Tip Top Bees Knees

Bees Knees takes its name from the classic Prohibition-era cocktail, which is traditionally built from gin, lemon juice and honey. This is the ready-to-drink version from TIP TOP. The details supplied here don't give an ABV, a base spirit or a flavour breakdown, so check the can or bottle label for those. Drinks sold under this name usually aim for a honeyed citrus profile: lemon brightness up front, a rounded floral sweetness through the middle, and a dry or herbal edge if gin is the base. Serve it cold. Chill it in the fridge until properly cold, then pour over a good amount of ice, or straight into a chilled glass if you like it without dilution. Because the honey sweetness is easier to notice as a drink warms, keeping it cold keeps the lemon in balance. A rocks glass or short tumbler suits ice service, and a coupe or small stemmed glass suits a served-up pour. A thin strip of lemon peel on top adds aroma without changing the drink. You don't need to mix anything, but a few simple additions work with this style. A splash of soda water stretches it into a lighter, longer drink in a highball glass. A sprig of thyme or a slice of fresh ginger on the ice suits the honey and lemon. For food, expect it to go well with soft cheeses such as brie or goat's cheese, salty cured meats, grilled chicken, and light seafood dishes like prawns or calamari with lemon.