Make The Perfect Honey Deuce: The US Open's Signature Drink

Shawn

3 min read

Post on Sep 01, 2025

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Make the Perfect Honey Deuce: The US Open's Signature Drink

The US Open. The roar of the crowd, the crack of the racquet, the thrilling rallies… and the refreshing sweetness of the Honey Deuce. This iconic cocktail has become as synonymous with the tournament as the coveted championship trophy itself. But what exactly is a Honey Deuce, and how can you recreate this summertime sensation at home? Let's delve into the details and perfect your Honey Deuce recipe this year.

What is a Honey Deuce?

The Honey Deuce is a deceptively simple yet incredibly delicious cocktail, perfectly balancing sweet and tart flavors. At its core, it's a vodka-based drink featuring Chambord raspberry liqueur, lemonade, and a splash of honey. The garnish? Fresh raspberries and a generous sprig of mint. This combination creates a vibrant, refreshing drink ideal for the hot summer days of the US Open.

Ingredients for the Perfect Honey Deuce:

To achieve that perfect Honey Deuce, precision is key. Here's a breakdown of the ingredients you'll need:

• Vodka: 1.5 ounces of your preferred high-quality vodka. A neutral vodka allows the other flavors to shine.
• Chambord Raspberry Liqueur: 0.75 ounces of this luxurious raspberry liqueur adds a rich, fruity depth.
• Lemonade: 3 ounces of fresh-squeezed lemonade is best, but a high-quality bottled variety will also work. Avoid overly sweet lemonades.
• Honey: A teaspoon or two of honey, to taste. Adjust based on your preferred sweetness level. Local honey adds an extra touch of authenticity!
• Garnish: Fresh raspberries and a sprig of mint are essential for both aesthetics and aroma.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Chill: Begin by chilling your glasses. This ensures your Honey Deuce stays refreshingly cold throughout.
2. Combine: In a shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, Chambord, lemonade, and honey.
3. Shake: Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to thoroughly chill and mix the ingredients.
4. Strain: Strain the mixture into your chilled glass.
5. Garnish: Add a generous amount of fresh raspberries and a sprig of mint.

Tips for the Ultimate Honey Deuce:

• Fresh is Best: Using fresh lemonade and raspberries elevates the drink significantly. The difference in taste is noticeable.
• Adjust to Taste: Don't be afraid to experiment with the amount of honey to suit your preference. Some may prefer a sweeter, others a more tart Honey Deuce.
• Presentation Matters: A beautifully garnished drink is a pleasure to both make and consume. Take your time and create an appealing presentation.
• Upgrade Your Garnish: Consider adding a sugared rim to your glass for an extra touch of elegance.

Beyond the US Open:

While intrinsically linked to the US Open, the Honey Deuce transcends the tennis court. Its refreshing nature makes it perfect for any summer gathering, barbecue, or even a quiet evening on the patio.

Conclusion:

Making the perfect Honey Deuce is simpler than you might think. With a few high-quality ingredients and a bit of attention to detail, you can recreate this US Open classic at home. So, grab your shaker, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the refreshing taste of summer! Now go forth and enjoy the game… and your delicious Honey Deuce!