The cocktail that James Bond famously orders is called the Vesper Martini. It is mentioned in the 1953 book “Casino Royale” and also appears in the movie adaptation of the same name.
The Vesper Martini is not your typical martini. It is a unique blend of ingredients that gives it a distinct flavor profile. The original recipe, as described in the book, calls for three measures of Gordon's gin, one measure of vodka, and half a measure of Kina Lillet.
Now, let's break down the ingredients and understand their significance in creating the Vesper Martini.
– Gordon's gin: This is the base spirit of the cocktail. Gordon's gin is a London dry gin known for its crisp and juniper-forward flavor. It adds a strong botanical element to the drink.
– Vodka: The addition of vodka in the Vesper Martini provides a smoother and cleaner taste. It helps balance out the strong flavors of the gin and adds a subtle sweetness to the cocktail.
– Kina Lillet: This ingredient is what sets the Vesper Martini apart from a traditional martini. Kina Lillet is a French aperitif wine that has a slightly bitter and herbal taste. It adds complexity to the cocktail and enhances the overall flavor profile.
It is important to note that Kina Lillet is no longer available in its original form. The product has been reformulated and is now known as Lillet Blanc. The original Kina Lillet had a higher quinine content, which contributed to its bitterness. So, if you want to recreate the authentic Vesper Martini, you may need to experiment with different ratios or seek out a similar aperitif wine with a bitter profile.
To make the Vesper Martini, you would typically combine the gin, vodka, and Kina Lillet in a mixing glass or shaker with ice. Stir or shake the mixture until it is well chilled, and then strain it into a martini glass. Garnish with a lemon twist or a thin slice of lemon peel.
Now, as a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and experiment with various cocktails, including the Vesper Martini. I must say, it is a bold and intriguing drink. The combination of gin, vodka, and Kina Lillet creates a complex and well-balanced flavor profile. The herbal and bitter notes from the Kina Lillet complement the botanicals of the gin, while the vodka adds a smoothness that ties everything together.
I have also found that the Vesper Martini is a cocktail that can be easily customized to suit individual preferences. Some people may prefer a stronger gin presence, while others may want to adjust the sweetness or bitterness by altering the ratios of the ingredients. It's all about finding the perfect balance that suits your taste.
The Vesper Martini is a unique and iconic cocktail that James Bond introduced to the world. Its combination of gin, vodka, and Kina Lillet creates a drink that is both sophisticated and adventurous. Whether you are a fan of Bond or simply a cocktail enthusiast, the Vesper Martini is definitely worth trying. Cheers!