The US Open's signature Honey Deuce cocktail is facing criticism from some attendees who claim its quality has diminished due to the drink now being pre-mixed and served on tap. The $23 beverage, a blend of vodka, raspberry lemonade, and lemonade, has long been a popular choice at the tournament, but a shift towards batch preparation has ignited a debate about its taste and consistency.
"Now the Honey Deuce is on draft, and that has significantly decreased the quality of the cocktail," said Sam Commodari, an influencer who shared his thoughts on Instagram. He added that while a $10 drink on tap might be acceptable, a $23 cocktail should consistently be of the highest quality.
While many defended the drink's quality, others agreed with Commodari, expressing disappointment with the altered taste. However, the tournament's mixologists and beverage industry professionals offered differing perspectives on the issue.
Miguel Munoz, beverage director at Renwick Hospitality Group, acknowledged that batching can affect cocktail quality, stating, "In this case, Honey Deuce, once you batch, the alcohol is going to keep the life of the juice, but after a few days you will taste that the cocktail is not as fresh as when you make it from scratch." He also noted that batched drinks can lose flavor more quickly than stronger concoctions.
Despite these concerns, some argue that if the batched drinks are consumed quickly, as they were last year when lines for the cocktail stretched up to 30 minutes, attendees may not notice a difference. The US Open has utilized draft service for the Honey Deuce at select locations for several years to improve efficiency during peak times.
Nick Mautone, creator of the Grey Goose Honey Deuce, defended the practice, asserting that serving cocktails on draft does not inherently compromise quality. "Some of the best bars around the world feature draft cocktails on menu," Mautone stated. He emphasized that the recipe for the Grey Goose Honey Deuce remains unchanged and that each batch undergoes quality control testing to ensure it meets guest expectations. "Whether poured from a tap or prepared by a bartender, guests are getting the same iconic Grey Goose Honey Deuce, served over ice with its signature honeydew melon garnish," he added.