Virgin Mary (rocks) Recipe

Build and Garnish

1. 1

   Prepare the glass

   Chill a rocks glass briefly by filling it with ice water or placing it briefly in the freezer (3–5 minutes). Discard the chilling ice/water before building the drink.

2. 2

   Rim (optional)

   If you like a salty rim, rub the lemon wedge around the glass rim, then dip the rim into a small plate with celery salt to coat lightly. Tap off any excess.

3. 3

   Combine ingredients

   In a mixing glass or shaker (no need to shake vigorously), add the tomato juice (4 oz), fresh lemon juice (0.5 oz), Worcestershire sauce (3 tsp), prepared horseradish (0.5 tsp), hot sauce (3 dashes), freshly ground black pepper (about 6 grinds), celery salt (0.25 tsp), and a pinch of smoked paprika if using.

4. 4

   Taste and adjust

   Stir the mixture with a bar spoon for 10–15 seconds. Taste and adjust seasoning: add 1 more dash of hot sauce if you want more heat, another 0.25 tsp Worcestershire for umami, or a squeeze more lemon if it needs brightness.

5. 5

   Assemble on ice

   Fill the chilled rocks glass with large ice cubes (about 6 pieces). Pour the seasoned tomato mixture over the ice through a strainer (if prepared in a shaker) or directly from the mixing glass.

6. 6

   Garnish and serve

   Garnish with a celery stalk and a lemon wedge on the rim. Optionally add a cucumber ribbon or a cherry tomato on a cocktail pick for extra visual flair. Serve immediately with a short stirring straw so the drinker can re-stir as it mellows.