James Bond is famously associated with his martini (shaken, not stirred), but fans of Ian Fleming’s “Casino Royale” will recall the Vesper cocktail as another of Bond’s choices—a more bitter version of the classic martini.
Named after Bond’s love interest and double agent, the original Vesper recipe goes: “Three measures of Gordon’s, one of vodka, half a measure of Kina Lillet. Shake it very well until it’s ice-cold, then add a large thin slice of lemon-peel.”
Thinking it sounds strong? You’d be right! However, I’ve tweaked the recipe for a balanced flavor that stays true to its origins.
The Bitter Element
Since Kina Lillet is no longer available, two alternatives can be used to achieve a similarly dry, bitter martini taste.
The first substitute is Lillet Blanc, which is essentially Kina Lillet without quinine, giving a slightly less bitter profile. To add back some bitterness, a few dashes of Angostura bitters are suggested.
My preferred replacement is Cocchi Americano, an Italian product with flavor similarities to the original Kina Lillet, making it ideal for the Vesper.
Choosing Gin and Vodka for the Vesper
For the gin, any London Dry variety will do; Gordon’s, for a traditional choice, or keep the juniper notes dominant by choosing Beefeater or Ford’s.
For the vodka, go with your favorite unflavored option. Tito’s works well, or any quality vodka in similar price range.
Stir, Don’t Shake
Contrary to Bond’s famous instruction, stirring rather than shaking is recommended for the Vesper to preserve its full flavor.
Stirring provides just the right dilution from the melting ice without watering down the cocktail. Once poured into a glass, a lemon peel garnish enhances its citrus aroma and rounds out the experience.
If using Lillet Blanc, add a few dashes of Angostura bitters to adjust the flavor.
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1 ounce London Dry gin
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1 ounce vodka
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3/4 ounce Cocchi Americano or Lillet Blanc
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Lemon peel, for garnish
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Stir together the ingredients: Pour the gin, vodka, and Cocchi Americano into a mixing glass filled 2/3 with ice. Stir for 20 seconds to chill and dilute.
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Strain and garnish: Strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with the lemon peel.
Nutrition information (per serving): 131 Calories, 0g Fat, 1g Carbs, 0g Protein.
