As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can tell you that the ratio of honey to water in a honey syrup can vary depending on the flavor profile you are looking for. It's important to taste the honey you are using before making the syrup, as different types of honey can have varying levels of sweetness and intensity.
When tasting the honey, pay attention to its overall flavor, sweetness, and any specific notes or undertones. This will help you determine the best ratio of honey to water to achieve the desired balance and taste in your syrup.
If you have a mild or lighter honey, such as clover or orange blossom, a two-to-one ratio of honey to water may be suitable. This means using twice as much honey as water. This ratio will help preserve the delicate flavors of the honey while still creating a syrup with enough sweetness.
On the other hand, if you have a stronger or more robust honey, such as buckwheat or dark forest honey, a one-to-one ratio of honey to water may be more appropriate. This equal balance of honey and water will help to mellow out the intense flavors of the honey and create a syrup that is not overly sweet.
It's important to note that these ratios are not set in stone and can be adjusted to suit your personal taste preferences. You may find that a two-to-one ratio with a mild honey is too sweet for your liking, or that a one-to-one ratio with a strong honey is not sweet enough. Experimentation is key to finding your perfect honey syrup ratio.
In my own experience, I have found that using a two-to-one ratio with a lighter honey works well for cocktails that require a touch of sweetness without overpowering the other flavors. This ratio allows the honey to shine through without being cloying.
On the other hand, when using a darker honey like buckwheat, I have found that a one-to-one ratio creates a syrup that adds depth and richness to drinks like hot toddies or mulled wine.
Ultimately, the ratio of honey to water in your syrup will depend on your personal taste preferences and the specific honey you are using. Remember to taste and adjust as you go to achieve the desired flavor balance.