Lemon Drop

The Lemon Drop offers a perfect blend of refreshment and citrusy goodness. This timeless drink is a favorite at bars and restaurants globally, known for its simplicity and versatility. To craft a Lemon Drop, combine vodka, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and sugar in a shaker with ice. After a vigorous shake, strain the mixture into a glass rimmed with sugar, adding a touch of elegance to every sip. 

Some variations incorporate triple sec or alternative liqueurs, while others opt for the smooth sweetness of simple syrup. The result is a harmonious balance of sweet and sour, delivering a deeply satisfying and invigorating taste experience. Whether you savor the sugary rim or prefer a more tangy profile, the Lemon Drop offers a wide array of delectable options to suit your palate.

History

The Lemon Drop cocktail is a classic cocktail that has been around for decades. Its origins are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have been first created in San Francisco in the 1970s. The cocktail was popularized by Norman Jay Hobday, who owned a bar called Henry Africa’s in the city’s Russian Hill neighborhood. Hobday is credited with inventing the Lemon Drop martini, which quickly became a favorite among locals.

The Lemon Drop cocktail is often associated with the Fern Bar, a type of bar that became popular in the 1970s. Fern Bars were known for their upscale decor, fancy cocktails, and focus on socializing. The Lemon Drop cocktail was a perfect fit for this type of bar, as it is a sweet and refreshing drink that is perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening.

Despite its association with the Fern Bar, the Lemon Drop is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. It is a simple cocktail that is easy to make and can be enjoyed by anyone. The Lemon Drop cocktail is also a popular drink in New Orleans, where it is often served as a classic cocktail.

How to Make It

Choosing Your Vodka 

The best vodka to use in a Lemon Drop Cocktail is a high-quality, neutral vodka. Some popular brands include Grey Goose, Belvedere, and Ketel One. It is important to use a good quality vodka as it is the main ingredient in the cocktail.

Variations

There are many variations of the classic Lemon Drop Cocktail, each with its unique twist. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Meyer Lemon Drop

The Meyer Lemon Drop is a refreshing twist on the classic Lemon Drop. Made with freshly squeezed Meyer lemon juice, vodka, and simple syrup, this cocktail has a sweet and sour taste. The sugared rim adds an extra touch of sweetness to balance the tartness of the lemon. To make it, combine 2 oz. of vodka, 1 oz. of freshly squeezed Meyer lemon juice, and ¾ oz. of simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a sugared rim cocktail glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Limoncello Lemon Drop

The Limoncello Lemon Drop is a sweet and tangy variation of the classic Lemon Drop Cocktail. To make it, combine 1 ½ oz. of vodka, 1 oz. of Limoncello, 1 oz. of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and ½ oz. of simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a sugared rim cocktail glass. Garnish with a strip of lemon peel.

Berry Lemon Drop

The Berry Lemon Drop is a fruity version of the classic Lemon Drop Cocktail. To make it, muddle a few berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, in the bottom of a cocktail shaker. Add 1 ½ oz. of vodka, 1 oz. of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and ½ oz. of simple syrup. Shake well and strain into a sugared rim cocktail glass. Garnish with a lemon twist and a few berries.

Cointreau Lemon Drop

The Cointreau Lemon Drop is a sophisticated version of the classic Lemon Drop Cocktail. To make it, combine 1 ½ oz. of vodka, 1 oz. of Cointreau, and ¾ oz. of freshly squeezed lemon juice in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a sugared rim cocktail glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Lemon Drop Shot

The Lemon Drop Shot is a fun and easy variation of the classic Lemon Drop Cocktail. To make it, combine 1 oz. of vodka, ½ oz. of triple sec, and ½ oz. of freshly squeezed lemon juice in a shot glass. Dip a lemon wedge into granulated sugar and serve alongside the shot.