James Bond has loomed large in the lore of the Martini, but for the most part his legacy has been a drain on the drink, not a boost. Shaken Vodka Martinis tend to be opaque, watery, ice-shard filled flavorless booze bombs. However, before that was 007's signature order, author Ian Fleming gave his hero a more intriguing drink order in his first book Casino Royale: the Vesper. 

"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 drink's my own invention. I'm going to patent it when I think of a good name."

We still think the shaking is questionable advice, but the recipe is solid. Kina Lillet, a predecessor to modern Lillet, was more bitter than the current version, and we've always recommended Cocchi Americano in its place for a more punchy, flavorful, and bitter alternative. In the end, it is a Martini variation that deserves its spot among the greats.

Kit includes: Junipero Gin (750ml), Cocchi Americano Aperitif (375 ml), St George All Purpose Vodka (750 ml)