James Bond might be forever associated with the Martini (shaken, of course), but true cocktail pros and Bond lovers alike also know about the Vesper, which Ian Fleming created in the 1953 novel Casino Royale. Sometimes, simplicity is key — hence why the Vesper has won over the hearts of many, and is now an internationally beloved build. Check out the full list of the 50 most popular cocktails in the world.
A Vesper is a very strong cocktail, carrying herbaceous notes from gin that are tamed by the grain notes of vodka. The addition of Lillet brings forward slightly sweet flavors with botanicals of its own that nicely complement those in the gin.
Is the Vesper a Martini?
Yes, the Vesper is a Martini, its full name being the Vesper Martini.
Who created the Vesper?
Created by Ian Fleming in his 1953 novel “Casino Royale,” the Vesper gained popularity as the favorite drink of James Bond. The cocktail was created by Fleming as a variation on the dry Martini, who decided to name the cocktail after Bond love interest Vesper Lynd.
The Southside Recipe:
Falling somewhere between a Gimlet and a Mojito, the Southside is an easy-to-make, quaffable, and refreshing cocktail.
The Aviation Recipe:
Once referred to as a “forgotten classic,” the Aviation became one of the most popular gin cocktails in bars across America for a time.
The Rosy Gin Punch Recipe:
This easy gin cocktail can easily be batched to serve a crowd. Learn how to make it with this recipe from cocktail columnist Natalie Migliarini.
Negroni:
Get our recipe for a great Negroni. Learn everything you need to know to make a perfect Negroni.
The Pegu Club:
Half glorified Gimlet, half Gin Sout, the Pegu Club is a shaken combination of London Dry gin, orange Curaçao, lime juice, and bitters.
Tuxedo No. 2:
Get our recipe for a great Tuxedo No. 2. Learn everything you need to know to make a perfect Tuxedo No. 2.