Ingredients
Method
- Take a lemon wedge and run it around the entire edge of a chilled martini glass. This creates a sticky surface that will hold the sugar in place.
- Dip the wet rim into a small plate of granulated sugar. Rotate the glass slowly to get an even coating, then tap the side of the glass gently to remove any loose grains.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, orange liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup. Once your liquids are in the shaker, fill it about halfway with ice. You want enough ice to chill the drink thoroughly without diluting it too much before you have a chance to pour.
- Secure the lid on your shaker and give it a vigorous shake for about 15 to 20 seconds. You are looking for more than just a quick mix; you want the liquid to become ice-cold.
- Remove the small cap from the shaker and strain the liquid into your sugar-rimmed glass. You should use a fine-mesh strainer if your shaker doesn’t have a built-in one to catch any tiny bits of lemon pulp or ice shards. A clean, clear pour is a sign of a well-made martini.
Notes
The biggest mistake is over-diluting the drink. If you shake for too long or use ice that is already melting, the water will drown out the lemon and vodka. Use fresh, solid ice cubes straight from the freezer for the best results. You want the ice to chill the liquid, not become part of it.