The Honey Deuce: A Step-by-Step Guide To The US Open's Signature Drink

Shawn

3 min read

Post on Sep 02, 2025

4.0

Share

The Honey Deuce: A Step-by-Step Guide to the US Open's Signature Cocktail

The US Open. The roar of the crowd, the electrifying rallies, and… the Honey Deuce. This isn't just any tennis tournament; it's a celebration of sport, skill, and a deliciously refreshing cocktail that's become synonymous with the event. For many, the experience isn't complete without a taste of this iconic drink. This guide will take you step-by-step through creating the perfect Honey Deuce, so you can enjoy a little bit of US Open magic at home.

What is a Honey Deuce?

The Honey Deuce is a vodka-based cocktail, perfectly balanced with the sweetness of honey and the tartness of lemonade. It's garnished with fresh raspberries and a generous helping of muddled mint, making it visually stunning as well as incredibly tasty. Its refreshing nature makes it the ideal beverage for those long, sunny days spent watching world-class tennis (or enjoying the beautiful summer weather!).

Ingredients You'll Need:

• 1.5 oz Vodka (a high-quality vodka enhances the flavor)
• 3 oz Lemonade (freshly squeezed is best, but bottled works in a pinch)
• 0.5 oz Honey Syrup (see instructions below)
• Fresh Raspberries (about 6-8)
• Fresh Mint Sprigs (2-3)
• Ice

Making the Honey Syrup:

This is the crucial element that gives the Honey Deuce its unique sweetness. It's incredibly simple to make:

1. Combine equal parts honey and water (e.g., 1/2 cup honey, 1/2 cup water) in a small saucepan.
2. Heat gently over low heat, stirring constantly, until the honey is completely dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and let cool completely before storing in the refrigerator.

Putting it All Together: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Muddle the Mint: Gently muddle the mint sprigs in the bottom of a shaker to release their oils. Avoid over-muddling, as this can make the mint taste bitter.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add the vodka, lemonade, honey syrup, and ice to the shaker.
3. Shake Well: Close the shaker tightly and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the shaker is well chilled.
4. Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into a chilled Collins glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish: Garnish generously with fresh raspberries and a mint sprig. Don't be shy!

Tips for the Perfect Honey Deuce:

• Use Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the cocktail. Fresh lemonade and high-quality vodka make a noticeable difference.
• Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey syrup to your preference. Some prefer it sweeter, while others like a more tart flavor.
• Chill Your Glassware: Chilling your glass beforehand helps keep the drink cold for longer.
• Make it a Pitcher: For larger gatherings, simply multiply the recipe to make a pitcher of Honey Deuces.

Beyond the Court: Enjoying Your Honey Deuce

While the Honey Deuce is undeniably linked to the US Open, its refreshing taste makes it perfect for any summer occasion. Imagine enjoying one by the pool, at a barbecue, or even just relaxing on your patio. It's the perfect summer cocktail, simple enough for any home bartender.

Ready to experience a taste of the US Open? Try making your Honey Deuce today! Let us know your experience in the comments below! And for more delicious cocktail recipes, check out our other articles on [link to related article on cocktails].