Cocktails with Citron vodka
Citron vodka is vodka infused or blended with lemon peel and citrus essence, giving a neutral spirit a bright lemon character.
ABV35–40%
Substitutes for Citron vodka
Most lemon vodkas carry almost no sugar, so only the zest aroma is missing. Add a few strips of lemon zest to the shaker or mixing glass. It adds aroma but no acidity.
Homemade citron vodka
Steep strips of zest without the white pith in vodka for two days or so, tasting daily.
The same peel, sweetened and usually 25–30%. Use half the measure, make up the rest with plain vodka. If the drink has syrup, it will need less.
Storage
The lemon character comes from citrus oil, and citrus oil oxidizes. Over a year, an opened bottle drifts from bright lemon toward something duller and faintly resinous. Cold storage does not stop it, so buy the size the bar will use.
