The Honey Deuce, famous for its sweet raspberry and honey flavors, has become a defining drink of the U.S. Open, with nearly 740,000 sold in 2025 alone. If you love tennis but find the original drink too sweet, there are new ways to enjoy this iconic cocktail—both with a refined martini twist and an easy mocktail at home.
- Honey Deuce sold 740,000 times at 2025 U.S. Open
- Martini version balances sweetness and citrus
- Mocktail option keeps flavor fresh and light
What happened
The Honey Deuce cocktail, popularized by the U.S. Open and instantly recognizable by its honeydew melon 'tennis ball' garnish, has become a staple for fans both at the tournament and beyond. In 2025, nearly three-quarters of a million of these drinks were sold, generating almost $17 million from the $23 price tag per cocktail.
Despite the drink’s popularity, its sweetness can be a bit much for some. The original recipe includes vodka, Chambord raspberry liqueur, and lemonade—which adds considerable sugar. This has inspired bartenders and enthusiasts to craft variations that keep the spirit of the Honey Deuce but deliver a more balanced experience.
Why it feels good
The Knickerbocker’s St. Cloud Rooftop in New York City, known as the birthplace of the Dry Martini, offers a martini-style Honey Deuce that emphasizes elegance while retaining the classic flavors of vodka, raspberry, citrus, and honey. Using fresh lemon juice instead of lemonade helps cut the sweetness, resulting in a cocktail that tastes vibrant and refined rather than overly sugary.
This revision not only respects the original's joyful character but enhances it by controlling sweetness and serving the drink chilled and perfectly garnished. The approach makes the Honey Deuce feel less like a fruit cocktail and more like a sophisticated, refreshing martini—ideal for tennis fans seeking something special.
What to enjoy or watch next
For home tennis fans and party hosts, batching the martini-style Honey Deuce in advance is a convenient way to prepare. Mixing vodka, Chambord, and honey syrup ahead of time and adding fresh lemon juice at serving keeps the drink lively and bright. Pre-frozen honeydew melon balls on cocktail picks make a fun and authentic garnish ready to impress guests.
If you prefer an alcohol-free option, a crisp and lightly sweet mocktail inspired by the Honey Deuce avoids too much sugar while still offering refreshing flavors suited for hot summer days at the stadium—or your own backyard viewing party.