Blood and Sand

Pro tips

• Stir with ice for exactly 10-15 seconds to achieve proper dilution and temperature without over-watering the drink.
• Use fresh orange juice, not concentrate or bottled—the brightness is essential to balance the vermouth and cherry liqueur.
• Chill your coupe glass with ice water for 30 seconds before straining to maintain the cocktail's temperature.
• Taste as you build: the cherry brandy and vermouth ratio can be adjusted slightly based on your preferred sweetness level.

Substitutions

• Cherry-flavored brandy → cherry liqueur or cherry curaçao (maintains sweetness and color)
• Sweet vermouth → dry vermouth (reduces sweetness; use sparingly or add 1/4 oz simple syrup to compensate)
• Blended Scotch → Islay Scotch (increases smokiness; recommended for advanced palates)
• Orange juice → fresh lemon juice (1/3 oz) + orange juice (1/6 oz) for added citric brightness

Storage & make-ahead

Cocktails are meant to be consumed immediately after preparation. Pre-batched mixtures can be refrigerated covered for up to 4 hours before serving.

Equipment

cocktail shaker or mixing glass · bar spoon · jigger or measuring tool · coupe or cocktail glass · citrus juicer (for fresh orange juice)

What type of Scotch works best in a Blood and Sand?

A softer blended Scotch or single-malt is ideal for beginners. For a bolder drink, substitute an Islay Scotch for a smokier profile that pairs surprisingly well with the cherry and vermouth.

Can I make a Blood and Sand without cherry brandy?

Cherry liqueur or cherry curaçao can substitute for cherry-flavored brandy. Kirsch is less ideal due to its dryness, but works in a pinch with slightly less vermouth.

Why is it called the Blood and Sand?

The drink takes its name from the 1922 Rudolph Valentino film of the same title. The name also references the red and brown colors of the ingredients—blood-red cherry and sand-colored Scotch.

How should a Blood and Sand be served?

Serve up (without ice) in a coupe or cocktail glass. Stir with ice for 10-15 seconds, then strain to achieve a silky texture and proper dilution.

Can I batch a Blood and Sand for a party?

Yes. Multiply the recipe by the number of drinks needed, combine in a pitcher, and store covered in the refrigerator up to 4 hours before serving over ice or strained into glasses.