Vesper Martini
The Vesper Martini is a sophisticated cocktail that gained fame through Ian Fleming's James Bond novel "Casino Royale." It's a strong and crisp drink, characterized by its unique combination of gin, vodka, and the French aperitif wine Lillet Blanc.
Equipment
- Martini glass
- Cocktail shaker
- Ice cubes
- Strainer
- Lemon peeler or knife
Ingredients
- 3 oz gin
- 1 oz vodka
- 1/2 oz Lillet Blanc
- Lemon peel for garnish
Instructions
- Chill a martini glass by placing it in the freezer or filling it with ice water and setting it aside.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes to cool the spirits as you mix them.
- Pour the gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc into the shaker.
- Shake the cocktail vigorously until well chilled. This should take about 15 seconds.
- Discard the ice from the martini glass if you were chilling it with water.
- Strain the mixture into the chilled martini glass.
- Express a lemon peel over the drink by twisting it to release the oils, and then drop it into the glass as a garnish.
Notes
The Vesper Martini is traditionally shaken, not stirred, as per James Bond's famous preference. Lillet Blanc has replaced the original Kina Lillet, which is no longer available. The cocktail should be enjoyed immediately after pouring to savor its crispness and aromatic garnish.