Vesper

Bond fans: This one’s for you!

The Vesper dry Martini is a timeless classic cocktail, first introduced in Ian Fleming’s Bond novel, Casino Royale. This sophisticated libation gained its popularity as the signature drink of James Bond and features the perfect balance of gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc, crafting a beverage that exudes elegance with a subtle edge.

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While James Bond is famous for his “Martini – shaken, not stirred”, this variation of that cocktail was actually invented by the character in the 1952 novel. Here’s the full exchange, according to Wikipedia:

“A dry Martini,” [Bond] said. “One. In a deep champagne goblet.”

“Oui, monsieur.”

“Just a moment. 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. Got it?”

“Certainly, monsieur.” The barman seemed pleased with the idea.

“Gosh, that’s certainly a drink,” said Leiter.

Bond laughed. “When I’m…er…concentrating,” he explained, “I never have more than one drink before dinner. But I do like that one to be large and very strong and very cold and very well-made. I hate small portions of anything, particularly when they taste bad. This drink’s my own invention. I’m going to patent it when I can think of a good name.”

—Ian Fleming, Casino Royale, Chapter 7, “Rouge et Noir’

Later in the book he thinks of a name for his drink of choice: the Vesper.

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Vesper Ingredients

This potent cocktail mixes two base spirits with an aperitif; it’s a complex Martini that cuts down the liquor burn, making it a great version for the casual Martini drinker who finds the taste of gin or vodka a little too strong and wants slightly more floral flavors.

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients:

• Gin: A juniper-forward spirit, gin provides a botanical depth to the cocktail.
• Vodka: A touch of vodka adds a smooth, neutral base that complements the gin’s botanical flavors. Using both spirits is called a split-base.
• Lillet Blanc: A French aromatized wine aperitif, Lillet brings a nuanced sweetness with herbal undertones and a subtle floral note that gives this classic drink its distinctive taste. FYI– It used to be called Kina Lillet, so you may see reference to that in recipes. The formula for the new version is a little different than the James Bond-era Kina Lillet… but that’s what we’re working with these days, so don’t fret. Notice that we aren’t using bitters like we would in the classic Martini. That’s because the Lillet subs in for both the dry vermouth/fortified wine and the bitters.
• Lemon Twist: Sorry olives– A strip of lemon peel is the traditional garnish for this delicious Martini variation.

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Ian Fleming, the Mixologist?

While I don’t know much about author Ian Fleming’s experience as a bartender or cocktail enthusiast, I can tell you he got this one right. While obviously a take on a Martini, it differs in its use of Lillet in place of vermouth. This sophisticated cocktail also features a three-to-one ratio of gin to vodka and is finished with a peel of lemon.

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Variations of the Vesper

It’s kind of funny to talk about ways to modify the Vesper because it’s already a Martini variation, but here are some options for mixing up this spirit-forward cocktail:

• Flavored Vesper: Experiment by infusing the vodka or gin with unique flavors like citrus or herbs for a little more depth.
• Violet Vesper: Swap in Empress gin for a gorgeous purple cocktail.
• Bitter Orange Vesper: Instead of Lillet, use Cocchi Americano or Aperol.
• Vodka Over Gin: If you prefer a mellower flavor profile, invert the recipe and use 2 ounces vodka, 1 ounce gin instead. The drink will be more neutral and less botanical. 
• Bitters: Add two dashes of orange bitters, like you would with a classic Martini. Since Lillet already offers a bitter profile, this will make your drink a little extra, just FYI. If you want to learn more about bitters and making your own, check out our bitters course!

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Our Variation

Chris & Rob developed their own variation of this amazing drink, adding a little more flavor & depth. Pineapple plays off tequila, giving this herbal cocktail a slightly tropical vibe.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 ounces Basil & Elderflower Gin (from Common Grounds)
• 1 ounce Tequila Blanco
• 1/2 ounce Lillet Blanc
• 2 dashes Pineapple Tincture (homemade– to learn more, sign up for our Bitters & Tinctures workshop!)

DIRECTIONS:

• Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice.
• Stir for approximately 10 seconds until chilled and well-mixed.
• Strain into a coupe glass and garnish with a lemon twist.

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Why Mixologists Love It: The Refine Taste of the Vesper

The Vesper’s appeal extends beyond 007, offering a cocktail experience that’s suave yet approachable. Its combination of spirits results in a balanced drink, perfect for both aficionados and newcomers to the Martini world.

While I may not agree with “shaken, not stirred” for this Martini (and, for what it’s worth, we stirred it instead of shaking), I do think Fleming (and Bond) are on to something.

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This often-forgotten Martini is ever so slightly sweeter than the traditional recipe, and the Lillet rounds out the gin and vodka beautifully. I would contend this one’s also a lot more drinkable – so be careful with it! It still packs a Martini’s worth of booze and can sneak up on you quickly.

That said, this is one of my favorite cocktails and maybe even my favorite Martini of all!

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Ready to Shake (or Stir) Things Up?

Ready to summon your inner Bond? Try the original recipe, tweak it, and share your thoughts in the comments below!