In Search Of Decent Vermouth

Coincidentally as I was reading Vermouth by Gerard Noel an email from DrinkOn highlighted the Lillet brand of Vermouth, a brand I was unaware of previously -

As 007 fever sweeps the country, (the new Bond gets 10/10 from Drinkon, and not just because of those trunks, either) we thought you might like to know more about our favourite secret agent’s preferred drinks. The cocktail requested by James Bond in Casino Royale, true to the 1953 Ian Fleming novel, is called a Vesper. Named after the beautiful double agent Vesper Lynd with whom Bond falls in love, the Vesper is made as follows:

3 measures Gordon’s gin
1 measure vodka
½ measure Lillet Blanc vermouth
Shake with ice and strain into a deep champagne goblet, or martini glass, and serve with a large thin slice of lemon peel.

According to Vermouth the Lillet vermouth is quite distinctive. Produced in France from Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes (Italian Vermouths use a base of Moscato) from vineyards in Bordeaux and, like the regions wines, the blend changes depending on the years harvest. A red version is also made but from Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.

Lillet Blanc Vermouth is listed by DrinkOn at £14.75. Lillet Rouge is also £14.75.