Vesper Martini Cocktail
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Vesper Martini Cocktail

The Vesper Martini is James Bond's original martini of choice - a combination of gin & vodka, but mostly gin. His martini was later changed to be primarily vodka because the Smirnoff brand insisted - a well-paying sponsor. This is how you make the original.

5 min
medium
martini glass

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 shot gin
  • 1/2 shot vodka
  • 1/4 shot dry vermouth
  • 1 lemon twist
Garnish: lemon twist

Instructions

  1. 1

    Add all the ingredients to your mixing glass. 

  2. 2

    Lovingly stir for 25-30 seconds (or shake for 10-15 seconds). 

  3. 3

    Fine strain into a chilled martini glass. 

  4. 4

    Add the garnish.

Pro Tip

For the perfect Vesper Martini, use a high-quality gin with a strong botanical profile to stand up to the vodka. And remember, Bond may have liked it shaken, but stirring will give you a smoother, more balanced drink.

The Story Behind the Vesper Martini Cocktail

The Vesper Martini was immortalized by Ian Fleming in his 1953 novel 'Casino Royale' as the drink of choice for the iconic James Bond. Named after the alluring double agent Vesper Lynd, this cocktail is a sophisticated blend of gin, vodka, and dry vermouth. Its creation marked a departure from the traditional martini, offering a unique twist that has captivated cocktail enthusiasts ever since.

What Pairs Well

Food Pairings

  • 🍽️
    Oysters Rockefeller

    The rich, briny flavors of oysters complement the strong, crisp notes of the Vesper Martini.

  • 🍽️
    Steak Tartare

    The bold, raw flavors of steak tartare pair perfectly with the robust Vesper Martini.

  • 🍽️
    Smoked Salmon Canapés

    The smoky, savory taste of salmon enhances the gin-forward profile of the Vesper Martini.

Perfect For

  • Casino Night

    Channel your inner James Bond with a Vesper Martini in hand at a glamorous casino night.

  • Spy Movie Marathon

    Enjoy a Vesper Martini while watching your favorite spy thrillers for the ultimate Bond experience.

  • Celebrating a Promotion

    Toast to success with a sophisticated Vesper Martini, perfect for celebrating a career milestone.

  • Rainy Sunday Afternoon

    Cozy up with a Vesper Martini and a good book on a lazy, rainy afternoon.

Fun Facts

  • The Vesper Martini was first introduced in Ian Fleming's 'Casino Royale' in 1953.

  • James Bond's original Vesper Martini recipe called for Kina Lillet, a type of vermouth that is no longer produced.

  • The Vesper Martini is named after Vesper Lynd, a character in the James Bond novel 'Casino Royale'.

Make This Drink with Tom or Tina

Watch our bartenders mix it up with fun animations!