Ingredients:

  • 1.5 oz Vodka (preferably citrus-flavored)
  • 1 oz Freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • .5 oz Simple syrup (adjust for sweetness as desired)
  • 2 oz Club soda (or tonic water for a twist)
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon wheel or twist, for garnish
  • Fresh mint leaves, optional for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Chill a tall glass by filling it with ice and cold water while you prepare the cocktail.
  2. In a shaker, add the vodka, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and simple syrup. Fill the shaker with ice cubes to about halfway full.
  3. Securely close the shaker lid and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well mixed and chilled.
  4. Discard the ice and water from your chilled glass. Using a cocktail strainer, pour the mixture into the glass over fresh ice cubes.
  5. Gently pour in club soda to fill up the glass while maintaining some fizz.
  6. Garnish with a lemon wheel or twist on the rim of your glass. Optionally add fresh mint leaves for an aromatic touch.