Step 1: Prepare your martini glass by chilling it in the freezer for at least 10–15 minutes or fill it with ice water to keep it cold while you mix your drink. A chilled glass enhances the overall drinking experience and keeps your martini crisp.
Step 2: Rim the edge of the martini glass with sugar. To do this, rub a fresh lemon wedge around the rim of the glass, then dip the rim into a plate of granulated sugar. Gently rotate the glass to coat the rim evenly. This adds both visual appeal and a touch of sweetness to each sip.
Step 3: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice to the halfway point. Add the vanilla vodka, Triple Sec (or Cointreau), fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker. The freshness of the lemon juice is essential—bottled lemon juice can dull the drink’s bright flavor.
Step 4: Shake the cocktail shaker vigorously for about 15–20 seconds. This not only chills the drink but also ensures that all ingredients are fully combined and aerated, resulting in a smoother, silkier texture.
Step 5: Strain the cocktail into your prepared martini glass. Use a fine mesh strainer if you want to avoid any ice shards. Garnish with a twist of lemon or a vanilla bean pod, laid across the rim or standing upright in the drink for a touch of visual sophistication.