From Honey Deuce to Honey, Don’t.
Party-goers are expressing their discontent as the beloved drink of the US Open is now pre-mixed and available on tap. They argue that this change is essentially a recipe for disaster.
A frustrated fan kicked off a heated discussion recently, claiming that since bartenders have started relying on batch preparation, there’s been a noticeable decline in the quality of the $23 Honey Deuce. The consensus seems to be that it’s no longer made fresh, and that’s a problem.
“Now the Honey Deuce is on draft, and that has significantly decreased the quality of the cocktail,” said Maryland influencer Sam Commodari in a widely shared Instagram post.
“If it’s a $10 drink on draft, you can’t really complain,” he added, “But this is a $23 cocktail we’re talking about. This should always be top-notch… Understand what goes into this drink.”
The comment section exploded, with supporters defending the vodka-and-raspberry lemonade’s essence, while others furiously chimed in with Commodari, arguing that the taste has indeed suffered.
Mixologists at the event dismissed the backlash, claiming that the tap cocktails are just as good as the freshly mixed ones. However, one expert acknowledged that those sensitive to flavor have a valid concern, though with some considerations.
“Batched cocktails — while they’re efficient for bar operations — can lose a bit of their quality,” remarked Miguel Munoz, the beverage director at Renwick Hospitality Group, which offers its own Honey Deuces during the Open.
He explained, “For the Honey Deuce, when you batch it, the alcohol can preserve the juice initially, but after a few days, you really do taste that it’s not as fresh as when you prepare it on the spot.”
Munoz also mentioned that batched Honey Deuces might lose their flavor faster than those with stronger profiles.
Still, if the drinks are being consumed rapidly, like they were last year when enthusiasts faced half-hour lines, fans shouldn’t detect much of a difference between tap options and drinks made to go.
Interestingly, not every bar at the US Open is rotating toward pre-mixed cocktails this season, and the option of serving drinks on tap isn’t brand new.
Grey Goose didn’t clarify if there would be more taps available for the 2026 tournament after last year’s drink craze. However, they defended the batched option, insisting it’s still a solid choice.
“As a bartender, I can assure you that serving a cocktail on draft doesn’t compromise quality,” said Nick Mautone, the creator of the Grey Goose Honey Deuce.
“Many top bars worldwide feature draft cocktails,” he pointed out. “The recipe for the Grey Goose Honey Deuce hasn’t changed, and using draft service isn’t new for the US Open. Some Honey Deuce Express locations have been utilizing it for years to efficiently serve fans at this major sporting event.”
“Every batch is subject to quality control to guarantee that the cocktail retains the same flavor, balance, and consistency that guests expect,” he continued.
“Whether drawn from a tap or crafted by a bartender, patrons are enjoying the classic Grey Goose Honey Deuce, served over ice and adorned with its signature honeydew melon garnish.”
