Pink Lemon Drop Martini

Tasting Notes

The Pink Lemon Drop Martini balances tart lemon with light sweetness and a touch of cherry. Vodka provides a clean base, while triple sec adds a mild orange note. Fresh lemon juice delivers sharp acidity, softened by simple syrup. A dash of grenadine gives the drink its rosy color and a subtle fruitiness that complements the citrus. The sugared rim adds texture and contrast, making the first sip bright and well-rounded. Each element works together to create a crisp, fruit-forward drink that finishes clean, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy citrus-based cocktails.

Equipment and Glassware

To prepare this Pink Lemon Drop Martini, you’ll need a cocktail shaker for proper mixing and chilling. A jigger helps measure each ingredient accurately. A fine mesh or Hawthorne strainer ensures a clean pour without ice shards. Use a shallow dish to rim the glass with sugar, and a paring knife or peeler for prepping a lemon twist garnish. Serve the cocktail in a chilled coupe or martini glass to maintain temperature and presentation. A citrus juicer is helpful for extracting fresh lemon juice. No blender or muddler is required, making this a straightforward shaken cocktail.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka
• 0.5 oz triple sec
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 0.5 oz simple syrup
• Dash of grenadine
• Sugar, for rimming
• Lemon twist or edible flower, for garnish

Instructions

• Place a martini glass in the freezer for about 10 minutes to chill.
• Pour sugar onto a small plate. Run a lemon wedge around the rim of the glass, then dip it into the sugar to coat. Set aside.
• In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, triple sec, lemon juice, simple syrup, and a dash of grenadine.
• Add ice and shake for 15–20 seconds until thoroughly chilled.
• Strain into the prepared glass.
• Garnish with a lemon twist or a small edible flower.

Pro Tips

• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for better balance
• Chill your glass before pouring to help maintain temperature
• Shake hard to mix and chill the ingredients evenly
• Double strain for a smoother presentation
• Use superfine sugar for easier rimming
• Adjust grenadine based on desired color and sweetness
• Try a citrus-flavored vodka for extra brightness
• Avoid too much syrup it can overpower the lemon
• Taste before serving and adjust ingredients if needed
• Garnish just before serving to keep it looking fresh

When to Serve

The Pink Lemon Drop Martini is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, bridal showers, and any occasion where a bright, fruit-based cocktail fits the mood. It’s a great choice for happy hour, evening drinks, or as a pre-dinner cocktail. Because it’s easy to make in single servings and visually appealing, it also works well at small parties or girls’ night events. The sweet-and-tart flavor profile makes it approachable even for those less familiar with strong spirits. Serve chilled in a stemmed glass for a clean, crisp experience.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Vodka:

• Tito’s Handmade Vodka
• Absolut
• Ketel One
• Grey Goose
• Smirnoff No. 21

Triple Sec:

• Hiram Walker Triple Sec
• Cointreau
• DeKuyper Triple Sec
• Bols Triple Sec
• Combier Liqueur d’Orange

Similar Cocktails

If you enjoy Pink Lemon Drop Martini, here are five similar cocktails to try:

• Grapefruit Lemon Drop Martini
• Pink Dragon Fruit Martini
• Blood Orange Lemon Drop Martini
• Violet Lemon Drop Martini
• Strawberry Lemon Drop Cocktail