In the world of cocktails, there are classics, and then there are the classics that stand out even among the classics. The Bee's Knees is one such drink, an elegant and refreshingly timeless concoction that not only delights the palate but also comes with a fascinating slice of history.

During the era of Prohibition in the United States (1920-1933), when the production and sale of alcoholic beverages were banned, the Bee's Knees cocktail emerged as a clever way to mask the less-than-palatable taste of homemade bathtub gin. The combination of gin, honey, and lemon juice served a dual purpose: it made the rough alcohol more palatable and created a drink that was both smooth and sweet, making it the bee's knees, or in other words, the best thing around.

(Originally published 10/27/23)