It wouldn’t be a tailgate party list without a few tasty cocktails to serve. The Honey Deuce is a famous US Open cocktail and has been considered the tournament’s signature cocktail. It’s essentially a boozy raspberry lemonade filled with frozen melon balls. Watch out with this drink. It’s so yummy that you might end up having too much!
The Honey Deuce
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 Oz Grey Goose Vodka
- 3 Oz Fresh Squeezed Lemonade
- 1/2 Oz Chambord or Premium Raspberry Liqueur
- Crushed Ice
- Frozen Honeydew Melon Balls
- Slice of Lime
Instructions
Nutrition
🍈 Honey Deuce FAQs
When it comes to iconic sports drinks, few are as instantly recognizable as the Honey Deuce—the official cocktail of the US Open. This refreshing mix of raspberry, lemonade, and melon is a perfect match for any sunny tailgate, whether you’re parked at the courts or just celebrating from home. Here’s everything you need to know to shake up your own crowd-pleasing version.
What is Honey Deuce made of?
The classic Honey Deuce combines Grey Goose vodka, fresh lemonade, and a splash of Chambord or raspberry liqueur, garnished with honeydew melon balls stacked on a skewer to look like tennis balls. For a tailgate-friendly twist, you can pre-mix the drink in a large cooler or beverage dispenser—just keep the melon garnish on ice until serving for that fresh, polished look.
What does Honey Deuce mean?
The name “Honey Deuce” is a playful nod to tennis scoring—“deuce” meaning a tied game—and the honeydew melon garnish that gives the drink its signature look. It’s both clever and festive, making it a fun conversation starter at your next tennis-themed or summer tailgate party.
What does a Honey Deuce taste like?
It’s light, sweet, and tangy with a crisp finish. The lemonade base keeps it refreshing, while the raspberry liqueur adds a hint of berry richness. It’s the kind of cocktail that goes down easy on a warm afternoon—ideal for outdoor gatherings, especially when paired with light bites like fruit skewers, shrimp cocktail, or finger sandwiches.
How much is a Honey Deuce at the US Open?
At the 2025 US Open, a Honey Deuce runs around $22–$25 depending on location and souvenir cup options. Luckily, making your own at a tailgate is much more affordable—and you can batch it ahead of time for a crowd. Pro tip: Serve it in clear plastic cups with melon garnishes so it keeps that signature US Open look while staying tailgate practical.
Whether you’re watching the finals on a big screen at your tailgate or hosting friends for a backyard match-viewing party, the Honey Deuce adds a touch of New York flair to any setup. So grab your pitcher, prep your melon balls, and toast to good serves and great company!
Love the Honey Deuce? Serve it in style with our tips on how to throw a U.S. Open party that’s worthy of center court.
