Apricot Lemon Drop Martini

The Apricot Lemon Drop Martini is a bright and flavorful cocktail that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart. Apricot brandy brings a smooth fruitiness, while fresh lemon juice adds a crisp citrus kick. A touch of simple syrup rounds out the flavors, complementing the vodka’s clean finish.

This martini is a refreshing choice for warm evenings, special gatherings, or whenever you’re in the mood for a vibrant, fruit-forward drink. Garnish with a lemon twist or an apricot slice for an elegant touch. Whether you’re a fan of citrusy cocktails or something a little sweeter, this one is a must-try!

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Tasting Notes

Bright, citrusy, and smooth, the Apricot Lemon Drop Martini is a perfect balance of sweet and tart. The apricot brandy adds a luscious fruitiness that enhances the vibrant punch of fresh lemon juice, while the vodka provides a crisp, clean base.

The simple syrup rounds out the sharp citrus notes, creating a cocktail that is both refreshing and indulgent. Garnished with a lemon twist or an apricot slice, this martini delivers a sophisticated sip with a silky texture and a lingering, slightly sweet finish.

Equipment and Glassware

To craft the perfect Apricot Lemon Drop Martini, you’ll need a cocktail shaker to blend and chill the ingredients effectively, a jigger for precise measurements, and a strainer to ensure a smooth pour. A chilled martini glass is ideal for serving, helping to maintain the cocktail’s refreshing coolness. A citrus juicer is also handy for extracting fresh lemon juice, ensuring the drink has the brightest and freshest flavor possible.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Vodka
• 1 oz Apricot Brandy
• 1 oz Lemon Juice
• 1/2 oz Simple Syrup
• Sugar, for rimming
• Lemon twist or apricot slice for garnish

Instructions

• Dip the rim of a martini glass into lemon juice and sugar until well-coated.
• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Add 2 oz of vodka, 1 oz of apricot brandy, 1 oz of fresh lemon juice, and 0.5 oz of simple syrup into the shaker.
• Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
• Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass.
• Garnish with a lemon twist or a slice of apricot.

Pro Tips

• Chill your martini glass before serving to keep the drink at its optimal temperature.
• Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for a brighter, more authentic citrus flavor.
• Shake the cocktail vigorously for at least 15 seconds to ensure proper dilution and a smooth consistency.
• Experiment with different vodka brands to find one that complements the apricot and lemon flavors best.

When to Serve

The Apricot Lemon Drop Martini is a versatile cocktail perfect for various occasions. Serve it as a pre-dinner aperitif to awaken the palate or as a signature cocktail at elegant gatherings and celebrations. Its refreshing citrus profile makes it ideal for spring and summer soirees, but its smooth, balanced sweetness also makes it a delightful choice for cozy winter nights. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual evening with friends, this martini always delivers a sophisticated and enjoyable experience.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

For the best results, choose a high-quality vodka such as Tito’s, Grey Goose, or Belvedere for a smooth, clean finish. When selecting an apricot brandy, brands like Rothman & Winter Orchard Apricot or Marie Brizard Apricot Brandy offer rich, natural fruit flavors that blend seamlessly with the cocktail. For the simple syrup, homemade is always best, but if you prefer a store-bought option, Liber & Co. Classic Gum Syrup provides a silky texture and balanced sweetness.

Similar Cocktails

• Plum Lemon Drop Cocktail
• Apricot Vodka Lemonade
• Kiwi Lemon Drop
• Strawberry Lemon Drop Cocktail
• Grapefruit Lemon Drop Martini