The Lemon Drop martini is a delightful and refreshing cocktail that has gained popularity over the years. Its name, “Lemon Drop,” is derived from the lemon drop candies that share a similar sweet and sour flavor profile. But why exactly is this cocktail associated with these candies? Let's delve into the origins and taste of this beloved cocktail.
The creation of the Lemon Drop martini is credited to a man named Norman Jay Hobday, who was the owner of a popular bar called Henry Africa's. It is believed that Norman came up with the idea for this cocktail sometime during the 1970s. As a sommelier and brewer, Norman had a keen understanding of flavors and a knack for creating unique and delicious drinks.
Norman's original version of the Lemon Drop martini was served in a cocktail glass, much like the traditional martini. This glassware choice not only added elegance to the presentation but also allowed the flavors to be concentrated and enjoyed in a more sophisticated manner.
The decision to name this cocktail after the lemon drop candies was likely influenced by the similar taste profiles. Lemon drop candies are small, sugar-coated treats that burst with a sweet and tangy lemon flavor when bitten into. They provide a delightful combination of sweetness and a slight acidity, which is mirrored in the Lemon Drop martini.
The cocktail itself consists of vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup, which is a sweetener made by dissolving sugar in water. The combination of the tartness from the lemon juice and the sweetness from the simple syrup creates a harmonious balance of flavors. This balance is reminiscent of the sweet and sour taste found in lemon drop candies.
Additionally, the Lemon Drop martini often features a sugared rim on the glass. This further adds to the connection with the lemon drop candies, as the sugar-coated rim mimics the sugary exterior of the candies. The sugared rim also provides a pleasant contrast in texture, enhancing the overall sensory experience of the cocktail.
The Lemon Drop martini is named after the lemon drop candies due to their shared sweet and sour flavor profile. The cocktail's creator, Norman Jay Hobday, drew inspiration from the taste of these candies and crafted a delightful and refreshing drink that captures their essence. The association with lemon drop candies adds a whimsical touch to the cocktail, evoking nostalgia and imbuing it with a sense of fun. So, the next time you sip on a Lemon Drop martini, take a moment to appreciate the connection to those tangy lemon drop candies and enjoy the delightful flavors that this cocktail has to offer.