Honey Deuce Cocktail

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Even though the coffee shop sirens are trying to lure us away with thoughts of pumpkin spice, it is still summer and still quite hot outside. So we don’t have to jump just yet. There is still time for a Honey Deuce.

When it comes to summer cocktails, few have made quite the splash as the Honey Deuce. With its refreshing blend of vodka, lemonade, and raspberry liqueur—and its signature garnish of melon balls—the Honey Deuce has become more than just a cocktail. It’s also synonymous with one of the biggest sporting events of the year.

Just as you can’t think of the Kentucky Derby without the Mint Julep, the Honey Deuce is the cocktail that has become a summer tradition.

The cocktail is especially famous for its association with the US Open, which takes place at the end of August every year, and where it has become a fan favorite. Over the years, spectators have embraced the drink as part of the tournament experience, with the instantly recognizable cocktail appearing throughout the stands and hospitality areas.

 

What Exactly Is a Honey Deuce?

 

The Honey Deuce is a very simple cocktail. The recipe combines vodka, lemonade, and raspberry liqueur, typically served over ice in a tall glass. The finishing touch is a trio of honeydew melon balls, which are meant to resemble tennis balls, and are my favorite part of the whole drink. :)

It is a refreshing combination of sweet, tart, and fruity flavors. The lemonade provides a bright citrus base, while the raspberry liqueur adds sweetness and a vibrant berry flavor. Vodka keeps the cocktail crisp and clean without overpowering the other ingredients.

And then there’s the garnish. Those three little melon balls aren’t just decorative—they’re what give the Honey Deuce its personality and make it instantly recognizable. They look like tiny tennis balls!

 

Why Is It Called a “Honey Deuce”?

 

“Honey” ties into the cocktail’s honeydew melon garnish, creating a playful name that connects the drink directly to its tennis roots.

As the name is a clever nod to tennis, “Deuce” is a term that refers to a score of 40–40 when players are tied, and one must win by two points.

 

The Drink of the US Open

 

The Honey Deuce has developed an almost cult-like following at the US Open. It became its official drink in 2006. Part of its appeal is its visual identity. The pinkish drink, green melon balls, and tall glass make it perfect for photos—and perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.

The cocktail has also become a popular tradition for people watching the tournament from home. You don’t have to be sitting courtside to enjoy one. Making a Honey Deuce at home is an easy way to bring a little bit of the US Open atmosphere to your own backyard, patio, or viewing party.

So how do we make one?

There are only four ingredients:

• Lemonade (you can make your own or use store-bought)
• Vodka (The official drink at the US Open uses Grey Goose vodka, but you can use your favorite)
• Raspberry liqueur
• Honeydew melon

A highball glass is the one to use for this cocktail, but use your favorite! Use a melon baller to scoop two or three balls from a honeydew melon. Fill the glass halfway with ice, and stir to chill the glass.

Then add to a cocktail shaker:

• 3 ounces of lemonade
• 1 1/5 ounces of vodka
• 1/2 ounce of raspberry liqueur

Fill your glass with more ice, and strain the mixture of lemonade, vodka, and liqueur into your chilled glass.

Put the melon balls on a toothpick and use as a garnish for your drink. That’s it!

If you would prefer to make this Honey Deuce as a larger batch for a crowd, just use 3 cups of lemonade, 1 1/2 cups of vodka, and 1/2 cup of the raspberry liqueur.

 

A Perfect Summer Cocktail

 

Whether you’re a tennis fan or simply looking for a refreshing drink to finish out the summer, the Honey Deuce checks all the boxes. It’s colorful, easy to make, refreshing, and just unique enough to stand out from the usual summer cocktails.

So grab some lemonade, vodka, raspberry liqueur, and a melon baller. Add plenty of ice, garnish with those little signature melon balls, and raise a glass to summer!

And if you make a Honey Deuce, I’d love to know your thoughts!

 

And I’d love for you to follow me on Pinterest!