Place the rocks glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes or fill it with ice and water while you prepare the drink to chill; discard the ice water before serving.

Salt rim (optional)

If using salt, rub the lime wedge around the outer rim of the chilled glass (or the top lip) and very lightly dip the rim into the coarse sea salt so only a subtle amount adheres. Set aside.

Mixing the cocktail

Add vodka, lime juice, simple syrup, and dry vermouth into a shaker filled with ice (or into a mixing glass if you prefer stirring).

Shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds until well chilled (or stir for 20–30 seconds if using a mixing glass to achieve dilution without aeration).

Prepare a single large ice wedge: if you haven't pre-made one, fill a small rectangular container with water and freeze until solid, then remove and trim if needed to fit the rocks glass. Place the large ice wedge into the chilled rocks glass.

Strain the chilled cocktail over the ice wedge into the rocks glass, pouring gently so the liquor flows around the wedge and chills without breaking the ice.

Garnish & Finish

Express the oils of the lime wheel over the surface of the drink by holding the wheel over the glass and giving it a quick squeeze, then drop the wheel onto the ice wedge as a garnish.

Optional: finish with a very light twist of freshly cracked black pepper over the top for a subtle savory note.

Serve immediately with a short straw or sip directly; encourage the drinker to let the ice wedge melt gradually to slightly change the dilution over time.