The U.S. Open’s signature drink, the Honey Deuce cocktail, has become more than just a refreshing beverage—it’s a story, an experience, and a celebration.
The art of creating the perfect cocktail goes beyond the ingredients and recipe—it involves weaving a compelling narrative that resonates with patrons. A prime example of this mastery is the Honey Deuce, the official drink of the U.S. Open tennis tournament. A spin on spiked pink lemonade, this cocktail is more than a delightful blend; it’s an embodiment of the U.S. Open spirit.
Introduced in 2006, the Honey Deuce has earned its place as a beloved fixture at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, New York. Over 1.8 million cups of this concoction have been sold, with a frequency of one purchase every 3.8 seconds at peak times. The secret to its allure goes beyond the recipe—it’s about the story it tells.
Aleco Azqueta, Grey Goose’s vice president of marketing, explains that the Honey Deuce isn’t just a drink; it’s an experience. The cocktail’s success stems from a combination of factors, starting with its appearance. Served in a unique cup emblazoned with the names of U.S. Open champions since 1968, the drink doubles as a collector’s item, fetching interest on platforms like eBay.
Daniel Zausner, the COO of the tennis center, highlights the cup’s appeal as a cherished souvenir, transcending the cocktail itself. This collector’s item has become an integral part of the experience, adding to the allure of the premium cocktail it holds.
Yet, the Honey Deuce’s appeal isn’t confined to the cup; the drink itself is a masterpiece. The bright pink color and three honeydew pieces create a visually striking presentation that’s as refreshing as it looks. The honeydew pieces, evoking tennis balls and aligning with the drink’s name (a nod to the term “deuce” in tennis), add depth to the experience.
The cocktail’s ingredients contribute to its popularity as well. Crafted with Grey Goose vodka, lemonade, and raspberry liqueur, the Honey Deuce is carefully balanced to cater to a wide range of palates. Its relatively low alcohol content suits the calm atmosphere of tennis matches, while its sweetness appeals to a broader audience.
The origin story of the Honey Deuce is intertwined with the iconic mint julep served at the Kentucky Derby. Inspired by the julep’s popularity and the unique experience it offered attendees, Zausner conceptualized a signature cocktail for the U.S. Open. This underscores the importance of crafting a drink that resonates with its target audience and encapsulates the event’s essence.
In the world of cocktails, the Honey Deuce stands as a testament to the power of storytelling, visual aesthetics, and taste. It goes beyond being a drink; it’s a cherished memory, a conversation starter, and a toast to the U.S. Open experience.
