Lillet

James Bond’s original Vesper Martini called for Kina Lillet, which no longer exists — but Lillet Blanc is its modern descendant, lighter and less bitter. This French aperitif wine is lovely served cold with a slice of orange, and it’s a key ingredient in the Corpse Reviver No. 2. Lillet Rosé, introduced in 2011, works beautifully in spritzes. Keep your bottle refrigerated after opening and use it within a few weeks — it’s wine-based, so it doesn’t last like spirits do.

Last modified on September 24, 2026