Recipes

Lemon Drop Martini

A modern classic born in the 1970s, the Lemon Drop Martini is a sweet and tart vodka sour that's as fun as it is delicious. It perfectly balances the clean profile of vodka with bright lemon and orange liqueur, all enhanced by its signature sugar-crusted rim.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Citrus Vodka
  • ¾ oz Cointreau or Triple Sec
  • 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
  • ¾ oz Simple Syrup
  • Garnish: Sugar Rim & Lemon Twist

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Glass: Take a lemon wedge and moisten the rim of a chilled coupe or martini glass. Dip the rim in superfine sugar to create a delicate crust.
  2. Combine and Shake: Add the citrus vodka, Cointreau, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
  3. Shake Vigorously: Seal the shaker and shake very hard for about 15 seconds until the outside is thoroughly chilled.
  4. Strain and Serve: Double-strain the mixture into your prepared, sugar-rimmed glass. Garnish with a fresh lemon twist.

Pro Tips for Perfection

Citrus Vodka is Key: While you can use regular vodka, using a citrus-flavored vodka (like Ketel One Citroen or Absolut Citron) adds an extra layer of bright, zesty flavor that is essential for a top-tier Lemon Drop.

Balance Your Sweet and Sour: The perfect Lemon Drop is a delicate balance. Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice. After shaking, you can taste the mix and adjust if needed—add more simple syrup if it's too tart, or a little more lemon juice if it's too sweet.

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