The Vesper Martini first appeared in Ian Fleming's 1953 classic work, Casino Royale, the first of the James Bond novels. The plot revolves around a high-stakes — and extremely dangerous — poker game at the so-called Casino Royale. At one point, Bond orders the aforementioned martini, inventing the recipe on the spot. This is actually a drink created by British author Ian Fleming for his most famous character: James Bond.
In Ian Fleming's book Casino Royale, James Bond (the main character) names this drink after his Bond girl, Vesper Lynd. The drink became iconic after the success of the book and was later immortalized in the cinematic adaptation of the James Bond series.
Yes, the ingredients of the Vesper Martini are mixed in a shaker with ice. However, the drink is subsequently strained, so that there is no ice in the glass. It is also possible to order the Vesper Martini without ice, depending on personal preference.
Yes, the Vesper Martini is a real drink. This drink was originally prepared with gin, vodka and Kina Lillet. However, this form of Lillet is no longer produced, so modern bartenders had to modify the recipe to mimic the original flavour. To do this, they replaced the Kina Lillet with Lillet Blanc.
The Vesper Martini is considered a “fascinating cocktail”. This drink has a slightly sweet and, at the same time, bitter taste, thanks to the Lillet. The vodka balances the botanical flavour of the gin.
