Pour the celery salt onto a small plate. Run the lemon wedge around the outer rim of a highball or pint glass to moisten it. Dip the moistened rim into the celery salt and twist to coat evenly. Set the glass aside.

Trim the celery stalk: remove any tough bottom pieces and leave a long stalk for garnish. Place inside the prepared glass once cocktail is poured.

Cocktail

Fill a shaker (or a mixing glass) with ice.

Add vodka, tomato juice (or Clamato), fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, and freshly ground black pepper to the shaker.

Cover and shake gently — about 5–8 seconds — just to chill and combine without over-diluting. Alternatively, stir for 10–15 seconds if you prefer less aeration.

Fill the prepared celery-salt-rimmed glass with fresh ice (if desired). Strain the cocktail into the glass.

Taste and adjust heat or seasoning: add an extra dash of Tabasco or hot sauce and a pinch more pepper if you like it spicier; stir gently to combine.

Garnish with the celery stalk placed in the glass. Serve immediately.