Last summer I went to the US Open for the very first time, and let me tell you — the energy of watching Djokovic and Tiafoe live with my girls was unforgettable. Of course, I had to try the famous Honey Deuce, the tournament’s signature cocktail… but at $46 for two drinks, I knew I needed to figure out how to make them at home. This version is my spin: crisp lemonade, smooth vodka, a splash of raspberry liqueur, and those signature melon ball “tennis balls” on top. It’s refreshing, playful, and the perfect cocktail to bring a little bit of the Open to your summer get-togethers.
Fast-forward a year and now I’m saving my money, catching the Open from my couch, and sipping this same cocktail out of last year’s souvenir cups — way more chill, but just as iconic.
Ingredient Breakdown
- Lemonade – The base of the drink – you can use fresh or store-bought lemonade, just be aware the sweetness of the lemonade will influence the flavor of your drink. For a sweeter cocktail, use the traditional store-bought lemonade. For a less sweet version, look for low sugar lemonades (I like Natalie’s as it’s not too sweet).
- Vodka – Grey Goose is traditional to the Honey Deuce at the US open so that is what I used here, but choose your preferred vodka.
- Chambord (or raspberry liqueur) – Adds a layer of berry sweetness and depth that balances the citrus. Chambord is classic, but any raspberry liqueur will do.
- Fresh lemon juice (optional) – For extra brightness and acidity, especially if your lemonade is on the sweeter side.
- Melon balls – The star garnish! Traditionally made with honeydew for that signature look – thread three onto a cocktail pick to mimic the look of tennis balls.
- Ice – Essential for keeping it cold and refreshing, just avoid adding it until just before serving to not dilute the cocktail.
🎾 What is the Honey Deuce?
The Honey Deuce is the official cocktail of the US Open tennis tournament, and it’s become just as iconic as the matches themselves. The classic recipe features vodka, lemonade, Chambord, and honeydew melon balls that look like mini tennis balls. The traditional recipe is on the Grey Goose website, I just scaled up the recipe slightly because I love it! Fans sip it courtside every summer — and while it costs a pretty penny at the tournament ($23!!!), it’s surprisingly easy (and way cheaper) to recreate at home.
This version stays true to the spirit of the Honey Deuce but is flexible enough to serve at parties, whether in a single glass or scaled up in a pitcher.
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The Honey Deuce
- Total Time: 5
Description
This Honey Deuce cocktail, inspired by the signature cocktail at the US Open combines vodka, lemonade, raspberry liqueur, and frozen melon ball “tennis balls” for a refreshing summer drink that’s perfect for sipping during the US Open or any backyard gathering.
Ingredients
For 1 Serving:
- 3½ oz lemonade
- 1½ oz vodka
- ¾ oz chambord or raspberry liqueur
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice (optional, for extra tartness)*
- Ice
- Honeydew melon balls for garnish
For 8 Servings:
- 3½ cups lemonade
- 1½ cups vodka
- ¾ cup Chambord or raspberry liqueur
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (optional, for extra tartness)*
- Ice
- Honeydew melon balls for garnish
Instructions
Make the melon ball garnish:
- Slice the honeydew in half and use a melon baller to scoop out balls of fruit (press, twist, and scoop in a circular motion). Place them on a plate or tray, then transfer to the freezer while you prep the cocktails — this helps them stay firm and keep their shape. Plan for 3 melon balls per cocktail.
For Single-Serving Honey Deuce Cocktails:
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Add the lemonade, vodka, raspberry liqueur, and fresh lemon juice (if using).
- Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with 3 melon balls threaded onto a cocktail pick and rest it across the top of the glass.
For Batch Honey Deuce Cocktails:
- In a pitcher, combine the lemonade, vodka, raspberry liqueur, and lemon juice (if using). Stir well.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or until ready to serve.
- When serving, pour into individual glasses over ice.
- Garnish each glass with 3 melon balls on a cocktail pick.
Notes
*The level of sweetness in this cocktail will depend on your lemonade. If you are using a regular storebought lemonade, I like adding some lemon juice to counteract the sweetness. If you are using a low sugar lemonade, you can skip the lemon juice.
- Prep Time: 5
- Category: Cocktails