Tequila Honey Bee

By Steve Kilcullen Jump to Recipe

Have a sweet and rich sipping experience with the Tequila Honey Bee.

Tonight’s cocktail puts me in a bit of a rock ‘n’ roll mood.

For years, I played guitar in a number of bands, got to play famous stages in front of packed houses, and even found myself recording in a few well-known studios, too. All through it, the odd libation would of course be enjoyed. Usually, it’d be of the Jack ‘n’ Coke variety, as Keith Richards and Lemmy’s shadow loomed large over loud music.

But tonight’s recipe is what makes me miss those days. I can’t see its name without hearing Tom Petty mutter, “Alright here we go, a little number we call give me some sugar little honey natural bee” before jumping into one of the meatiest and grooviest guitar riffs around. And where the late, great Petty’s “Honey Bee” is a massive and rousing rock classic from the mid-1990s, the Tequila Honey Bee is a modern cocktail favorite from the mid-2010s.

Invented at the Egg Shop in New York by Nick Korbee, the Tequila Honey Bee is a contemporary riff on the historic Bee’s Knees concoction, which swaps out the gin and replaces it with a golden reposado tequila.

What is the best tequila to use in a Tequila Honey Bee?

As mentioned above, a reposado tequila is the preferred choice of spirit for the Tequila Honey Bee. Añejo is more of a sipping tequila, and a silver variety, which is clear and unaged, might feel too light amongst the lemon juice and honey syrup. An amber-hued reposado will be richer and more complex-tasting than a silver tequila, and will meld in a wonderfully balanced way with the citrus and sweet elements.

What glassware and garnish are used?

You can chill a coupe in your freezer for up to 30 minutes before pouring and serving for an extra cold sip. Garnish the rim with a lemon twist.

Is honey syrup the same as honey?

No. Honey syrup is close to simple syrup in that it is made by boiling equal parts honey and water together until thoroughly dissolved. It can be used in cocktails, mocktails, tea, lemonade and can even be used in salad dressings, marinades and various sauces.

Similar cocktails to the Tequila Honey Bee

If you like a little sharp tang from some citrus softened by a little sweetness, you probably have enjoyed a libation or two that features a close flavor profile. The Tequila Honey Bee is one such drink, as you now know, and if you’re in the mood for more of the same, let Twist & Toast give you a hand at shaking or stirring up a few more for yourself.

• Bootleg – Fizzy, sweet and sour, this tipple is sure to please your audience when entertaining.
• Scofflaw – Grenadine and lemon juice join forces with dry vermouth and rye whiskey to (figuratively) break some laws.
• Sidecar – Another historic sipper, crafted with lemon juice, orange liqueur and cognac.
• Southside – A minty, sweet and tart concoction, said to be Al Capone’s favorite.