Ingredients:

  • 2 Tablespoons (30g) Granulated Sugar (fine grain is best)
  • 1 Teaspoon (5ml) Fresh Lemon Zest (from 1 small lemon)
  • 1 Lemon Wedge (for wetting the rim)
  • 4 fl oz (120 ml) Premium Vodka (Chilled, if possible)
  • 2 fl oz (60 ml) Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice (Strained, essential for flavour)
  • 1 fl oz (30 ml) Simple Syrup (1:1 ratio—equal parts sugar and water)
  • 1 cup Ice Cubes (High-quality, hard ice)
  • 4 Small Lemon Wedges or Wheels (Garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Sugar Rim: On a shallow dish, combine the granulated sugar and lemon zest. Rub the ingredients together vigorously with your fingers—this releases the essential oils for extra aroma and flavor.
  2. Rim the Glasses: Take a lemon wedge and run it around the outside edge of each shot glass rim. Gently dip the moistened rim into the zesty sugar mixture, rotating slowly to coat evenly. Set the glasses aside (and chill, if desired).
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: Pour the chilled vodka, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and simple syrup into the cocktail shaker.
  4. Add Ice and Shake Vigorously: Fill the shaker three-quarters full with quality ice cubes. Secure the lid tightly and shake hard for 15 to 20 seconds until the exterior of the shaker becomes deeply frosted. This is critical for achieving the necessary chill and dilution.
  5. Strain and Pour: Strain the mixture immediately and evenly into the four prepared, sugar-rimmed shot glasses, ensuring no ice shards fall in.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish each Lemon Drop Shot with a small lemon wedge or wheel resting on the rim or tucked slightly inside. Serve immediately while ice-cold.