Apple Bee’s Knees

The Apple Bee’s Knees is a refreshing twist on the Prohibition-era classic. Gin forms the crisp base, while lemon juice brightens and honey syrup adds smooth sweetness. Apple juice gives the drink an orchard-fresh character that makes it perfect for autumn. Garnished with rosemary and apple slices, it brings together citrus, fruit, and herbaceous notes in a balanced and aromatic cocktail. Easy to prepare yet elegant in flavor, the Apple Bee’s Knees is an ideal choice for fall evenings, dinner parties, or whenever you want a seasonal take on a timeless gin cocktail.

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Tasting Notes

The Apple Bee’s Knees Cocktail is a refreshing twist on the Prohibition-era classic, blending gin’s botanical depth with apple’s natural sweetness and bright citrus. Lemon juice brings tart acidity, balancing the smooth apple juice. Honey syrup softens the edges with floral sweetness, tying the flavors together harmoniously. The gin’s herbal character shines through, giving the drink complexity without overpowering. A rosemary sprig adds aroma and a savory note, while apple slices enhance the presentation and flavor. Crisp, balanced, and slightly sweet, this cocktail offers a seasonal variation of a timeless recipe, making it approachable yet layered.

Equipment and Glassware

This Apple Bee’s Knees requires only a few basic tools. A cocktail shaker is essential for blending the gin, lemon juice, apple juice, and honey syrup while chilling the drink. A jigger ensures precise measurements for balance between citrus, sweetness, and spirit. A strainer allows for a smooth pour into the serving glass. A bar spoon is optional but useful if the honey syrup needs an extra stir before shaking. For presentation, a coupe or martini glass offers a classic look, while a rocks glass with ice gives a more casual style. A paring knife helps prepare apple slices for garnish.

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz lemon juice
• 1 oz apple juice
• 1 oz honey syrup
• Rosemary sprig Garnish

Instructions

• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Add the gin, lemon juice, apple juice, and honey syrup to the shaker.
• Shake well to combine and chill the mixture.
• Strain the mixture into a glass.
• Garnish with a sprig of rosemary and apple slices.
• Enjoy your Apple Bee’s Knees Cocktail!

Pro Tips

• Use freshly pressed apple juice for better flavor.
• Warm honey slightly before making syrup for easy blending.
• Experiment with gin styles London Dry for classic sharpness, or botanical-forward gins for complexity.
• Adjust honey syrup to match your sweetness preference.
• Double strain for a smoother pour.
• Garnish with thin apple slices that float neatly on top.
• Lightly smack the rosemary sprig before garnishing to release its aroma.

When to Serve

The Apple Bee’s Knees Cocktail is perfect for autumn and spring, when apple and citrus flavors feel most at home. It works beautifully as a pre-dinner drink, offering a refreshing balance of sweet, tart, and herbal notes. Its polished presentation makes it ideal for dinner parties, weddings, or holiday gatherings, while its easy preparation makes it suitable for casual evenings at home. The cocktail pairs well with light appetizers, roasted poultry, or cheese boards. With its crisp balance and seasonal twist, the Apple Bee’s Knees is a versatile choice for both festive occasions and relaxed sipping.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Gin: Bombay Sapphire, Tanqueray, or Hendrick’s.
• Apple Juice: Martinelli’s, R.W. Knudsen, or orchard-pressed juice.
• Honey Syrup: Homemade with equal parts honey and water, or Monin Honey Syrup.
• Lemon Juice: Fresh-squeezed for the sharpest acidity.
• Garnish: Fresh rosemary sprigs and Honeycrisp apple slices.

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• Autumn Apple
• Autumn Vodka Smash
• Figgin’ Vanilla Gin Fizz
• Autumn Fizz
• Prickly Pear Cinnamon Gin