No ordering the vodka martini, ‘shaken not stirred’ with that signature pronunciation that made this Bond’s drink. Yep, an initial staple of Ian Flemings novels was a gin martini, served with Gordons gin, Vermouth, and a slice of lemon peel – so not a million miles away. So, what was Bond’s preference before this? Well… Gin Martini When it comes to the books however, the vodka martini doesn’t show up until the third novel, Moonraker (1955). Whilst we’re here, if you’ve ever wondered why Bond requests his cocktail shaken, it’s because it aerates the drink, reducing the temperature and diluting the mix slightly. Clear colour, no strong odour – the vodka martini is perfect for a quick, stiff drink whilst keeping a low profile. This partnership has persevered right up until the most recent film, No Time To Die (2021). Where else could we start? The first ‘shaken not stirred’ martini is ordered on board Goldfinger’s private jet in 1964’s Goldfinger, where the splash of vermouth and twist of lemon is joined by Smirnoff Red Label, the world’s bestselling vodka.
