"That is simply...The Bee's Knees"

A refreshing drink that took it's name from a popular phrase made famous during the Roaring 20's.  But why the bee's knees?  What does it mean?  As bees fly from flower to flower the nectar sticks to their legs.  Because the knees of the bee is where all the sweet, good stuff is collected, the term became synonymous with all things "sweet and good".

David A. Embury dedicates a half page in his "The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks" (1948), speaking about this drink and the delicious variations of it.  His recipe is listed only as...

1 part Honey
2 parts Lemon Juice
8 parts Gin

Shake vigorously with cracked ice.  The addition of a small amount of orange juice (about 1 to 2 parts) makes an interesting variation.

When making a honey drink there is an added step to ensure a proper infusion.  Honey does not dissolve easily into cold liquids, so a syrup must be made first.  Typically, I will use 2 parts honey to 1 part water.  Boil the water and then stir in the honey until it all mixes together.  I love experimenting with different honeys to give slightly different variations, so go crazy!

Barragan's Bee's Knees

2 oz Boodles Gin
1 oz Honey Syrup (I used Clairmont Farms Lavender Infused Honey)
3/4 oz Meyer Lemon juice (Barragan grown!)

Add all ingredients into a shaker and strain over ice then garnish with a lemon zest.

Cheers!