Rub the lemon wedge around the rim of a rocks glass. Dip the rim into a small plate with the coarse celery salt or smoked salt so it adheres evenly. Set the glass aside.

Fill the rimmed rocks glass about three-quarters full with ice.

In a mixing glass or shaker (no need to shake vigorously), combine the vodka (2 oz), tomato juice (4 oz), fresh lemon juice (0.5 oz), Worcestershire sauce (0.5 tsp), prepared horseradish (0.5 tsp), hot sauce (2 dashes), olive brine (0.25 oz, optional), celery salt (1 tsp), freshly ground black pepper (1 tsp) and smoked paprika (0.25 tsp).

Stir the mixture gently but thoroughly with a bar spoon for 15–20 seconds to chill and slightly dilute, allowing the flavors to marry. Taste and adjust seasoning: add another dash of hot sauce for heat, a pinch more celery salt for savoriness, or a splash more lemon juice if it needs brightness.

Strain (or pour) the mixed Bloody-Gosh Mary over the ice in the prepared rocks glass.

Garnish

Skewer the olive (and bacon strip if using) on a cocktail pick and rest it across the rim of the glass or place it in the drink.

Insert the celery stalk into the glass and add the lemon wedge on the rim or in the drink for squeezing. Serve immediately.