Paul Kushner
Consider a wonderful blast of taste that is equally tart, sweet, and tangy. There you have it, the Lemon Drop Shot. As a bartender, I’ve seen its magic light up faces and spark conversations. It’s a mix of simplicity and sophistication, blending vodka, lemon juice, and a touch of sweetness to perfection. Whether you’re kicking off a night out or looking for a quick refresh, this shot is your go-to choice.
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Tasting Notes
The Lemon Drop Shot offers a harmonious balance of flavors. You’ll first notice the sharp, refreshing tang of lemon, followed by the smooth, clean taste of vodka. A hint of sweetness rounds it all off, making each sip an invigorating experience. It’s like capturing the essence of a bright, sunny day in a glass – perfect for those who appreciate a drink with a lively kick.
Equipment and Glassware
To make a Lemon Drop Shot, you’ll need a few basic tools:
- A shaker: to mix your ingredients well.
- A strainer: to ensure your shot is smooth.
- Shot glasses: the Lemon Drop is traditionally served in a standard shot glass for that quick, enjoyable gulp.
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ oz citron vodka
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
- Granulated sugar rim (optional)
- Lemon wedge garnish
Instructions
- Rim the shot glass with sugar by rubbing a lemon wedge around the rim and then dipping it into sugar.
- In a cocktail shaker, add ice, citrus vodka, and fresh lemon juice.
- Shake the cocktail shaker for about 15 seconds to mix all the ingredients.
- Strain the mixture into the rimmed shot glass.
- Garnish the shot with a sugared lemon wedge.
Pro Tips
- Always use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness with more or less simple syrup according to your taste.
- Chill your shot glasses in advance for an extra refreshing shot.
When to Serve
The Lemon Drop Shot is versatile. Serve it as a starter to get your party going or as a lively interlude to keep the energy up. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, celebrations, or anytime you need a quick pick-me-up that’s sure to please a crowd.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
For the Lemon Drop Shot, a smooth, high-quality vodka is key. Brands like Absolut, Grey Goose, or Ketel One are excellent choices. They offer the clean taste and premium quality that elevate this simple shot to something special.
Similar Cocktails
If you love the Lemon Drop Shot, you might also enjoy these similar cocktails:
- Cosmopolitan: A classy mix of vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice.
- Kamikaze: Combines vodka, triple sec, and lime juice for a tart kick.
- Margarita: A tequila-based classic with lime juice and triple sec.
- Sidecar: A sophisticated blend of cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice.
- Whiskey Sour: For a different twist, this mixes whiskey with lemon juice and sugar.
History
The Lemon Drop Shot has its roots in the 1970s in a San Francisco bar. It was inspired by the classic lemon-flavored candy, aiming to capture its sweet and sour taste in a drinkable form. Over the years, it’s evolved into a beloved party favorite, known for its simplicity and vibrant flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ oz citron vodka
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
- Granulated sugar rim optional
- Lemon wedge garnish
Instructions
- Rim the shot glass with sugar by rubbing a lemon wedge around the rim and then dipping it into sugar.
- In a cocktail shaker, add ice, citrus vodka, and fresh lemon juice.
- Shake the cocktail shaker for about 15 seconds to mix all the ingredients.
- Strain the mixture into the rimmed shot glass.
- Garnish the shot with a sugared lemon wedge.
