The Vesper Martini

In minutes 74& 75 we have the iconic scene of James Bond ordering the Vesper Martini. The ingredients of the drink;

3 measures of Gordons, one of Vodka, half a measure of Kina Lillet shake it over Ice and add a thin slice of lemon peel.

This is a direct lift from the book Casino Royale, which speaks to the anachronistic way in which this drink is ordered as Kina Lillet is no longer a drink that exists. The origins of the name Vesper come’s from, according to Andrew Lycett’s biography,

‘Vesper Lynd’s name came from an incident Ian had experienced with Ivar (Bryce) on Jamaica’s north coast. They visited a large mansion, met by an old butler who ushered them into a dimly lit drawing room. The butler returned carrying a tray with three glasses. “Vespers are served,’ he announced. This turned out to be a mixture of iced rum, fruit and herbs which their host drank at 6’o’clock every evening. They invented their own gin based cocktail, the one ordered by Bond and called it Vesper. When Ian wrote his novel, he appropriated the name for his heroine.’

 

For further information on the name Vesper, and it’s origins you can find some interesting information and myth-debunking on Jeremy Duns blog post here. Below is an excerpt. With thanks to Marc Hernandez for sending this on.

The podcast

There Will Be Bond breaks down the minutes and you really should subscribe. I’ve had at least 3 people tell me they’re enjoying it. You can listen to the breakdown of Casino Royale on the podcast here. (Spotify). For iTunes simply search There Will Be Bond on your app. Leave a review, bless your hearts.