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.

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!

How to rim a Lemon Drop glass with sugar the easy way!

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)
1/2 ounce Triple Sec
1 ounce lemon juice (juice of one small lemon)
2 ounces seltzer water

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: