If you’re into cozy tea flavors and floral cocktails, the Earl Grey Lavender Bee’s Knees is about to become your new favorite. It’s a twist on the classic Bee’s Knees—traditionally made with gin, lemon, and honey—but with a bold splash of Earl Grey and a soft hit of lavender.
I don’t know about you, but I love bergamot and I’m always on the hunt for a cocktail that can keep that flavor without being overshadowed by lemon.
This Bee’s Knees does the trick.
You get equal parts citrusy, the tannins of the bergamot, and the floral aroma of the lavender all in one happy sip.
Use a more citrus forward gin for even more depth.
What Is a Bee’s Knees Cocktail?
The original Bee’s Knees dates back to Prohibition and combines just three ingredients: gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup. The name is old-school slang for “the best,” and it’s stuck around for good reason.
This Earl Grey Lavender version keeps the honey base but layers in floral lavender and a hint of strong tea, giving the classic a fragrant, modern upgrade.
When to Serve This
- Afternoon tea with a twist
- Spring and summer dinner parties
- Baby showers or bridal showers
- Self-care nights with a book or bath
- Anytime you want a drink that feels a little extra
Earl Grey Lavender Bee’s Knees Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1.5 oz gin
- 0.5 oz honey-lavender syrup*
- 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.75 oz brewed Earl Grey tea (strong and cooled)
- Garnish: Lemon twist or dried lavender sprig
Instructions
- Add the gin, honey-lavender syrup, lemon juice, and cooled Earl Grey tea to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake well (10–15 seconds) until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or a dried lavender sprig.
Mocktail Version
If you’re skipping alcohol, just leave out the gin and bump up the Earl Grey:
- 2 oz strong, cooled Earl Grey tea
- 0.75 oz honey-lavender syrup
- 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
- Optional: Add a splash of sparkling water for some fizz
Shake with ice and serve in a coupe or over fresh ice in a tall glass. Still totally refreshing and elegant.
