A timeless classic with a smoky kick and a splash of citrus, the Blood and Sand is one of those cocktails that surprises you-in the best way. It’s smooth, slightly sweet, and beautifully balanced. If you’ve never tried scotch in a cocktail before, this is a great place to start. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it’s one of my favorite ways to wind down on cool evenings.
Blood and Sand
Ingredients
Makes 1 cocktail | Prep time: 5 minutes
You’ll need:
– 0.75 oz (22 ml) Scotch whisky
– 0.75 oz (22 ml) Sweet vermouth
– 0.75 oz (22 ml) Cherry liqueur (like Heering)
– 0.75 oz (22 ml) Fresh orange juice
– Ice (for shaking)
– Orange peel or maraschino cherry, for garnish
Glass: A classic coupe or cocktail glass works best, but a small rocks glass will do just fine if you prefer a more relaxed presentation.
Method
- Chill your glass. Pop it in the freezer or fill it with ice water while you prep everything else.
- Shake it up. In a cocktail shaker, add the scotch, sweet vermouth, cherry liqueur, and freshly squeezed orange juice.
- Add ice. Fill the shaker about three-quarters full with ice. Cover and shake for about 15 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels cold. You’re aiming for a well-chilled drink with a bit of dilution to round out the flavors.
- Strain and serve. Dump the ice water from your glass if you used that method, then strain the cocktail into the glass.
- Garnish. Finish with an orange peel twist or a cherry. I like using a flamed orange peel for a little extra aroma, but that’s totally optional.
Tips for Success
– Use fresh orange juice-it makes a huge difference. Bottled juice can taste flat or too sweet. Aim for a juicy orange with a bright, citrusy aroma.
– Measure carefully. This cocktail is all about balance. Eyeballing it can throw off the flavor.
– Pick the right scotch. A blended scotch works well here-something not too peaty or smoky. If you’re a fan of bolder flavors, try a mild Islay scotch for more depth.
– Cherry liqueur note: Heering is the classic choice, but any rich, dark cherry liqueur will work. Avoid bright red or artificial-tasting versions.
Make-Ahead & Storage
– Want to prep ahead for a party? Mix the ingredients (without ice) and store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, shake each portion with ice and strain into glasses.
– Leftovers? Not likely-but if you do have extra, keep it chilled and use within a day for the best taste.
Serving Suggestions
This drink feels right at home before dinner or as a nightcap. It pairs well with:
– Smoked meats – The scotch and cherry notes play beautifully with salty, smoky flavors.
– Dark chocolate – A square of 70% cocoa chocolate brings out the richness of the cherry liqueur.
– Spicy tapas – The cocktail’s citrusy sweetness can tame the heat and keep things fresh.
Recipe Variations
Here are a few fun twists if you’re feeling adventurous:
Autumn Sand
– Swap cherry liqueur for apple brandy
– Adds a warm, orchard-like flavor that’s perfect for fall
Bloody Rob Roy
– Add a dash of Angostura bitters
– Adds spice and complexity, great for cooler months
Sandstorm
– Use blood orange juice instead of regular orange juice
– Gives a deeper, tangier citrus flavor and a gorgeous color
Virgin Blood and Sand
– Mix equal parts cherry syrup and fresh orange juice
– Top with soda water for a refreshing, alcohol-free option
Substitutions & Adjustments
– No cherry liqueur? Try raspberry liqueur for a tart variation.
– Too sweet? Use a drier vermouth or reduce the cherry liqueur slightly.
– Want more smoke? Go for a bolder Islay scotch like Laphroaig or Ardbeg.
Common Questions
Can I use bourbon instead of scotch?
You can, but it won’t taste the same. Bourbon is sweeter and lacks the smoky edge that makes this drink unique.
Is this a good cocktail for someone new to scotch?
Definitely. The other ingredients round out the scotch’s bite, making it smooth and approachable.
Can I make this in a big batch?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients and mix in a pitcher. Chill until ready to serve, then shake individual portions with ice.
What’s the best garnish?
I usually go with an orange twist-it adds aroma and looks elegant. A cherry works too, especially if you’re leaning into the sweeter side.
Do I need fancy equipment?
Just a cocktail shaker and a strainer. If you don’t have a shaker, a mason jar with a lid works in a pinch.
A Little Background
The Blood and Sand dates back to the 1920s and was named after a silent film starring Rudolph Valentino. It’s one of the few classic cocktails that uses scotch, which makes it a standout. Despite its dramatic name, the drink is smooth, subtle, and surprisingly easy to enjoy.
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails with you-this one never fails to impress guests. Whether you’re new to cocktails or a seasoned home bartender, the Blood and Sand is a great one to master.
Give it a try, tweak it to your taste, and enjoy every sip. Cheers!
