Whether you prefer the classic, the twist, or the showstopper version of the Bee’s Knees, they’re all perfect for anyone in search of a tangy, refreshing cocktail. Back in the days of Prohibition (when this cocktail was invented) the term “Bee’s Knees” was flapper slang for “the best.” So some might say that this is “the best” cocktail. Decide for yourself.

In this video, we’re using Barr Hill Gin to make our Bee’s Knees cocktails, and there’s no better gin for the job since Barr Hill is made with honey, and they use this cocktail to help save actual bees! Read all about that here: https://caledoniaspirits.com/bees-knees-week/

Thanks for watching the latest episode of Licensed To Distill’s new series, “1 Cocktail 3 Ways,” and a big thanks to our guest bartender and host, Karl of Spirit and Spoon. Recipes below!

1 COCKTAIL 3 WAYS:

1) Traditional Bee’s Knees

2 oz Barr Hill Gin

3/4 oz Lemon Juice

3/4 oz Honey Syrup (2 parts water to 1 part honey)

Shake with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass

Garnish: Lemon Twist

2) Mustard Seed’s Knees

2 oz Mustard Seed infused Barr Hill Gin

3/4 oz Lemon Juice

3/4 oz Honey Syrup (2 parts honey to 1 part water)

Shake with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass

Garnish: Side of salted pretzels

3) Bumblebee’s Kneecaps

2 oz Tom Cat Barrel Aged Gin (also from Barr Hill!)

3/4 oz Lemon Juice

3/4 oz Honey Ginger Syrup*

Egg white

Dry shake all ingredients (AKA shaking everything except the ice)

Add ice and shake again

Strained into ice filled rocks glass

Garnish: We used edible flowers, but you can also use candied ginger, a lemon twist, or just put a fidget spinner, bowling ball, or miniature top hat next to it and call any of those things a garnish.

*Honey Ginger Syrup : 2 parts honey to 1 part water; add as much fresh pressed ginger as you prefer. Example: For 6 oz of Ginger Honey Syrup, we use 4 oz of honey and 2 oz of hot water. Mix together until the honey has liquified. Then we add 2 oz of fresh pressed ginger and stir.