The Vesper cocktail is a drink with a passport, a mix of elegance and intrigue that transports you straight to the golden age of espionage. First crafted by Ian Fleming in Casino Royale, this bold, spirit-forward cocktail blends gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc for a sip that’s crisp, complex, and unapologetically strong.
It’s a drink designed for those who appreciate precision—shaken, not stirred, of course. A Vesper is more than just a cocktail; it’s a statement.
The clean, botanical notes of gin meet the silky smoothness of vodka, all brightened by Lillet’s subtle citrus and floral undertones. The best part? It pairs beautifully with Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers and crispy, golden Homemade KFC Chicken—because a well-balanced meal deserves a well-balanced drink.
This is the kind of cocktail that invites experimentation, rewarding those who play with ratios, garnish choices, and even the chill of the glass. Try swapping the Lillet Blanc for dry vermouth or adding a lemon twist for extra brightness.
Whether you’re crafting it for a refined dinner or a casual weekend indulgence, the Vesper is the perfect companion for a culinary adventure.
What Makes This Recipe Special!
- A Sip of History: This isn’t just a cocktail—it’s a legend, straight from the pages of Casino Royale, making it a drink with a story to tell.
- Precision Meets Simplicity: Three ingredients, one perfect balance—ideal for anyone looking to master a classic with professional flair.
- Unexpected Pairing Potential: Surprisingly delicious with Southern comfort foods like Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers and crispy fried chicken.
- Room for Creativity: Adjust the ratios or swap Lillet for dry vermouth to customize your perfect Vesper.
- Effortlessly Sophisticated: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this cocktail always feels like an occasion.
Vesper Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail mixing glass
- Bar spoon
- Jigger
- Strainer
- Ice cube tray
Ingredients
- 1 orange twist
- 1 fluid ounce vodka
- 1 cup ice
- ½ oz fluid ounce Lillet blanc
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail mixing glass with ice, ensuring it's well-chilled.
- Measure and pour gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc into the glass.
- Stir thoroughly with a bar spoon until the mixture is well chilled.
- Strain the cocktail into a pre-chilled glass.
- Garnish with an orange twist before serving.
Notes
- Stirring instead of shaking maintains the drink’s clarity and smooth texture.
- Use high-quality spirits to enhance the Vesper’s balanced yet bold flavor.
- Chilling the glass beforehand keeps the cocktail crisp for longer.
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 289kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Fibre | 1g |
Tips To Ease Your Job!
- Prep Your Ingredients First – Measure out your gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc before starting to speed up the mixing process.
- Use Large Ice Cubes – They melt slower, preventing dilution while effectively chilling your drink.
- Chill Everything – Keep your glass, spirits, and even your mixing glass in the fridge for an ultra-refreshing cocktail.
- Perfect Your Stirring – Stir for about 30 seconds to ensure proper dilution and a silky texture without over-watering the drink.
