Lemon Drop Martini
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Lemon Drop Martini
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.7 / 5
The Lemon Drop Martini is a refreshingly tart and slightly sweet cocktail that has become a modern classic. This zesty concoction typically blends the citrus punch of fresh lemon juice and lemon-flavored vodka with the sweet, orange notes of Triple Sec, creating a well-balanced mixture. Often served in a sugar-rimmed cocktail glass to complement the sour profile with a touch of sweetness, the Lemon Drop Martini delivers a bright and zingy taste that is perfect for sipping before dinner or as a lively treat at a social gathering. Its playful combination of flavors and elegant presentation have solidified its status as a favorite among citrus cocktail enthusiasts.
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Microbadges

IBA Official Drink
Cocktail Of The Day
Base ingredient
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Lemon vodka
Calories
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187 calories
Garnish
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Lemon
Alcohol content
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30% | 1.8 units *

Tags

Lemon vodka ingredient icon
Lemon vodka cocktails
Triple Sec ingredient icon
Top ten Triple Sec cocktails
Lemon vodka ingredient icon
Top ten Lemon vodka cocktails

Cocktail glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Triple Sec cocktail ingredient icon for the Lemon Drop Martini cocktail
Triple Sec
Lemon Juice cocktail ingredient icon for the Lemon Drop Martini cocktail
Lemon Juice
Lemon vodka cocktail ingredient icon for the Lemon Drop Martini cocktail
Lemon vodka
Sugar cocktail ingredient icon for the Lemon Drop Martini cocktail
Sugar
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

The Lemon Drop Martini ingeniously combines the sharp zestiness of lemon—both from fresh juice and flavored vodka—with the sweet complexity of Triple Sec, striking a delightful balance between tart and sweet. The sugared rim not only adds visual charm but also enhances each sip with a gentle sweetness that elegantly tempers the cocktail's acidic edge, making it a sophisticated yet playful choice for those who appreciate a touch of citrus tang in their glass.

Method
How to make a Lemon Drop Martini

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Moisten the rim of a chilled cocktail glass and roll in sugar
Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice
Shake well for 10-15 seconds or until the outside of the shaker becomes frosted
Strain into the rimmed glass
Garnish with a twist of lemon peel and serve

Power tips
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Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice can have a muted taste and lack the bright, fresh acidity that defines a great Lemon Drop Martini.
Zest a bit of lemon peel directly into the shaker before shaking. This releases essential oils from the peel that enhance the lemony aroma and flavor of the cocktail.
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Lemon Drop Martini masterclass

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Perfecting the Lemon Drop Cocktail

Discover the zesty world of the Lemon Drop Cocktail in our deep dive article! Uncover its intriguing...

Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Rim  ·  Shake  ·  Strain  ·  Garnish  ·  Twist  · 

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FAQ's

Preparation techniques icon

What is the best way to serve a Lemon Drop Martini?

The best way to serve a Lemon Drop Martini is chilled in a cocktail glass. Optionally, you can rim the glass with sugar to add a sweet touch complementing the tartness of the lemon. The cocktail should be shaken with ice before straining into the glass to ensure it's cold.

Customization ideas icon

How can I adjust the sweetness of a Lemon Drop Martini?

To adjust the sweetness of a Lemon Drop Martini, you can vary the amount of sugar or Triple Sec in the recipe. If you prefer it sweeter, consider adding a little more sugar or a dash of simple syrup. For a less sweet variant, reduce the amount of Triple Sec slightly or increase the lemon juice to enhance the tartness.

Ingredient specifics icon

What type of lemon vodka is best for a Lemon Drop Martini?

For a Lemon Drop Martini, it's best to use a high-quality lemon-flavored vodka to get the cleanest and most vibrant lemon flavor. Brands that specialize in flavored vodka or have a reputation for purity and smoothness are ideal. Avoid very cheap options as they can introduce undesirable flavors.

Ingredient substitutions icon

Can I make a Lemon Drop Martini without lemon vodka?

Yes, you can make a Lemon Drop Martini without lemon vodka by substituting plain vodka. To compensate for the absence of the lemon flavor from the vodka, increase the amount of fresh lemon juice or add a bit of lemon zest to the mixture before shaking it with ice. This will enhance the lemon character of the cocktail.

Origins history icon

What is the origin of the Lemon Drop Martini?

The Lemon Drop Martini is believed to have originated in the 1970s at Henry Africa's bar in San Francisco. It was created by the bartender, Norman Jay Hobday, as a variation of the vodka martini but with a sweeter, more palatable flavor profile. The drink quickly gained popularity for its delightful balance of sweet and sour tastes.

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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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