Rub the lemon wedge around the rim of a tall Collins or highball glass. If you like, dip the rim into a shallow plate with celery salt to coat the rim lightly. Fill the glass with ice and set aside.

Mix cocktail

In a cocktail shaker (or a large mixing glass), add the vodka, tomato juice, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (start with 3 dashes and adjust later), prepared horseradish, celery salt, black pepper, and pickle juice if using. Add a handful of ice.

Shake or roll

Secure the shaker and give it a brief gentle shake — about 5–8 seconds — just to chill and combine. If you prefer a slightly smoother texture, instead stir the mixture for about 15 seconds in the mixing glass. Avoid over-shaking, which makes the tomato juice frothy.

Taste and adjust

Strain the mixture into the prepared glass over fresh ice. Taste and adjust seasoning: add more hot sauce for heat, more Worcestershire for umami, more lemon for brightness, or a pinch more celery salt/black pepper as needed.

Garnish and serve

Garnish with the celery stalk and lemon wedge. Add any optional garnishes such as olives, pickled green beans, a spear of pickle, cocktail shrimp, or a strip of crispy bacon. Serve immediately with a stirrer/chewing stick.