Vespar Recipe
A Vespar is a refreshing cocktail made with gin, Lillet Blanc, fresh lemon juice, and optionally simple syrup for sweetness. This version emphasizes the gin's botanical flavor balanced with the crispness of lemon and a touch of bitterness from the Lillet Blanc, while the option for simple syrup can make it drier or sweeter depending on preference. Here's how to make this classic cocktail at home.
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Ingredients
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Cocktail
Garnish
Method
Cocktail
Combine ingredients
In a mixing glass or cocktail shaker filled with ice, pour 2 oz Bombay Sapphire gin, 0.75 oz Lillet Blanc, 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice, and 0.25 oz simple syrup if you prefer a touch of sweetness. The simple syrup is optional — omit if you want a drier Vespar.
Shake
Shake vigorously for 12–15 seconds until the outside of the shaker is frosty and well-chilled. This both dilutes and chills the drink to the correct temperature.
Strain
Discard the ice or water from the chilled glass. Double-strain the cocktail into the chilled coupe or martini glass using a Hawthorne strainer and a fine mesh strainer to remove ice shards and any pulp from the lemon juice.
Garnish & Serve
Serve immediately while cold. The Vespar is best enjoyed slightly tapered toward dry and bright; adjust lemon or simple syrup to taste in future batches.