The Honey Deuce was crafted in 2006 by restaurateur and Grey Goose brand ambassador Nick Mautone, at the behest of tournament sponsor Grey Goose, who wanted a signature cocktail for the U.S. Open—refreshing, visually striking, and easy to serve in large quantities.
The lightbulb moment came when Mautone spied honeydew melon balls at a farmer’s market—they looked just like tennis balls. That inspired both the distinctive garnish and the punny name: Honey from honeydew, and Deuce, the tennis term for a 40-40 tie.
Ingredients & Presentation
The drink is composed of:
1¼ oz Grey Goose vodka
¾ oz (approx.) fresh lemonade
½ oz raspberry liqueur (Chambord)
Garnish: skewered honeydew melon balls resembling tennis balls
(Exact proportions can vary slightly depending on source, but this is the commonly used recipe.).
Served in a collectible highball glass or Collins-style tumbler—often branded with US Open details—the presentation elevates the fan experience .
A Grand Slam Favorite
Since its debut—either 2006 or 2007 depending on the source—the Honey Deuce has become synonymous with the US Open
Forbes. It’s the US Open’s iconic cocktail the way the Mint Julep defines the Kentucky Derby or Pimm’s Cup graces Wimbledon.
By the Numbers – Popularity & Impact
Sales & Revenue
In 2024, over 556,000 Honey Deuces were sold, generating more than $10 million.
In previous years, numbers ranged from 450,000 at $22 ($9.9M) to 555,000 yielding ~$12.8M.
Cultural Reach
The Honey Deuce has become a social media darling—its bright pink hue, melon ball garnish, and distinctive cup make it an Instagram-worthy phenomenon.
Its popularity extends beyond the US Open: it has appeared in bars across New York City, in ready-to-drink cans (e.g., via Cocktail Courier), and even in merchandise like T-shirts and hats.
A Toast to Grey Goose
Behind the cocktail is Grey Goose, the premium French vodka brand founded in 1997 and acquired by Bacardi in 2004.
Why Honey Deuce Works So Well
Visual Appeal: The melon balls are playful and thematic.
Balanced Flavor: A harmonious mix of tart lemonade, sweet raspberry liqueur, and smooth vodka.
Accessibility: Simple to make in high volumes—perfect for a busy stadium bar.
Memorability: Clever name + souvenir cup = lasting impression.
Branding & Timing: Taps into tennis culture, social sharing, and the energy of summer in NYC.
Looking Ahead
Expect new variations or signature drinks at the US Open—like the recently introduced “Watermelon Slice” for 2025—but the Honey Deuce remains a staple.
Its evolution suggests potential for more expanding retail, home cocktail markets, and branded experiences—think frozen versions, collaborations, limited-edition glassware, and more.
In Summary
The Honey Deuce is more than just a cocktail—it’s a cultural symbol. Born from a clever garnish idea and crafted for speed and flavor, it captures the spirit of the US Open: vibrant, refreshing, and endlessly shareable. From the courts to the ‘Gram, it’s a drink that has truly deuced into tennis lore.