Name: Lemon Drop Martini Mocktail
Prep time: 4 min
Ingredients: 1 1/4 oz lemon juice; 2 1/2 oz club soda (or sparkling water, chilled); 3/4 oz simple syrup; Lemon twist or slice (optional, for garnish)

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The Lemon Drop Martini Mocktail offers the same crisp, citrusy refreshment of the classic cocktail without the alcohol. With fresh lemon juice, a touch of sweetness from simple syrup, and a sparkling finish from club soda, it’s light, zesty, and beautifully balanced. This mocktail is perfect for those who want a sophisticated, bar-worthy drink that’s refreshing yet alcohol-free. Its bright flavor profile makes it ideal for summer afternoons, brunches, or as a palate cleanser at parties. Served in a chilled martini glass with a lemon garnish, it feels festive and classy while keeping things light and refreshing.

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Tasting Notes

The Lemon Drop Martini Mocktail is crisp, citrusy, and refreshing without being overly sweet. Fresh lemon juice delivers a bright, tangy bite, balanced by the smooth sweetness of simple syrup. Club soda or sparkling water adds light fizz, making each sip lively and thirst-quenching. Though non-alcoholic, it maintains the sophistication of a cocktail, presented in a chilled martini glass with optional lemon garnish. The garnish adds subtle aroma while enhancing the overall look. This drink is smooth, well-balanced, and perfect for those who want the experience of a martini with a lighter, more refreshing profile.

Equipment and Glassware

To make the Lemon Drop Martini Mocktail, you’ll need a cocktail shaker for combining and chilling the lemon juice and syrup. A jigger ensures accurate measurement, keeping the flavors balanced. A fine mesh strainer helps achieve a smooth pour without unwanted ice chips. A citrus juicer or handheld reamer makes it easy to extract fresh lemon juice efficiently. A bar spoon is useful for gently topping with soda. Serve the mocktail in a chilled martini or coupe glass, which gives it a polished presentation and helps maintain temperature. A paring knife is handy for preparing a lemon twist garnish.

Ingredients

1 1/4 oz lemon juice
2 1/2 oz club soda (or sparkling water), chilled
3/4 oz simple syrup
Lemon twist or slice (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Fill a martini glass with ice water and set aside while preparing the drink.
In a cocktail shaker, add lemon juice and simple syrup.
Fill the shaker with ice, covering the liquid. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
Discard the ice water from the martini glass and dry it if needed.
Strain the lemon mixture into the chilled martini glass, leaving the ice behind.
Gently pour in chilled club soda or sparkling water.
Add a lemon twist or small lemon slice to the rim for a fresh aromatic touch.
Serve immediately, enjoy while cold and refreshing.

Pro Tips

Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
Chill your glass before serving for a crisper presentation.
Shake vigorously to properly chill and dilute the base.
Pour club soda slowly to preserve carbonation.
Adjust syrup amount for your preferred sweetness.
Add flavored sparkling water for a creative variation.
Garnish just before serving to keep the aroma fresh.

When to Serve

The Lemon Drop Martini Mocktail is ideal for brunches, baby showers, and dinner parties where a non-alcoholic option is needed. Its crisp, citrus-forward profile makes it great for summer afternoons, outdoor gatherings, and casual celebrations. It can also be served as a pre-dinner refresher or palate cleanser thanks to its bright acidity and light body. Because of its elegant presentation in a martini glass, it fits seamlessly alongside alcoholic cocktails, making everyone feel included. Its balance of tart and sweet ensures wide appeal, making it a versatile mocktail for both casual and more polished occasions.

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