📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Scotch
Alcohol 13%
Calories 163 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0.3g
Carbohydrates 11g
Prep time 2 minutes
Ready to dive into the world of cocktails with a classic that’s both bold and elegant? The Blood and Sand is a drink that’s been enjoyed for nearly a century, known for its unique blend of scotch, sweet vermouth, cherry liqueur, and orange juice. Together, we’ll explore its storied past, vibrant flavors, and how to perfect this beloved concoction at home. Let’s get mixing and add a splash of history and taste to your glass! ⬇️
History
The Blood and Sand cocktail was first mixed in the roaring ’20s and named after a 1922 movie. It quickly gained popularity among the fashionable crowd of the time. This drink is a testament to the creativity of the Prohibition era.
- The name “Blood and Sand” is inspired by the Rudolph Valentino movie of the same name.
- It’s one of the few classic cocktails that includes scotch as a primary ingredient.
- The cocktail was likely first served in London or New York, reflecting the glamor of the Jazz Age.
The taste of a Blood and Sand?
A sip of Blood and Sand is like a dance of flavors on your tongue, with the smokiness of scotch waltzing with the sweetness of cherry. Its finish is a refreshing citrus twist from the orange juice, leaving your palate intrigued and satisfied.
I personally love a Blood and Sand for its balance of sweet, smoky, and tart flavors. It’s like a delightful symphony in a glass that always hits the right notes.
Interesting facts about Blood and Sand
- Despite its vibrant flavor, the cocktail’s appearance is a muted, dusky rose, much like its namesake film’s dramatic scenes.
- The Blood and Sand is often considered a “gateway” cocktail for those new to the world of scotch.
- It’s remained largely unchanged since its inception, a testament to its timeless appeal.
Ingredients
- Scotch Whisky: 0.75 oz (22ml)
- Sweet Vermouth: 0.75 oz (22ml)
- Cherry Liqueur: 0.75 oz (22ml)
- Orange Juice: 0.75 oz (22ml)
The classic cocktail glass is the best to use when serving a Blood and Sand. The stem keeps your hands from warming the drink, which is best enjoyed cool. Alternatively, a rocks glass can also be suitable, giving a more casual feel to the experience.
Recipe. How to make Blood and Sand
- Pour 0.75 oz (22ml) of Scotch Whisky, 0.75 oz (22ml) of Sweet Vermouth, 0.75 oz (22ml) of Cherry Liqueur, and 0.75 oz (22ml) of Orange Juice into a shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake until well-chilled.
- Strain the mix into your chosen cocktail glass and garnish with an orange peel or cherry.
A Blood and Sand cocktail, like any drink, should be enjoyed in moderation. It’s got sugar from the liqueur and juice, and calories from the alcohol. For a lighter twist, try substituting the liqueur with a natural cherry syrup and use freshly squeezed orange juice.
Food Pairings
Every sip of Blood and Sand can be elevated with the right food companion. Here’s how to turn your sipping into a sumptuous experience:
Smoked Meats
The smokiness of the meats beautifully complements the peaty notes in the scotch, offering an indulgent sensory experience.
Dark Chocolate
Pairing Blood and Sand with dark chocolate brings out the cherry notes in the cocktail, making for a rich and decadent treat.
Spicy Tapas
The cocktail’s sweetness and citrus edge cut through the heat of spicy dishes, cleansing the palate for another flavorful bite.
I find the flavor of Blood and Sand to be a captivating whirlwind, a blend of zest and depth that never fails to delight.
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Bartender Advice
- Always use fresh orange juice for a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
- Balance is key; measure your ingredients carefully to maintain the cocktail’s classic harmony.
- Experiment with different types of scotch to find your perfect match for the cocktail’s smoky base.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Blood and Sand, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Blood and Sand
- Scotch Whisky: Try a smokier Islay scotch for a more intense flavor.
- Sweet Vermouth: Use a drier vermouth for a less sweet and more herbal profile.
- Cherry Liqueur: Swap out for a raspberry liqueur to add a tart twist.
Blood and Sand Variations
Autumn Sand
- Ingredients: Substitute cherry liqueur with apple brandy.
- Recipe: Follow the standard Blood and Sand recipe, replacing the cherry liqueur.
Bloody Rob Roy
- Ingredients: Add a dash of Angostura bitters.
- Recipe: Mix with the traditional ingredients then stir in the bitters for a spiced edge.
The Sandstorm
- Ingredients: Use blood orange juice instead of regular orange juice.
- Recipe: Shake the ingredients as usual, but with the blood orange juice for a tangy kick.
For those who prefer to skip the alcohol, a Virgin Blood and Sand is a refreshing alternative. Just blend equal parts cherry syrup and orange juice, then top with soda water for fizz.
Q&A
Can I use bourbon instead of scotch in a Blood and Sand?
You could, but it would be a different drink. The scotch’s smokiness is a defining characteristic of the Blood and Sand.
Is Blood and Sand a good cocktail for scotch beginners?
Absolutely! The mix of sweet vermouth and cherry liqueur softens the scotch, making it approachable for those new to its flavors.
Can I make a batch of Blood and Sand in advance?
Sure thing! Mix all ingredients without ice and refrigerate. Shake with ice before serving to ensure it’s chilled and well-mixed.
What’s the best way to garnish a Blood and Sand?
A classic orange peel twist or a maraschino cherry complements the drink’s flavors and adds to its allure.
How important is the quality of the orange juice in a Blood and Sand?
Very important. Freshly squeezed orange juice will give a fresher, less processed taste than bottled juice.
Are there any non-alcoholic substitutions for the scotch?
Non-alcoholic spirit alternatives can mimic the depth of scotch, or for a simple option, try a smoky tea syrup.
