VESPER
The Vesper Cocktail is famous for its James Bond connection, being featured in Casino Royale. A Vesper features both vodka and gin along with vermouth. The original called for Kina Lillet, which is no longer available, so a common substitute is Lillet Blanc. I read a suggestion to use Cocchi Americano and this really enhances the drink, in my opinion. The recipe below reflects the proportions of the original Bond cocktail, which provides for larger than usual serving of 4 1/2 ounces. As such, this cocktail is a great reason to employ the “sidecar”, as in the photo.
Recipe
1 oz Vodka
3 oz Gin
1/2 oz Cocchi Americano (or Lillet Blanc or dry vermouth)
Lemon peel garnish
Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Fill the shaker two-thirds full with ice and shake vigorously until thoroughly chilled, 15 seconds. Strain into chilled stem glass and garnish with lemon peel twist.