Martini purists argue over everything: wet or dry, dirty or extra dirty, olives or onions, gin or vodka. The one thing they can agree on is that a conventional martini should either be gin or vodka, mixed with dry vermouth. In the world of martinis, the Vesper shuns convention, much like its creator James Bond.
The original recipe called for Kina Lillet, which Lillet discontinued in 1986. Lucky for us, Lillet Blanc is slightly sweet, more floral and less bitter than its predecessor.
The very first book in the series, Casino Royale, introduced the world to Bond’s signature martini and his insistence of having them “shaken, not stirred.” Named after Bond’s love interest, Vesper Lynd, the drink ditches the usual gin-versus-vodka debate, calling for both gin AND vodka. And instead of dry vermouth, it flirts with the vivacious Lillet Blanc, which gives the drink a fruitier essence in place of vermouth’s savoriness. The end result is a balanced sweetness, juiciness and floral aroma that makes the Vesper more approachable for those who may find a classic Martini a bit too boozy. The perfect invitation for those seeking a martini with a twist.
- 1.5 oz Plymouth Gin
- 0.75 oz Absolut Elyx Vodka
- 0.5 oz Lillet Blanc
- Garnish: 1 lemon twist
You have two options to prepare this bad boy. Grab your cocktail shaker, toss in some ice, and shake all the ingredients as if Bond were ordering it himself. Or if you’re feeling more refined, pour the ingredients with ice into a mixing glass, and stir with a bar spoon until the glass is cold. Dealer’s choice!
Strain into a Martini glass, then grab a lemon twist and gently squeeze it over the drink before delicately perching it on the edge of the glass to add an extra touch of elegance to a drink worthy of its namesake.
