Barsys
Vesper Martini
About
The vesper martini is more than a cocktail – it’s a statement. Made iconic by James Bond in Casino Royale, this drink is a hybrid of gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc. Bold, crisp, and unapologetically strong, it’s not just stirred –it’s often shaken, as Bond famously preferred.
The Vesper sets itself apart with its split base: gin for botanicals, vodka for clean bite, and Lillet Blanc for a hint of citrus and floral complexity. It’s lean, cool, and built for those who know what they want—and like it served ice cold.
It may have started as a literary invention, but today, the Vesper Martini stands on its own as a confident, balanced, and high-proof classic.
Shaken or Stirred? Traditionally? Stirred. Bond’s version? Shaken. Either way, chill it thoroughly. Stirring preserves the texture and clarity, while shaking adds dilution and froth. The choice is yours—but commit to one.
What You'll Need
For one Vesper Martini cocktail:
- 60ml gin
- 20ml vodka
- 15ml Lillet Blanc (or dry aromatized wine)
- Ice
Optional garnish: A thin lemon twist, never an olive.
Pro tip: Chill your glass and tools in advance. This drink is all about clarity, temperature, and timing.
How to Make It
- Add gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc to a mixing glass (or shaker).
- Fill with ice and stir (or shake) vigorously for 20 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass.
- Garnish with a long, thin lemon peel expressed over the surface.
For the full recipe, download the Barsys App.
Tasting Notes
The Barsys Edge
Precision matters more than ever with a vesper martini. You’re working with a high-proof cocktail that lives or dies by balance. Barsys ensures your spirit ratios are flawless. All you have to do is stir (or shake) like you mean it.
Let Barsys deliver the formula. You bring the style.
Sip Setting
It’s a cocktail for the golden hour. Think rooftop lounges, upscale gatherings, or solo evenings when you want to channel quiet confidence. The Vesper doesn’t scream. It speaks with intention.
Garnish Game
A thin lemon twist is tradition. Express it over the glass to release oils, then drop it in or discard for aroma only. No olives. No frills. Just sharp citrus to match the drink’s clarity.
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FAQs
What is a Vesper Martini?
A vesper martini is a cocktail made with gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc. It was first introduced in Ian Fleming’s Casino Royale and has become a modern classic known for its strength and balance.
Why mix gin and vodka?
The combination softens the botanicals in gin and adds clarity and strength from vodka. The blend creates a unique texture and a clean finish.
Can I shake it like James Bond?
Yes, though purists may prefer stirring to maintain clarity and texture. Shaking dilutes the drink slightly and creates a colder, frothier experience.
What is Lillet Blanc?
Lillet Blanc is a French aromatized wine with citrus and floral notes. It replaces the traditional dry vermouth in this martini.
Can Barsys make this cocktail?
Absolutely. Load the gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc into Barsys. Let it handle the exact pours—then you shake or stir, strain, and garnish.