Lemon is commonly zested for flavor in cocktails due to its bright, tangy taste and aromatic oils found in the zest. The zest, which is the thin, outer peel of the lemon, contains essential oils and contributes a concentrated burst of flavor that enhances the overall profile of cocktails. Its acidity and citrus notes complement a wide range of spirits and mixers, making it a versatile ingredient.
Other fruits, like banana, peach, and mango, are not typically zested because their peels do not offer the same intensity of flavor and aromatic qualities that lemon zest does. Instead, they are more often used in cocktails as purees, slices, or whole fruit garnishes rather than zested. This makes lemon the preferred choice for adding zest in cocktail recipes.