James Bond Martini (AKA Vesper, AKA 007 Martini)

In a way this is a repeat post. I've already posted the Vesper with gin, vodka and Lillet blanc. This is the same drink with Tanqueray 10 gin and Ketel One vodka. I had this drink at The Gin Joint in Woodley Park. It is the downstairs bar of the New Heights Restaurant, which is totally devoted to the wondrous variety of gin out there now. They have as many as 150 gins at one time, and the selection rotates, it seems. 

This Vesper was made by bartender Ravi Kukadi, who has a deep love of gin. He changed the recipe a little to include Cocci sweet vermouth. I appreciated the change-up.

Lillet blanc is a sweet Bordeaux wine that is flavored with bitter green oranges from North Africa. It plays well with dry gins like Tanqueray and keeps the drink looking clear. Drinkers nowadays want more richness and flavor, and a sweet vermouth does that in spades if it is Italian. 

• 2 oz. gin 
• 1 oz. vodka
• 1/2 oz. Lillet blanc
• lemon twist

Combine all ingredients except lemon twist in a mixing glass with ice. Stir and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Twist lemon peel over the drink and drop it in.