Ian Fleming, the author of the famous James Bond books, invented the vesper cocktail in his 1953 novel, Casino Royale. James Bond 007 ordered the martini in the film whilst at the bar "Three measures of Gordon's, one of vodka, half a measure of Kina Lillet. Shake it very well until it's ice-cold, then add a large thin slice of lemon peel. "
The vesper, also known as a vesper martini, differs from a traditional martini in that it calls for both gin and vodka. It also swaps in Lillet, an aromatic honey-lemon French aperitif, in place of the signature dry Vermouth. Whilst Bond likes a shaken martini, we suggest stirring it, as this will prevent the martini being diluted by the ice.
Ease of Making: Easy, amend quantities as needed.
Glass Type: NicK Nora or Martini Glass
Taste: Spirit led it is citrusy, smooth, and super strong drink you're soon to love.
Recipe:
- 90 ml Gin
- 30 ml Vodka
- 15 ml Lillet Blanc (or other aromatized wine)
- 5 ml Kina aromatised wine (rinse glass)
Method:
- Fill a cocktail shaker or mixing glass with ice cubes, then pour the gin, vodka, and Lillet over the ice.
- Stir until well-chilled, about 20 seconds.
- Rinse your glass with the Kina
- Strain the drink into a chilled cocktail glass
- Garnish with lemon twist.
A softer less potent version can be made using
- 45ml of gin
- 22ml of Vodka
