Nelson’s Blood is one of those cocktails that feels like a story in a glass—bold, warming, and packed with history. It’s a rich mix of dark rum and port, with just the right touch of citrus and sweetness to keep things balanced. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it’s become a favorite for cozy evenings or when I want something a little special with friends.
Nelson's Blood
Let’s walk through how to make this classic cocktail, plus some fun ways to make it your own.
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: A short tumbler or snifter works great
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) dark or aged rum
– 1 oz (30 ml) ruby port
– ½ oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
– ½ oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– 1 dash Angostura bitters
– Lemon twist, for garnish
– Ice
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the rum, port, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well—about 15 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into a tumbler filled with fresh ice.
- Add a dash of bitters on top.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon peel.
Tip: Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled works in a pinch, but fresh gives it that bright, clean finish.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the rum, port, and syrup ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. Just add lemon juice and bitters when you’re ready to serve so everything tastes fresh.
Storage
If you’ve pre-mixed a batch (without lemon and bitters), it’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days in a sealed container. Give it a good stir before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Nelson’s Blood is a great after-dinner drink. The richness of the rum and port makes it feel a bit luxurious—like something you’d sip slowly while catching up with friends or winding down after a long day.
Here are a few of my favorite pairings:
- Grilled Steak: The smoky char of a steak brings out the depth of the rum and port.
- Dark Chocolate: A square or two of 70% cocoa chocolate is perfect. It echoes the richness of the drink.
- Aged Cheeses: Think sharp cheddar or gouda. Their saltiness plays nicely with the cocktail’s sweetness.
Behind the Drink
This cocktail gets its name from Admiral Horatio Nelson, a legendary British naval officer. There’s a wild tale that after he died in battle, his body was preserved in a cask of rum for the journey home. Sailors supposedly snuck sips from the cask—hence the nickname “tapping the admiral.” Whether fact or folklore, it gives this drink a sense of history that makes each sip feel a little more meaningful.
Tips & Tricks
- Use a dark or aged rum for a smoother, richer flavor. Spiced rum works well too if you like a little extra warmth.
- Adjust the simple syrup to taste. Like it less sweet? Start with just a splash.
- Bitters are strong—go easy. One dash is plenty.
- Want to cut back on sugar? Use a sugar-free syrup or a touch of honey instead.
Variations
I thought I’d share one of my favorite spins on this drink—it’s a fun way to change things up depending on your mood or the season.
Caribbean Blood
– Swap the port for pineapple juice
– Use coconut rum for a tropical vibe
– Garnish with a pineapple wedge or mint
Admiral’s Spice
– Infuse your rum with a cinnamon stick and a few cloves
– Adds a warm, cozy feel—great for fall or winter
Blood & Sand-Inspired
– Add ½ oz cherry brandy and ½ oz sweet vermouth
– Shake with the other ingredients and strain into a chilled coupe
Non-Alcoholic Version (Virgin Nelson’s Blood)
– 2 oz (60 ml) grape juice
– ½ oz (15 ml) lemon juice
– Splash of ginger ale
– Dash of bitters (optional)
– Serve over ice with a lemon twist
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh is best, but bottled works if it’s all you’ve got. Just check the label—avoid anything with preservatives or added sugar.
What kind of rum is best?
A dark or aged rum gives the drink depth and smoothness. Spiced rum adds warmth if you like a little kick.
Is this cocktail sweet?
It’s lightly sweet, thanks to the port and syrup, but the lemon and bitters balance it out.
Can I make this for a party?
Yes! Mix everything except the lemon juice and bitters in advance. Add those just before serving to keep the flavors bright.
What can I use instead of rum?
Try a rum-flavored syrup or a strong black tea (like lapsang souchong) for a non-alcoholic twist.
Seasonal ideas?
In fall, add a splash of apple cider. For summer, lighten it up with extra lemon juice and a sprig of mint.
—
Whether you’re drawn in by the story behind it or just love a well-balanced, rich cocktail, Nelson’s Blood delivers every time. It’s one of those drinks that invites conversation—both for its flavor and its history. Try it out, tweak it to your taste, and enjoy the journey in every glass.
