Vesper Cocktail

Gin
Author: Smriti Dey
Two martini glasses with olives on picks sit on a bright red surface, casting shadows.

The vesper - also referred to as the vesper martini cocktail, is a spirit-forward drink known for its defined structure and proportions. Originally introduced in a 1953 literary work, it combines two spirits that are typically shaken and served chilled with minimal garnish, unlike a traditional martini cocktail. The choice to shake rather than stir has become a signature characteristic of the serve, producing a diluted profile that balances the concoction while offering flexibility without compromising texture.

What you’ll need

Ingredients

Serves:
1
  • Gin
    30ml
  • Vodka
    10ml
  • Aromatised wine
    5ml
  • Lemon twist
    For garnish
  • Ice cubes

Method

  1. Step 1

    Add the gin, vodka and aromatised wine into a cocktail shaker filled with ice cubes.

  2. Step 2

    Shake firmly until the drink is properly chilled.

  3. Step 3

    Strain into a chilled martini cocktail glass, garnish with a lemon twist to release citrus oils over the surface and serve.

Tips & Suggestions

  • Avoid crushed ice during shaking as it melts too quickly and dilutes the drink.

  • Do not fill the glass to the brim; leave a small gap at the top to allow lemon oils to settle on the surface without spilling or disrupting the concoction.

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