US Open's Honey Deuce cocktail success and other brands' pursuit
The US Open's annual signature cocktail, the Honey Deuce, has become an iconic part of the summer's end in New York. Other beverage brands are now aiming to replicate its success by leveraging the tournament's evolving fan experience.
The US Open tennis tournament in New York, marking the end of summer, has become known for its signature cocktail: the Honey Deuce. Created by Grey Goose, this drink features lemonade, raspberry liqueur, and vodka, garnished with three balls of honeydew melon resembling tennis balls.
First introduced in 2007, the Honey Deuce has solidified its status as a fan favorite. In 2023, over 738,000 were sold, highlighting its popularity. The drink's success is attributed to its blend of quality ingredients, exclusivity—available only during the tournament—and its role in enhancing the overall fan experience.
Originally developed by mixologist Nick Mautone, the cocktail benefited from offering fans something unique and shareable on social media, even as the social media era was just beginning. Mautone stated that his inspiration came from a family summer dessert recipe.
Today, as the US Open attracts attendees for both the tennis and a broader event experience, beverage brands are competing to create their own recognizable drinks. IHG Hotels and Resorts offers the Watermelon Slice, served in a tennis-ball-themed glass for fans to take home. Moët & Chandon presents the Moët Serve, a champagne cocktail in a distinctive can, and Dobel Tequila offers its Ace Paloma.