This Sparkling version of a classic Lemon Drop Cocktail is easy to make and always a crowd pleaser-vodka, triple sec, lemon and seltzer combine for a refreshing drink that's always a hit.

A Lemon drop Martini garnished with a twist of lemon peel

Most winter cocktails seem cream-based (White Russians) or whiskey-based (Hot Toddies) and I've been craving something lighter. When a friend suggested a Lemon Drop Martini I knew I'd found my answer-and I've lightened it up a bit more for parties by creating a sparkling version!

A Lemon drop Martini having the rim coated with lemon juice from a lemon

There are only four ingredients in this cocktail and it's very easy to make. Before you mix it up though go ahead and sugar the rim of the glass. I find the easiest way to do that is to make a small slice in half a lemon and run it around the edge of the glass before dipping it in sugar. (You can see I had already used a peeler to peel the skin of the lemon for the garnish-do that first!)

Sparkling Lemon Drop Ingredients

1.5 ounces vodka (I use Sky or Grey Goose)
½ ounce Triple Sec
1 ounce lemon juice (juice of one small lemon)
2 ounces seltzer water

A close up of a Lemon drop Martini garnished with a twist of lemon peel

Unlike a regular martini where I would combine the ingredients in a shaker with ice, because the seltzer is already cold I don't find the need to do that.

Simply add the first three ingredients to your glass then pour the seltzer over it-the seltzer mixes everything together as you add it. Garnish with lemon rind if you like and serve immediately!

What are your favorite cocktails? Here are a few others I like: