The Vesper: Shaken or Stirred, Mr. Bond?
Inspiration
Vesper
Made by Sir Ian Fleming, updated by Jena Ellenwood
In 1953, Sir Ian Fleming introduced the world to 007 and his signature cocktail and the rest, as they say, is history. But what, exactly is the Vesper? I’ll let Mr. Bond explain his preference:
“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?”
This boozy variation on the dry martini features Kina Lillet, a bitter, wine-based spirit that is no longer made. We substitute with Lillet Blanc in this recipe—or, for a floral twist, Elderflower Liqueur. I also adjust the ratios for little more balance. And sorry 007, this recipe is stirred to preserve the silkiness of the spirits.
If you love this cocktail, check out our full cocktail library or our YouTube Craft Cocktail Making playlist for home mixology lessons as you make your drink.
Let’s Get Stirrin’ (Not Shakin’)
Serves: 1
Special Tools: Jigger, Barspoon, Mixing Glass, Y Peeler, Knife
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
1 ½ oz Gin
¾ oz Vodka
¾ oz Lillet Blanc (or Elderflower Liqueur)
Lemon
Steps
- Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass.
- Add ice and stir.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish your Vesper with an expressed lemon twist.
Cocktail flavor profile
- Sweet
- Spiritous
- Refreshing
- Complex/Funky/Unique
- Botanical
Let me know what you discover, or if you would have rated it differently in the comments below…
