Ahhh, the perfect lemon drop martini. Something that, when done right, is drinkable to the point of no return. And when done wrong, is seriously just gross.

A lemon drop should be very light in color, ice cold and with just a kiss of sweetness. It should not be so sweet that it feels like drinking lemonade, and it should not be anything less than COLD. Do not give me a room temperature lemon drop. And please, please, please, use fresh squeezed lemon juice. I know the bottle of lemon juice they sell at the store is convenient, but I promise it’s so much better when you squeeze it fresh. Also, if you’re giving me a lemon drop martini without the fancy sugared rim, I’m giving it back. Kidding… mostly. 🍋

for the sugar rim (this will be good for a few drinks!)

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • zest of one lemon

for the martini (serves one)

  • 2 oz vodka
  • 1/2 oz triple sec (I like Cointreau)
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup (use a bit more if you like a sweeter drink!)
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice

If you want to go the extra mile, start by chilling your martini glasses. I wasn’t kidding when I said ice cold.

Mix together your sugar and lemon zest. Make sure it’s in a container or dish that’s big enough to fit the entire mouth of your glass.

Run a lemon wedge around the rim of the glass, and dip the top of the glass into your lemon sugar mixture. Set aside.

Add your martini ingredients into your cocktails shaker with a generous handful of ice.

S H A K E . Shake. And shake some more. When you feel like your hands could freeze and your arms may fall off, shake for 10 more seconds.

Pour and enjoy!!! Cheers to the weekend 🍸