Vodka Sidecar (Balalaika)

Bala what?  Balalaika?  Such an odd name for a cocktail, isn't it?  And not one we've often heard being ordered across the local bar.  But it's actually a $25 dollar word for a very simple drink.

I came across it one day while searching for the ingredients to a classic sidecar, usually made with cognac.  But I saw this vodka version and it seemed more to our taste.  Most recipes leave out the simple syrup and rely on the sugared rim to balance out the tartness.  But I found that I wanted a touch of it to tone down the acid.  Either way, this powerful drink is not for the faint of heart.  But it goes down easy and numbs all pain.  Cheers!

Per Serving:
2 oz. Vodka
2 oz. Cointreau orange liqueur
1 oz. Lemon juice
1/2 oz. Simple syrup
Sugar for rimming the glass

Pour a small amount of sugar into a shallow bowl.  Run the edge of a cut lemon across a cocktail glass to wet it and then dip the edges into the sugar.  Chill for a few minutes to set.  Add the vodka, orange liqueur, lemon juice and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker.  Fill with ice and shake well.  Pour into the prepared glass and garnish with a wedge of lemon, if desired.