Blood and Sand in a coupe with a reddish color and orange zest

Cocktail

Blood and Sand

How to make a Blood and Sand - the unusual classic of Scotch whisky, cherry brandy, sweet vermouth and orange juice. Fruity, in equal parts.

5 minPrep time
mediumDifficulty
CoupeGlass
1Serving(s)

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Blood and Sand is one of the few cocktails that work Scotch whisky into a fruity composition, and it dates back to 1922. Four ingredients in equal parts make a surprisingly harmonious drink of smoky whisky, sweet cherry liqueur, spicy vermouth and fresh orange juice. A fascinating classic for explorers.

Instructions

  1. Add Scotch whisky, cherry brandy, sweet vermouth and orange juice with ice to the shaker.
  2. Shake hard for about 15 seconds.
  3. Pre-chill a coupe.
  4. Strain the drink into the chilled glass.
  5. Garnish with an orange zest or cocktail cherry.

Garnish: Orange zest or cocktail cherry

Pro tip: Use freshly squeezed orange juice - it makes the decisive difference and provides the freshness needed against the sweet cherry brandy.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the name Blood and Sand come from?

The drink was named after the 1922 bullfighting film of the same name starring Rudolph Valentino. The red color alludes to the theme.

Does the drink really work with Scotch?

Yes, that is the special part. Scotch in a fruity cocktail is unusual, yet the smoky note balances the sweetness surprisingly well.

Can I use a different orange juice?

Freshly squeezed juice is ideal. Blood orange juice fits the theme especially well and intensifies the red color.

Ingredients

  • Scotch whisky2 cl
  • Cherry brandy (cherry liqueur)2 cl
  • Sweet vermouth (Vermouth Rosso)2 cl
  • Fresh orange juice2 cl
  • Ice cubesas needed