The Lemon Shot is a multi-spirit bar ritual combining Galliano, Absolut Citron, and 151-proof rum with a sugared lemon wedge in a theatrical preparation that includes a brief ignition of the overproof rum. The vanilla-herbal Galliano and the citrus vodka form a complex base, while the high-proof rum supplies the flammable element that makes the presentation part of the experience. Done correctly — the wedge sucked immediately after the shot — it is said to read as sweet and lemony despite its strength of roughly 23 percent ABV. As much performance as drink, it belongs to the genre of flaming novelty shots.
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Lemon Shot
Ingredientes
- Galliano 1/2 oz
- Absolut citron 1/2 oz
- Lemon wedge
- Sugar Bacardi
- 151 proof rum 1/2 oz
Instruções
Mix Galliano and Absolut Citron in a shot glass, lay lemon wedge sprinkled with sugar over glass and pour a rum over wedge and glass. light rum with a lighter and let burn for a second. Do shot quickly and suck on lemon. If it is done correctly, this will taste like a shot of sweet lemonade.
O Lemon Shot é um shot novelty multi-destilado que combina Galliano, Absolut Citron e rum de 151 proof com uma fatia de limão e açúcar em uma apresentação teatral que inclui uma breve ignição do rum. A combinação de Galliano baunilha-herbal e vodca cítrica cria uma base complexa, enquanto o rum de alta graduação fornece o elemento inflamável. É um ritual de bar tão enérgico quanto o próprio coquetel.
History & Origins
Flaming shots became a popular bartending spectacle in American bars from the 1980s onward, combining theatrical fire with strong alcoholic content for maximum impact. The Lemon Shot's combination of Galliano — the Italian herbal liqueur famous from the Harvey Wallbanger — with citrus vodka and 151-proof rum reflects the eclectic spirit-mixing of that era. The exact origin is disputed.
Tasting Notes
Aroma: Herbal vanilla from the Galliano, bright citrus from the Absolut Citron, and a raw 151-proof rum heat, with lemon juice freshness. Palate: Sweet and citrus-forward — vanilla-herbal Galliano and lemon vodka combine into a candied citrus profile, with the rum's intensity only revealed on swallowing. Finish: Hot and sweet, with a lingering citrus-herbal warmth.
Pro Tip
Perform the brief flame only for spectacle — extinguish immediately before drinking to avoid serious burns; have a chaser ready given the high overproof content.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is in a Lemon Shot?
A Lemon Shot typically consists of vodka or citrus vodka combined with fresh lemon juice and a touch of simple syrup, served as a chilled shot. Some variations add a splash of triple sec or limoncello for extra citrus intensity. The result is a bright, tart, and slightly sweet shooter.
How is a Lemon Shot served?
Lemon Shots are shaken with ice and strained into a shot glass, then served immediately while cold. A sugar rim on the shot glass is optional but popular. Some bars serve it with a lemon wedge on the side to squeeze over the shot before drinking.
How strong is a Lemon Shot?
A Lemon Shot typically has an ABV of around 20–30% depending on the amount of lemon juice and sweetener added to dilute the spirit. Using citrus vodka (40% ABV) as the base and adding juice reduces the overall alcohol concentration. It is stronger than most cocktails but consumed in a single sip.
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