The Bee's Knees – A Lavender Cocktail

The Bee's Knees is a Prohibition-era classic that was made to mask the harsh taste of bathtub gin — but today it's celebrated for its bright, citrusy elegance. Add a touch of lavender simple syrup and it becomes something truly special. Floral, refreshing, and just a little fancy, this is the perfect cocktail for a warm summer evening.

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin
• ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
• ¾ oz lavender simple syrup (recipe below)
• Ice
• Lemon twist or fresh lavender sprig, for garnish

For the Lavender Simple Syrup 

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender buds

Make the Lavender Simple Syrup

1. Combine water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the dried lavender buds and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 20 minutes.
4. Strain through a fine mesh sieve, discarding the lavender buds.
5. Cool completely before using. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Directions

1. Add gin, fresh lemon juice, and lavender simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
2. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until well chilled.
3. Double strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist or a fresh lavender sprig.
5. Sip, sigh, and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• Honey variation: Swap the simple syrup for a lavender honey syrup — combine equal parts honey and water with lavender buds for a richer, more complex flavor that leans into the "bee" theme.
• Make it a mocktail: Replace the gin with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic spirit for an equally elegant alcohol-free version.
• Adjust the floral intensity: Steep the lavender for less time (10 minutes) for a subtler flavor, or longer (30 minutes) for a more pronounced floral note.
• Use culinary lavender: Always use food-grade culinary lavender buds for the best flavor and safety. Our Culinary Lavender – Royal Velvet Buds are perfect for this recipe.

Why Lavender?

Lavender and citrus are a natural pairing — the floral, slightly herbal notes of lavender complement the brightness of lemon beautifully. When combined with the botanical complexity of gin, the result is a cocktail that feels both timeless and fresh. It's the kind of drink that makes people ask, "What is that flavor?"

Ready to make your own lavender simple syrup? Pick up a bag of our Culinary Lavender – Royal Velvet Buds — grown and harvested for culinary use, with a clean, true lavender flavor that shines in cocktails, baked goods, and beyond.