Vesper
Gin, vodka, and aromatic wine combine for James Bond's bracing signature martini.
30%
ABV
medium
Difficulty
martini
Glass
Flavor Profile
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.”
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
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Vesper.
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
Reverse Vesper
Flips the gin and vodka proportions for a smoother, less botanical drink.
Changes
Rosé Vesper
Substitutes Lillet Rosé for a fruity, pink-hued variation.
Changes
Zero-Proof Vesper
Combines non-alcoholic gin, vodka, and aperitif for a booze-free homage.
Changes
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