Rub the cut side of the lemon wedge around the rim of a tall highball or pint glass. Dip the rim into a shallow plate of coarse salt or celery salt to coat. Set the glass aside.

Build the Cocktail

Fill a cocktail shaker or mixing glass with the cubed ice.

Add 2 oz vodka, 4 oz tomato juice, 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 3 dashes hot sauce, 0.5 tsp prepared horseradish, 0.25 tsp celery salt, 6 turns freshly ground black pepper, and 0.5 tsp pickle juice (if using) into the shaker.

Secure the shaker lid and roll or gently shake the mixture for 5–8 seconds. A short shake chills and lightly aerates the drink; rolling (pouring back and forth between two containers) keeps it smoother while still chilling.

Taste the cocktail and adjust seasoning to preference: add more hot sauce for heat, more Worcestershire for umami, extra lemon for brightness, or a pinch more celery salt or horseradish for bite.

Finish & Garnish

Fill the prepared glass with fresh ice if desired. Strain the mixed Bloody Mary into the glass.

Garnish with a celery stalk, a lemon wedge on the rim, 2 green olives (skewered if desired), and a cocktail or cornichon pickle. Serve immediately with a long stirrer or straw.