Vesper
Gin, vodka, and aromatic wine combine for James Bond's bracing signature martini.
30%
ABV
219
Calories
Martini
Glass
Flavor Profile
Flavor Journey
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Add all ingredients to a shaker filled with ice
Shake vigorously for 15 seconds or stir until icy cold
Strain into a chilled martini glass
Garnish with lemon twist
Glassware
Served up in a chilled martini glass
Garnish
Large lemon twist
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Use high-proof gin to mimic Bond's original call
Chill everything—the Vesper should be arctic cold
Express the lemon peel over the surface for bright aromatics
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Vesper.
Reverse Vesper
A modern, vodka-forward interpretation of the classic Vesper Martini. By inverting the primary proportions of gin and vodka, this variation shifts the cocktail's character from a juniper-led powerhouse to a smoother, more subtle drink.
Rosé Vesper
A modern, 21st-century reinterpretation of the classic Vesper martini, distinguished by the incorporation of rosé elements that impart a delicate fruit-forward character and a visually stunning blush hue. This evolution softens the original's potent bite, creating a more approachable cocktail.
Zero-Proof Vesper
A modern reinterpretation of the mid-century classic James Bond cocktail without alcohol, showcasing the innovation in zero-proof spirits and sophisticated non-alcoholic mixology.
Other Variations
Scaled-Down Vesper
Halves the proportions for a more manageable serving size.
Changes
Gin-Dominant
Boosts gin while reducing vodka for extra botanical punch.
Changes
Sweeter Vesper
Uses Lillet Blanc and a touch more to soften the bitterness.
Changes
History & Heritage
“Ian Fleming introduced the Vesper in his 1953 novel *Casino Royale*, having Bond specify three parts gin, one part vodka, and half a part Kina Lillet, shaken and served with a lemon peel. The drink, named for heroine Vesper Lynd, bridged the classic Martini with the rising popularity of vodka. Modern bartenders substitute Cocchi Americano or Lillet Blanc to approximate the now-defunct Kina Lillet.”
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Reverse Vesper
A modern, vodka-forward interpretation of the classic Vesper Martini. By inverting the primary proportions of gin and vodka, this variation shifts the cocktail's character from a juniper-led powerhouse to a smoother, more subtle drink.
White Negroni
A modern classic that brilliantly reimagines its iconic Italian predecessor through a distinctly French lens, swapping Campari and sweet vermouth for Suze and Lillet Blanc.
Corpse Reviver #2
Equal parts gin, orange liqueur, aperitif wine and lemon, awakened by an absinthe rinse—Craddock's revitalizing classic.