When was the Vesper Martini Invented
The Vesper Martini was invented by Ian Fleming in his 1953 James Bond novel “Casino Royale.” In the book, Bond orders the Vesper Martini, which is made with gin, vodka, and Kina Lillet, a type of vermouth. The cocktail is named after the character Vesper Lynd, Bond’s love interest in the novel.
Since its creation in the novel, the Vesper Martini has become a classic cocktail that is popular among Martini enthusiasts. However, it’s worth noting that the recipe has evolved over time, and different bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts have put their own spin on the original recipe.
The Vesper Martini is a classic cocktail that has been featured in literature and popular culture, and as such, it has inspired some famous quotes. Here are a few examples:
“I never have more than one drink before dinner. But I do like that one to be large and very strong and very cold and very well-made.” – James Bond in “Casino Royale” by Ian Fleming, referring to the Vesper Martini.
“The Vesper Martini. Shaken, not stirred.” – James Bond in the movie “Casino Royale” (2006), played by Daniel Craig.
“I drink to make other people more interesting.” – Ernest Hemingway, who was known to enjoy a Vesper Martini.
“A Vesper, please. Shaken, not stirred.” – Austin Powers in the movie “Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery” (1997), a parody of James Bond.
“Vodka is tasteless going down, but it is memorable coming up.” – Garrison Keillor, referring to the potency of the Vesper Martini.
These quotes demonstrate the enduring appeal of the Vesper Martini as a symbol of sophistication, elegance, and cool.
What You Need
- gin
- vodka
- Lillet Blanc (a type of vermouth)
- Lemon peel or twist, for garnish
How to Make a Vesper Martini
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled Martini glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or peel by squeezing the lemon peel over the drink to release the essential oils and rubbing the peel around the rim of the glass.
Tip For Making a Vesper Martini
- Be sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Stirring the cocktail instead of shaking it can also be an option for a more refined taste.
- The original recipe calls for Kina Lillet, which has been discontinued, but Lillet Blanc is a suitable substitute.
Frequently asked questions
What is Lillet Blanc?
Lillet Blanc is a type of French vermouth made from a blend of white wine and citrus liqueurs. It is used in many classic cocktails, including the Vesper Martini.
Why is the Vesper Martini shaken instead of stirred?
The Vesper Martini is shaken instead of stirred because it is made with vodka, which is a heavier spirit than gin. Shaking the cocktail helps to blend the ingredients more thoroughly and creates a frothy texture.
What is the difference between a Vesper Martini and a regular Martini?
The Vesper Martini is made with both gin and vodka, while a traditional Martini is typically made with only gin or only vodka. The Vesper Martini also includes Lillet Blanc, which gives it a slightly sweeter and more complex flavor profile than a traditional Martini.
How strong is a Vesper Martini?
The Vesper Martini is a strong cocktail, with a high alcohol content due to the combination of gin and vodka. The exact alcohol content will depend on the specific brands and amounts of gin and vodka used, but it is generally considered to be a potent drink.
Vesper Martini
Vesper martini appeared in the James Bond movie series "Casino Royale" and is also a martini created by the main character in the movie. The movie lines accurately state the recipe and practice of this drink: three measures of Gordon’s, one of vodka, half a measure of Kina Lillet, shaken, not stirred. This martini is different from the common martini, it is shaken and not stirred with the stirring cup method, because of the unique approach and ingredients, coupled with the publicity effect of the film, this drink has become a modern classic cocktail.
Ingredients
- 3 oz gin
- 1 oz vodka
- ½ oz lillet
- 1 lemon peel
Instructions
Put the above ingredients into a shaker with ice and shake well. Shake well and pour into a martini glass, with the lemon peel prepared in advance for aroma and decoration.With light wine aroma, slight bitterness, strong spiciness, high alcohol.
