The Vesper, also known as the Vesper Martini, is a creation of author Ian Fleming for his legendary British spy character, James Bond. This cocktail made its debut in Fleming’s 1953 novel “Casino Royale,” and is named after the fictional character Vesper Lynd, who is both a double agent and Bond’s love interest.
In the story, when Bond orders his trademark drink, he gives precise instructions, leaving little room for interpretation in its preparation: “A dry martini. One. 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.”
Contrary to the vodka martini and the mojito, which gained popularity through earlier Bond films, the Vesper did not achieve widespread recognition. This lack of familiarity can likely be attributed to the limited availability of Kina Lillet and its subsequent replacement, Lillet Blanc. Additionally, author Ian Fleming himself considered the Vesper to be “unpalatable.”
Vesper Cocktail Ingredients
Before we delve into the Vesper, let’s explore the essential ingredients you’ll need, measured in milliliters (ml):
For the Vesper Cocktail:
- 2 oz (60 ml) of London dry gin
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) of vodka
- 0.25 oz (7.5 ml) of Lillet Blanc
- Lemon peel for garnish
- Ice cubes
Vesper Cocktail Recipe
Making the perfect Vesper is about achieving a balanced blend of flavors and elegance. Here’s the ideal recipe using milliliter (ml) measurements to get you started:
Step 1: Chilled Martini Glass
- Start by chilling a martini glass. You can do this by placing the glass in the freezer for a few minutes.
Step 2: The Cocktail Build
- In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine the following ingredients:
- 60 ml (2 oz) of London dry gin
- 15 ml (0.5 oz) of vodka
- 7.5 ml (0.25 oz) of Lillet Blanc
Step 3: Stirring
- Gently stir the ingredients in the mixing glass to chill and dilute the cocktail slightly. Stir for about 30 seconds to achieve the desired level of dilution.
Step 4: Straining
- Strain the chilled cocktail into the prepared martini glass.
Step 5: Garnishing for Elegance
- Complete the Vesper by expressing a lemon peel over the glass to release its oils.
The Vesper – Order One For Bond, James Bond
The Vesper, initially a blend of gin, vodka, and Kina Lillet, has evolved due to the discontinuation of Kina Lillet. Contemporary mixologists adapt the original recipe to replicate its distinct flavor, commonly using Lillet Blanc or Cocchi Americano as substitutes.
Whether you’re sipping it in a chic casino bar, hosting a James Bond-themed soirée, or simply enjoying it at home, the Vesper is a versatile and captivating drink.
It’s a testament to the art of great cocktail recipes and the joy of crafting cocktails that embody sophistication and intrigue.
Cheers to mastering the art of creating the perfect Vesper!
