James Bond

  • Vesper

    “I never have more than one drink before dinner. But I do like that one to be large and very strong and very cold and very well-made.”

    —James Bond, “Casino Royale”

    The “one drink” that Bond is talking about is the Vesper—named after villain/love interest Vesper Lynd. Made with gin, vodka and Lillet, this martini variation, it is indeed very strong.

    Extra credit info:

    Bond was very particular about the brands used in his drink, … Read more

  • Gifts for the Martini Lover: Stirred, Not Shaken?

    ByThe Barkeep

    James Bond, the epitome of style and sophistication, always insists his martinis should be “shaken, not stirred.” However, that preference may well be a sign of his rebellious nature more than his command of the cocktail. Traditionally, martinis are stirred … and for good reason.

    Many experts dismiss the idea that shaking “bruises the gin.” But they do note that while shaking makes for a colder martini, it also dilutes the martini and gives it … Read more