If rimming: rub the lemon wedge around the glass rim, dip the rim into a small plate of kosher salt or celery salt to lightly coat. Set the glass aside.

Fill a tall glass (Collins or highball) with ice cubes and set aside.

Mix Cocktail

In a mixing glass or cocktail shaker without shaking (to avoid foaming), add the vodka (2 oz) and tomato juice (4 oz).

Add fresh lemon juice (0.5 oz), Worcestershire sauce (2 tsp), hot sauce (3 dashes), prepared horseradish (0.5 tsp), celery salt (0.25 tsp), freshly ground black pepper (about 4 grinds), and a pinch of smoked or regular paprika.

Stir the mixture well with a bar spoon for about 20–30 seconds to combine and slightly chill. Taste and adjust seasoning: add more hot sauce for heat, more Worcestershire for savory depth, or more lemon for brightness.

Fill the prepared glass (from Prepare Glass) with fresh ice if needed. Strain or pour the mixed Bloody Mary over the ice.

Garnish and Serve

Garnish with a celery stalk and a lemon wedge on the rim. Optionally add a pickle spear or an olive on a cocktail pick.

Serve immediately with a straw and an extra napkin. Recommend: stir briefly before drinking to redistribute spices.