender with the sweetness of honey, the gentle lavender notes in every sip feel like a peaceful retreat.
• Killer Bee: Bold and striking, the Killer Bee mix makes a statement with its incorporation of Mezcal. It often features a unique blend of ingredients that add a zesty and strong character. The robustness of this choice excites the taste buds, offering an exhilarating and lively experience.
• Blueberry Bee’s Knees:Adding a sweet and tangy flavor, the Blueberry Bee’s Knees mix offers a fruity and refreshing twist. The blueberries not only enhance the taste but also contribute a vibrant color. The burst of berry flavor is reminiscent of a delightful summer day in a glass.
• Ginger Bee’s Knees:The Ginger Bee’s Knees mix is known for its spicy and lively ginger taste. Adding a warm and zesty edge, it balances the sweetness of honey perfectly. The sharpness of ginger is particularly appealing, providing an energizing kick that’s both refreshing and bold.
• Bee Sting:Known for its unique blend of sweet and spicy flavors, the Bee Sting mix often includes a bit of heat from chili or pepper, creating an interesting contrast with the sweet base. The captivating mix of sweet and spicy in this drink makes each sip a delightful surprise.

History and Origin of the Bee’s Knees

The Bee’s Knees cocktail hails from the Prohibition era in the United States when alcohol was illegal and often of poor quality. Bartenders created the Bee’s Knees to mask the harsh flavors of bathtub gin, using ingredients like honey syrup and lemon juice. The name “Bee’s Knees” was popular slang during the 1920s, meaning “the best,” which aptly describes the drink’s reputation.