Vesper Martini
The Vesper Martini is a strong cocktail combining 3 spirits; gin, vodka and Kina Lillet. However, as Kina Lillet is no longer produced it is replaced with Lillet Blanc. Lillet Blanc is a sweet white wine aperitif from Podensac, France.
The Vesper Martini was invented by a famous author Ian Fleming whose book infamous secret agent character James Bond named it after the double agent Vesper Lynd.
Since Bond's favourite drink was Vodka Martini the Vesper cocktail because known as a Vesper Martini or James Bond Martini. The Vesper Martini is the drink Bond refers to when he utters his infamous request "shaken, not stirred".
We also have recipes for similar Martini drinks like the classic Vodka Martini, Dry Martini, Porn Star Martini, a Cherry Martini and the French Martini which you may enjoy.
- Total Time:
- Type: Cocktail
- Units: 3
Equipment
- Cocktail glass
Ingredients
- 90 ml Gin
- 30 ml Vodka
- 15 ml Lillet Blanc
- lemon peel (to garnish)
Instructions
- Pour in all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake well until chilled.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with lemon peel.
FAQ
What is a Vesper Martini?
The Vesper Martini is a strong and aromatic cocktail made with gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc (or a similar aromatised wine). It was famously invented by Ian Fleming in Casino Royale as James Bond’s original drink of choice.
How is a Vesper Martini different from a regular Martini?
Unlike a traditional Martini, which uses either gin or vodka, the Vesper combines both. It also uses Lillet Blanc instead of dry vermouth, giving it a slightly bitter, floral edge.
Should a Vesper Martini be shaken or stirred?
According to James Bond, a Vesper Martini should be “shaken, not stirred.” However, many bartenders prefer stirring to preserve the drink’s clarity and texture.
What vodka cocktails are best?
If you like a vodka cocktail like the Vesper Martini, we also have a roundup of our top ten cocktails with vodka, its not official, but we think you’ll find these cocktails are all worth trying.
What is an aperitif?
The word Aperitif was originally used by the French to refer to an alcoholic drink to be consumed before dinner. Some popular examples of an aperitif are; the French Martini, Dubonnet, Negroni, Aperol Spritz or the Cardinale cocktail.