The Vesper

Here's to More of James Bond!
My friend tells me you don't get to see as "much" of Daniel Craig in the latest James Bond movie, and I can't help but be disappointed. This Thursday we celebrated the approaching holidays with a batch of Vespers and Casino Royale on DVD. Ever since TNT played "7 nights of 007" (or whatever it was called) over the holidays, and we indulged and watched them all until the commercials drove us up the wall (no DVR back then), Bond -- and the Vesper martini -- gets us in the mood for turkey and pie.

Crisper than a traditional martini, with just a hint of lemon-essence rounding the edges, it's surprisingly unexpected. Like I was hoping Quantum of Solace would be. Sigh. We'll see. I can always turn to Fleming's Quantum of Solace short stories ...

Here's the drink, the music the movie inspired us to listen to (Vespers in the Lounge), and the drink ....

The Inspiration I read Ian Fleming's novel Casino Royale five or six years ago, and have been mixing Vespers ever since. There's that moment at the poker table (I overlook the fact that in the book it's Baccarat) I just love in the movie where 007 orders a vodka martini, then switches to what he names a Vesper. It's such a nod to Ian and it promises viewers that this really is a new kind of Bond. But seriously, who can top Sean ? ~Gary

The Drink The Vesper 2 parks vodka 1 part gin 1/4 oz white Lillet (in the liqueurs section next to the other French stuff) Shake over lots of ice. Strain into a cocktail glass. Add long lemon twist. Hold the poison.

Be smart, safe, and healthy. Drink in moderation. Don't drink and drive. We thank you.

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