vesper martini james bond casino royale

The Vesper Martini, a drink that has become synonymous with the suave and sophisticated James Bond, was first introduced in Ian Fleming’s novel “Casino Royale.” This iconic cocktail has since been immortalized in the film adaptations of the Bond series, particularly in the 2006 movie “Casino Royale” starring Daniel Craig. The Vesper Martini is not just any drink; it is a symbol of Bond’s refined taste and his penchant for the finer things in life.The Origin of the Vesper MartiniThe Vesper Martini was created by Ian Fleming himself, who named the drink after Vesper Lynd, the female lead in “Casino Royale.” In the novel, Bond describes the drink to the bartender as follows:“Three measures of Gordon’s, one of vodka, half a measure of Kina Lillet.

casino royale drink

In the world of James Bond, few things are as iconic as the drinks he orders. One of the most famous of these is the Vesper Martini, which was introduced in Ian Fleming’s first Bond novel, “Casino Royale.” This drink has since become synonymous with sophistication and intrigue, making it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts and Bond aficionados alike.

The Origin of the Vesper Martini

The Vesper Martini was created by Ian Fleming himself, who named the drink after Vesper Lynd, the female lead in “Casino Royale.” In the novel, Bond describes the drink to the bartender at the Casino Royale in Montenegro:

“Three measures of Gordon’s, one of vodka, half a measure of Kina Lillet. Shake it very well until it’s ice-cold, then add a large thin slice of lemon peel. Got it?”

This precise recipe has been a topic of much discussion and experimentation among mixologists and Bond fans.

Ingredients for the Vesper Martini

To recreate the Vesper Martini at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 3 measures of Gordon’s Gin: Gordon’s is a classic London dry gin, known for its juniper-forward flavor.
  • 1 measure of Vodka: Use a high-quality vodka, preferably a neutral one to avoid overpowering the gin.
  • Half a measure of Kina Lillet: Kina Lillet is a fortified wine that has been discontinued. However, you can substitute it with regular Lillet Blanc, which is sweeter, and add a dash of Pernod or Absinthe to replicate the original’s bitterness.
  • Lemon Peel: For the garnish, a large thin slice of lemon peel is essential.

How to Make the Vesper Martini

  1. Gather Your Ingredients: Ensure you have all the ingredients and a cocktail shaker.
  2. Measure Accurately: Use a jigger to measure the gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc precisely.
  3. Shake: Fill the cocktail shaker with ice and add the measured ingredients. Shake vigorously until the mixture is ice-cold.
  4. Strain: Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
  5. Garnish: Express the oils from the lemon peel over the drink and then drop the peel into the glass.

Tips for the Perfect Vesper Martini

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh lemon peel for the garnish.
  • Chill Your Glass: Pre-chill your martini glass to keep the drink cold.
  • Experiment with Substitutes: If you can’t find Kina Lillet, experiment with different ratios of Lillet Blanc and Pernod or Absinthe to find the balance you prefer.

The Legacy of the Vesper Martini

The Vesper Martini has transcended its literary origins to become a staple in the world of cocktails. Its unique blend of gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc offers a complex flavor profile that is both refreshing and intriguing. Whether you’re a Bond fan or simply appreciate a well-crafted cocktail, the Vesper Martini is a drink that deserves a place in your repertoire.

The Vesper Martini is more than just a drink; it’s a piece of literary and cinematic history. With its precise recipe and sophisticated taste, it captures the essence of James Bond’s world. So, the next time you find yourself in a casino or simply want to indulge in a bit of Bond-style luxury, raise a glass to the Vesper Martini and savor the legend.

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casino royale imdb trivia

“Casino Royale,” the 2006 film starring Daniel Craig as James Bond, is a reboot of the iconic spy series. The film is filled with interesting facts and behind-the-scenes trivia that even the most dedicated fans might not know. Here are some fascinating tidbits from the IMDb page of “Casino Royale.”

Casting and Characters

  • Daniel Craig’s Casting Controversy: When Daniel Craig was announced as the new James Bond, there was significant backlash from fans. Many believed he was too blonde and lacked the suave demeanor of previous Bonds. Craig proved his detractors wrong by delivering a critically acclaimed performance.
  • Eva Green’s Audition: Eva Green, who played Vesper Lynd, initially turned down the role three times. She finally accepted after the director, Martin Campbell, convinced her that the character was more than just a typical Bond girl.
  • M’s New Look: Judi Dench’s character, M, was given a more prominent role in this film. Her character was also updated to reflect a more modern, no-nonsense approach to leadership.

Filming Locations

  • Czech Republic: The film’s opening scenes were shot in the Czech Republic, including the famous Charles Bridge in Prague.
  • Bahamas: The Bahamas served as a key location for several scenes, including the beachfront hotel where Bond stays.
  • Italy: The climactic poker game was filmed in the historic Villa del Balbianello in Lake Como, Italy.

Behind the Scenes

  • Poker Game Realism: The poker scenes were meticulously researched to ensure they were as realistic as possible. Professional poker player and author, Anthony Holden, was brought in as a consultant.
  • Bond’s First Kill: The film marks the first time in the Bond series where 007 is shown killing someone in cold blood. This was a deliberate choice to show Bond’s darker, more ruthless side.
  • Title Sequence: The title sequence, designed by Daniel Kleinman, features a unique animation style that incorporates the film’s themes of gambling and chance.

Technical Details

  • Budget and Box Office: The film had a budget of \(150 million and grossed over \)600 million worldwide, making it a commercial success.
  • Awards and Nominations: “Casino Royale” received numerous awards and nominations, including an Oscar nomination for Best Sound Editing.
  • Special Effects: The film’s special effects were handled by Double Negative, the same company responsible for the visual effects in “Inception” and “Interstellar.”

Fun Facts

  • Bond’s First Martini: In this film, Bond famously orders his first “Vesper” martini, named after Vesper Lynd. The drink is a mix of gin, vodka, and Kina Lillet.
  • Car Chase: The car chase scene involving Bond’s Aston Martin DBS and a convoy of Alfa Romeos was one of the most expensive car chase scenes ever filmed at the time.
  • Bond’s Catchphrase: The film introduces a new catchphrase for Bond: “The name’s Bond… James Bond.” This was a nod to the original introduction from the first Bond film.

“Casino Royale” is more than just a thrilling spy film; it’s a rich tapestry of behind-the-scenes stories, technical achievements, and memorable moments that have cemented its place in the James Bond canon.

vesper martini james bond casino royale - FAQs

How does James Bond describe the Vesper Martini in Casino Royale?

In 'Casino Royale,' James Bond famously describes the Vesper Martini as 'shaken, not stirred, with a twist of lemon peel.' He specifies the ingredients as three measures of Gordon's gin, one measure of vodka, and half a measure of Kina Lillet. Bond emphasizes the importance of chilling the glass beforehand and using a large, chilled glass. This iconic drink, named after Vesper Lynd, symbolizes the sophistication and precision that Bond embodies, making it a memorable part of the film and a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.

What is the Vesper Martini recipe used by James Bond in Casino Royale?

The Vesper Martini, as famously ordered by James Bond in Casino Royale, is a sophisticated cocktail made with three ingredients: Gordon's gin, vodka, and Kina Lillet. To prepare, combine 60ml of Gordon's gin, 15ml of vodka, and 7.5ml of Kina Lillet in a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously until well-chilled, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a lemon twist to enhance the citrus notes. Bond's precise instructions emphasize the importance of the ingredients' quality and the method of preparation, making the Vesper Martini a true classic.

How does the Vesper Martini symbolize the character of James Bond in Casino Royale?

The Vesper Martini in 'Casino Royale' symbolizes James Bond's character through its complexity and sophistication. Named after Vesper Lynd, the drink reflects Bond's refined taste and his emotional entanglement with her. The recipe's precision, requiring specific ingredients and a unique method, mirrors Bond's meticulous nature and high standards. The drink's creation, described in detail, underscores Bond's attention to detail and his ability to appreciate the finer things in life. Ultimately, the Vesper Martini serves as a metaphor for Bond's character: a blend of strength, elegance, and a touch of vulnerability.

What was the method of poisoning in Casino Royale?

In 'Casino Royale,' the method of poisoning involves a poisoned martini, famously known as the 'Vesper.' James Bond orders a vodka martini, shaken not stirred, but the drink is laced with poison by the antagonist Le Chiffre. The poison causes Bond to suffer severe pain and nearly die, but he is ultimately saved by Vesper Lynd. This iconic scene highlights the danger and intrigue that Bond faces, making it a pivotal moment in the film.

How does the Vesper Martini symbolize the character of James Bond in Casino Royale?

The Vesper Martini in 'Casino Royale' symbolizes James Bond's character through its complexity and sophistication. Named after Vesper Lynd, the drink reflects Bond's refined taste and his emotional entanglement with her. The recipe's precision, requiring specific ingredients and a unique method, mirrors Bond's meticulous nature and high standards. The drink's creation, described in detail, underscores Bond's attention to detail and his ability to appreciate the finer things in life. Ultimately, the Vesper Martini serves as a metaphor for Bond's character: a blend of strength, elegance, and a touch of vulnerability.

What was the method of poisoning in Casino Royale?

In 'Casino Royale,' the method of poisoning involves a poisoned martini, famously known as the 'Vesper.' James Bond orders a vodka martini, shaken not stirred, but the drink is laced with poison by the antagonist Le Chiffre. The poison causes Bond to suffer severe pain and nearly die, but he is ultimately saved by Vesper Lynd. This iconic scene highlights the danger and intrigue that Bond faces, making it a pivotal moment in the film.

What is the iconic drink ordered by Vesper in Casino Royale?

In 'Casino Royale,' Vesper Lynd orders an iconic drink: a Vesper Martini. This unique cocktail, created by James Bond, consists of three parts Gordon's gin, one part vodka, and half a part Kina Lillet. It is shaken until ice-cold and garnished with a lemon peel. The Vesper Martini is a sophisticated blend that highlights Bond's refined taste and sets the tone for his character's elegance and intrigue.

What are the clues for the Casino Royale-themed crossword game?

In a Casino Royale-themed crossword, clues often revolve around James Bond, gambling, and the film's plot. Expect hints related to Bond characters like 'M' and 'Vesper Lynd,' iconic phrases like 'Bond, James Bond,' and gambling terms such as 'roulette' and 'poker.' Thematic clues might include '007's mission' or 'Bond's martini preference.' These clues blend the intrigue of espionage with the excitement of casino games, making for a thrilling crossword experience.

What is the iconic drink ordered by Vesper in Casino Royale?

In 'Casino Royale,' Vesper Lynd orders an iconic drink: a Vesper Martini. This unique cocktail, created by James Bond, consists of three parts Gordon's gin, one part vodka, and half a part Kina Lillet. It is shaken until ice-cold and garnished with a lemon peel. The Vesper Martini is a sophisticated blend that highlights Bond's refined taste and sets the tone for his character's elegance and intrigue.

What drink does James Bond order in Casino Royale?

In 'Casino Royale,' James Bond famously orders a Vesper Martini, a drink he personally names after Vesper Lynd. The recipe includes three measures of Gordon's gin, one measure of vodka, half a measure of Kina Lillet, and a lemon twist. Bond's precise instructions are to shake it very well until it's ice-cold, then strain it into a chilled cocktail glass. This iconic drink reflects Bond's sophisticated taste and sets the tone for his character's elegance and attention to detail.