Aperol Lemon Drop

The Aperol Lemon Drop is a citrusy twist on a classic, bringing together the bright snap of lemon with the bittersweet edge of Aperol. It’s a little tart, a little sweet, and totally refreshing. The Aperol adds color and a light herbal bite that balances the lemon juice and simple syrup just right. Served chilled in a sugar-rimmed glass, this cocktail is great when you want something crisp with a little attitude. Whether you’re kicking off happy hour or just in the mood for something different, this drink keeps things light, sharp, and easy to enjoy.

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Tasting Notes

The Aperol Lemon Drop is bright, citrusy, and smooth with a subtle bitter edge. Vodka gives it a clean base, while Aperol brings soft orange flavor and just enough bitterness to keep it balanced. Lemon juice adds sharpness and keeps the drink crisp, while orange juice softens it slightly with a touch of sweetness. A couple dashes of orange bitters tie everything together. The orange peel garnish adds aroma right at the top of each sip. It’s a refreshing cocktail that feels light and clean, with a nice mix of sweet, tart, and just a hint of bitter.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a shaker to chill and blend the ingredients well. A jigger makes measuring easy and keeps the balance right, especially with the smaller amounts. A strainer helps you get a clean pour into the glass. Use a coupe or martini glass for serving—something that shows off the color and keeps the look sharp. A peeler or citrus knife is helpful for slicing the orange peel garnish. If you want to add a sugared rim, use a small plate and fresh lemon juice to prep the glass before shaking the drink.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz vodka
• 1 oz Aperol
• 1 oz lemon juice
• 0.5 oz orange juice
• 2 dashes orange bitters
• Garnish: lemon wheel

Instructions

• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Add vodka, Aperol, lemon juice, orange juice, and orange bitters.
• Shake well for about 15 seconds for until chilled.
• Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
• Garnish with a lemon wheel.

Pro Tips

• Use fresh citrus juices for a cleaner, more vibrant flavor store-bought versions can dull the drink.
• Shake hard to chill everything evenly and create a smoother texture.
• Chill your glass ahead of time for a better finish.
• When using orange bitters, go light two dashes are enough to lift the citrus without overpowering.
• For a cleaner peel, use a channel knife or peeler and avoid too much pith.
• A sugared rim is optional but works well if you want to soften the tartness of the lemon.
• Serve immediately for the best flavor and look.

When to Serve

This is a great drink for early evening, happy hour, or brunch when you want something citrus-forward but a little different. It’s also perfect for warm-weather events, rooftop gatherings, or dinner parties where you want a cocktail that’s refreshing but not overly sweet. The Aperol gives it just enough of a twist to stand out from the usual lemon drop. It works well as a starter cocktail or something light to sip before a meal. Its clean flavor and simple look make it easy to enjoy any time of year.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• For vodka, go with something smooth and neutral like Tito’s, Absolut, or Ketel One—they let the citrus shine without getting in the way.
• Aperol is the only option here for the flavor and balance this drink needs.
• Use freshly squeezed lemon and orange juice if possible avoid bottled versions for a better finish.
• For bitters, try Regans’ Orange Bitters No. 6 or Angostura Orange.
• Use a fresh orange with firm skin for a good-looking peel garnish.
• If rimming the glass, fine sugar works best it clings easily and melts slightly into the citrus.

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• Blue Peep Cocktail
• Cherry Long Island Iced Tea
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