This bold, colorful cocktail is a sweet, citrusy blend that packs a punch—and it’s always a hit at parties. The Red Death is a throwback to the 1980s, when bright, boozy drinks ruled the bar scene. With layers of fruit flavor, a smooth finish, and a deep red hue, it’s got just the right mix of fun and flavor.
Red Death
I’ve made this drink countless times, especially for gatherings where I want something festive and easy to serve in batches. It’s a crowd-pleaser that tastes like a grown-up fruit punch—with a kick.
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1 (easily scaled up for a party)
Glass: Highball or hurricane
Ingredients
– 1 oz (30 ml) vodka
– 1 oz (30 ml) Southern Comfort
– 1 oz (30 ml) amaretto
– 1 oz (30 ml) triple sec
– 1 oz (30 ml) sloe gin
– Splash of orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– Splash of lime juice (fresh recommended)
– Ice cubes
How to Make It
- Fill a cocktail shaker about halfway with ice.
- Pour in the vodka, Southern Comfort, amaretto, triple sec, and sloe gin.
- Shake well—about 15–20 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels nice and cold.
- Add a splash of orange juice and lime juice. Shake again briefly to mix.
- Fill a highball or hurricane glass with ice, then strain the cocktail into the glass.
Tip: If you’re using bottled citrus juice, try to go for one with no added sugar to keep the drink from becoming overly sweet.
Make-Ahead Notes
Planning for a party? You can mix everything except the citrus juices ahead of time and keep it chilled in the fridge. Just add the orange and lime juice right before serving to keep things fresh and bright.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but if you’ve made a big batch, store leftovers in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Give it a quick shake or stir before serving again.
Serving Suggestions
The Red Death is a lively drink that goes great with:
- Spicy barbecue: The cocktail’s sweetness balances out smoky, spicy flavors beautifully.
- Dark chocolate: A square of rich, bitter chocolate highlights the drink’s fruity notes.
- Tropical fruit platters: Pineapple, mango, or kiwi make great companions.
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails—this one always brings a smile and a bit of nostalgia when I serve it.
Helpful Tips
- Chill your spirits: Keep your liquor in the fridge if possible—it helps the cocktail stay cold longer.
- Use fresh juice: Especially for the lime, fresh juice adds a clean, zesty edge you won’t get from bottled.
- Shake until icy: When the shaker feels cold in your hands, you’ll know it’s ready.
Ingredient Swaps
Want to mix it up or make do with what’s in your bar?
- Vodka: Try citrus- or berry-flavored vodka for extra fruitiness.
- Sloe gin: No sloe gin? Use a berry liqueur or a splash of grenadine.
- Amaretto: For a non-alcoholic version, almond syrup works in a pinch.
- Orange juice: Grapefruit or blood orange juice adds a fun twist.
Variations
Green Death
– Swap the sloe gin for Midori (melon liqueur)
– Follow the same recipe for a bright green, tropical version
White Death
– Use white cranberry juice instead of orange juice
– Lighter in color, but still full of flavor
Purple Death
– Add a splash of blue curaçao to the original recipe
– Creates a vibrant purple hue with a slightly citrusy bite
Virgin Red Death
– Mix equal parts cranberry juice and orange juice
– Add a splash of lime juice
– Serve over ice for a refreshing, non-alcoholic version
FAQs
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Yes! Multiply the ingredients by the number of guests and mix in a large pitcher or drink dispenser. Just add the citrus juice last and serve over ice.
Is Red Death a strong cocktail?
It sure is. With five types of alcohol, it’s not a light sipper—so enjoy responsibly.
What if I don’t have sloe gin?
Use a berry liqueur or a bit of grenadine. It won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll still taste great.
How do I get the perfect red color?
Balance is key. Sloe gin gives it that deep red hue, but a splash of grenadine can help if you want it more vibrant.
Can I add fruit to the drink?
Absolutely! Muddled raspberries or a slice of orange or lime make it extra festive.
Too sweet for my taste—what can I do?
Cut back a bit on the amaretto and triple sec. You can also add more lime juice or a splash of soda water to tone it down.
This cocktail is a blast from the past that still holds up today—bright, bold, and full of flavor. Whether you’re making one for yourself or a whole pitcher for friends, the Red Death is always a fun choice for a night in or a party vibe.
