James Bond is known for his sharp suits, cool demeanor, and of course, his signature martini. Ever since Sean Connery first uttered the iconic phrase, “shaken, not stirred,” in Dr. No (1962), Bond’s martini has become a legendary cocktail. But what exactly goes into making the perfect James Bond martini?
If you want to sip your drink like 007, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the classic recipe, variations, and tips to make a martini worthy of a secret agent.
The Classic James Bond Martini Recipe
Bond’s martini isn’t your standard dry martini. It’s called the Vesper Martini, first mentioned in Casino Royale (1953), the novel that started it all. Here’s how you make it.
Ingredients
- 3 ounces gin
- 1 ounce vodka
- ½ ounce Lillet Blanc (or dry vermouth)
- Lemon peel for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a thin strip of lemon peel.
Now, take a sip and enjoy—just like Bond would.
Why Is It Shaken, Not Stirred?
Traditionally, martinis are stirred, not shaken, to maintain clarity and a smooth texture. But Bond prefers his martini shaken, which gives it a colder, slightly more diluted taste with a frothy texture. Some bartenders debate whether shaking “bruises” the gin, but for Bond fans, shaking is the way to go.
Variations of the James Bond Martini
The Classic Dry Martini
If you prefer a more traditional martini, skip the vodka and Lillet Blanc. Instead, mix:
- 2 ½ ounces gin
- ½ ounce dry vermouth
- A dash of orange bitters (optional)
Stir over ice, strain into a martini glass, and garnish with an olive or a lemon twist.
The Dirty Martini
Want a saltier, bolder flavor? Try the dirty martini:
- 2 ½ ounces gin or vodka
- ½ ounce dry vermouth
- ½ ounce olive brine
- Green olives for garnish
Shake (or stir), strain, and enjoy.
The Vodka Martini
Bond occasionally drinks a vodka martini instead of a Vesper. For a simpler version, use:
- 2 ½ ounces vodka
- ½ ounce dry vermouth
Shake or stir, then garnish with a lemon twist or olives.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Best Gin for a James Bond Martini
Bond doesn’t specify a brand in the movies, but top choices include:
- Tanqueray
- Bombay Sapphire
- Beefeater
Best Vodka
For a smooth, premium taste, try:
- Grey Goose
- Belvedere
- Ketel One
Lillet Blanc vs. Dry Vermouth
Lillet Blanc has a slightly fruity, honeyed taste, while dry vermouth is more herbal. For a classic Vesper Martini, stick with Lillet Blanc.
Tips for the Perfect Bond Martini
- Use high-quality ingredients – A martini has only a few ingredients, so every drop counts.
- Shake it properly – Bond’s martini is meant to be ice-cold. Shake it hard for at least 15 seconds.
- Chill your glass – A cold glass keeps your martini crisp and refreshing.
- Don’t overdo the vermouth – A little goes a long way. Too much can overpower the gin and vodka.
- Use fresh garnishes – A lemon twist or olive should be fresh, not dried out or soggy.
The Bond Martini Experience
Drinking a James Bond martini is about more than just taste—it’s about the experience. Whether you’re hosting a Bond movie night, impressing guests, or simply unwinding after a long day, making this cocktail adds a touch of sophistication to any occasion.
And remember, when you take that first sip, say it with confidence: shaken, not stirred.
FAQs
What is the difference between a Vesper Martini and a regular martini?
The Vesper Martini includes both gin and vodka, plus Lillet Blanc instead of dry vermouth. A regular martini typically uses only gin (or vodka) with dry vermouth.
Why does James Bond prefer his martini shaken?
Shaking makes the drink colder and slightly more diluted, which some people prefer. It also gives the drink a frothy texture.
Can I make a Bond martini without Lillet Blanc?
Yes, you can substitute it with dry vermouth, but the taste will be slightly different.
What’s the best garnish for a Bond martini?
Bond uses a lemon peel for his Vesper Martini, but olives work well for other variations.
Is it okay to use all vodka instead of gin?
Yes! A vodka martini is a common alternative, especially if you prefer a smoother, less botanical taste.
How do I chill a martini glass?
Place the glass in the freezer for 10 minutes or fill it with ice water while you prepare the drink.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the Bond martini?
Yes! Use non-alcoholic gin, vodka, and a dry white grape juice instead of Lillet Blanc.
What’s the best way to serve a martini?
Always serve it in a chilled martini glass with a fresh garnish.
How strong is a James Bond martini?
It’s quite strong! With gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc, it has a higher alcohol content than a regular martini.
Can I add bitters to my Bond martini?
Yes! Some people add a dash of orange bitters for extra depth of flavor.
Now that you know how to make the perfect James Bond martini, it’s time to mix one up and channel your inner 007. Cheers!