Fresh Lemon Juice
Juice freshly squeezed from lemons, used to provide acidity, brightness, and balance in cocktails. Essential for sours, highballs, and many classic recipes.
Quick Facts
Flavour Profile
Primary Flavours
Tasting Notes
Sharp, clean acidity with fresh citrus aroma and a crisp finish. Flavour dulls quickly as juice oxidises.
Recommended Brands
Budget Choice
Fresh whole lemons
Premium Choice
Fresh, unwaxed lemons
Storage & Handling
Store whole lemons refrigerated. Once juiced, store covered and refrigerated and use as soon as possible. Avoid prolonged exposure to air.
Shelf Life
Whole: 1–2 weeks refrigerated. Juiced: 24 hours refrigerated (best within 8–12 hours)
Fresh Lemon Juice
Juice freshly squeezed from lemons, used to provide acidity, brightness, and balance in cocktails. Essential for sours, highballs, and many classic recipes.
Pro Tip
Acidity fades fast — if the juice tastes flat, the cocktail will too.
Usage
Used as a primary acid component in cocktails. Typically measured and added directly after squeezing to balance sweetness and enhance freshness.
Top Tips
- Always use freshly squeezed juice — bottled lemon juice lacks brightness.
- Strain after squeezing to remove pulp and seeds for consistency.
- Juice as close to service as possible for best flavour.
Possible Substitutions
- Fresh lime juice (different acidity and aroma)
- Citric acid solution (less aromatic)
- Bottled lemon juice (not recommended)
Production Method
Lemons are cut and squeezed by hand or press to extract juice. Juice is strained before use to ensure consistency.
History & Context
Lemon juice has been a cornerstone of mixed drinks since the earliest punch and sour recipes. Its acidity provides balance, structure, and freshness across countless cocktail styles.