Run the lemon wedge around the rim of a tall highball or pint glass. Pour the coarse salt or celery salt onto a small plate and dip the wet rim into the salt to coat. Set the glass aside.

Mix the drink

Fill a cocktail shaker or mixing glass with ice. Add 2 oz vodka, 4 oz tomato juice, 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice, 3 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 0.5 tsp prepared horseradish, 3 dashes hot sauce, 0.25 tsp celery salt, 6 turns freshly ground black pepper, and 0.25 tsp paprika (if using).

Stir, don't shake

Stir the mixture briskly for about 20 to 30 seconds until well chilled and slightly diluted. Stirring preserves the silky texture and prevents tomato juice from foaming.

Assemble

Fill the rimmed glass with fresh ice (about 1 cup). Strain the mixed cocktail into the prepared glass over the ice. Taste and adjust seasoning: add an extra dash of hot sauce, a pinch more celery salt, or a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Garnish & Serve

Garnish the drink with a celery stalk, a lemon wedge on the rim, and a green olive (skewered if preferred). Optionally add a pickle spear for a more substantial garnish. Serve immediately with a straw.