The origin of the Lemon Drop Martini can be traced back to the 1970s, where it emerged as a contemporary twist on the classic Martini. Its inception is often credited to Henry Africa’s, a legendary San Francisco bar, where it gained popularity as a refreshing alternative to traditional gin-based Martinis.
Over the years, the Lemon Drop Martini has evolved into a beloved cocktail, celebrated for its bright citrus notes and delightful balance of sweet and sour.
This modern classic’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the essence of summer in a glass, making it a go-to choice for those seeking a crisp and invigorating cocktail.
Lemon Drop Martini Ingredients
- Vodka (60 ml / 2 ounces): The neutral canvas of vodka serves as the base spirit, allowing the citrus elements to shine.
- Triple Sec or Orange Liqueur (15 ml / 0.5 ounce): Adding a touch of orange liqueur enhances the cocktail’s complexity.
- Fresh Lemon Juice (30 ml / 1 ounce): The star of the show, fresh lemon juice brings the necessary tartness and bright citrus flavor to the Lemon Drop Martini.
- Simple Syrup (15 ml / 0.5 ounce): A simple syrup solution (equal parts sugar and water) acts as the sweetener.
- Superfine Sugar (for rimming): The glass rim coated with superfine sugar not only adds a sweet touch but also provides a textural contrast.
- Lemon Twist (for Garnish): A final flourish of a lemon twist not only enhances the visual appeal but also releases aromatic citrus oils.
Lemon Drop Martini Cocktail Recipe
Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Ingredients
Before you begin, ensure you have the necessary tools: a cocktail shaker, a jigger for precise measurements, a fine strainer, and a coupe glass or martini glass. Also, have your vodka, triple sec, fresh lemons, simple syrup, superfine sugar, and a lemon for garnish ready.
Step 2: Prepare the Glass
- If you desire a sugar-rimmed glass, dampen the rim of your coupe or Martini glass with a lemon wedge. Dip the rim into superfine sugar, coating it evenly. Set the glass aside to allow the sugar to adhere.
Step 3: Measure and Add Vodka
- In the shaker, measure 60 ml (2 ounces) of your chosen vodka. Pour the vodka into the shaker, establishing the cocktail’s smooth base.
Step 4: Incorporate Triple Sec
- Measure 15 ml (0.5 ounce) of triple sec or orange liqueur and add it to the shaker. The hint of orange complements the lemon, adding a layer of complexity to the cocktail.
Step 5: Squeeze Fresh Lemon Juice
- Measure 30 ml (1 ounce) of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Ensure the lemons are ripe for the best citrus flavor. Add the lemon juice to the shaker.
Step 6: Add Simple Syrup
- Measure 15 ml (0.5 ounce) of simple syrup and add it to the mix. The simple syrup acts as the sweetening agent, harmonizing the tartness of the lemon.
Step 7: Shake with Ice
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake the mixture vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. The shaking process not only chills the ingredients but also ensures proper dilution for a balanced cocktail.
Step 8: Fine Strain into the Glass
- Using a fine strainer, pour the shaken mixture into the prepared glass, ensuring that any ice shards or pulp are filtered out. The sugar-rimmed glass adds a sweet touch with each sip.
Step 9: Garnish with a Lemon Twist
- Express the oils from a lemon twist by giving it a quick twist over the cocktail. Drop the twist into the drink or place it delicately on the rim for a visually appealing garnish.
Check out some different types of martinis if that’s your drinky of choice.
Lift your glass to the this great cocktail recipe, a beacon of sunshine in the world of vodka cocktails!
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