Bee's Knees Royale
A sophisticated evolution of the Prohibition classic topped with sparkling wine—transforming the gin, lemon, and honey base into an effervescent celebration.
18%
ABV
medium
Difficulty
coupe
Glass
Flavor Profile
History & Heritage
“The Bee's Knees Royale is a modern evolution of the Prohibition-era Bee's Knees, elevated with sparkling wine to create an effervescent celebration. This cocktail bridges the rustic ingenuity of speakeasy drinks with the refined elegance of classic Champagne cocktails, transforming a historically significant sour into a sophisticated modern libation perfect for special occasions.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
2 oz
0.8 oz
2:1 honey to water ratio
0.5 oz
Well-chilled, high-quality sparkling wine
2.5 oz
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Chill a coupe glass thoroughly in freezer
Combine gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup in cocktail shaker
Fill shaker three-quarters full with ice
Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds until well-frosted
Double-strain into chilled glass
Top with chilled sparkling wine, pouring gently
Garnish with expressed lemon twist
Glassware
Served up in a chilled coupe glass
Garnish
Long, elegant twist with oils expressed over drink
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Use honey syrup, not straight honey, for proper incorporation
Sparkling wine should be added just before serving
Express lemon oils for crucial aromatic experience
Serve immediately while carbonation is vibrant
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Bee's Knees
Prohibition-era gin, lemon, and honey shaken into a bright, velvety sour whose sweetness once softened rough bathtub gin.
Bee Sting
A spicy modern interpretation of the Bee's Knees with gin, lemon, honey, and Ancho Reyes chile liqueur—sweet, sour, and fiery heat in perfect balance.
Berry 75
A modern evolution of the French 75 with fresh blackberry syrup and sparkling wine—vibrant, fruit-forward, and elegantly effervescent.