Blood and Sand Cocktail Recipe – Scotch, Orange & Cherry Balance

The Blood and Sand is a cocktail with drama, history, and flavor all in one glass. First created in the 1920s and named after Rudolph Valentino’s hit silent film Blood and Sand, this drink stands out as one of the few classic recipes to feature Scotch whisky. Blended with sweet vermouth, cherry liqueur, and fresh orange juice, it strikes a rare balance of smoky, sweet, and citrusy. In this post, we’ll guide you through the authentic recipe, share tips on selecting the right Scotch and liqueurs, and show you how to garnish it for maximum elegance. Bold, complex, and with a story as rich as its flavor, the Blood and Sand remains a hidden gem in the world of cocktails.

9/4/20251 min read

📖 Ingredients (1 serving):

¾ oz Scotch whisky (a blended Scotch works best; save the heavy single malts for sipping)
¾ oz sweet vermouth
¾ oz Heering cherry liqueur (or another quality cherry brandy)
¾ oz fresh orange juice
Ice

🍒 Garnish:

Orange peel twist
Optional: brandied cherry

🛠️ Equipment Needed:

Cocktail shaker
Jigger or measuring tool
Fine mesh strainer (optional, for smoother texture)
Coupe or cocktail glass

🍹 Instructions:

Chill the glass – Place your coupe or cocktail glass in the freezer while mixing.
Combine ingredients – In a cocktail shaker, add:
- ¾ oz Scotch whisky
- ¾ oz sweet vermouth
- ¾ oz cherry liqueur
- ¾ oz fresh orange juice
Shake well – Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds.
Strain and serve – Double strain into your chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
Garnish – Express the oils of an orange peel over the glass, twist, and drop it in. Optionally, add a cherry for a touch of sweetness.

✨ Tips for the Perfect Blood and Sand:

Balance is key – This drink can easily become too sweet if you use sugary cherry liqueurs or concentrate-style orange juice. Always use fresh-squeezed orange juice.
A light blended Scotch keeps the drink smooth, while smoky Scotch can overpower the other flavors.
Adjust sweetness: If it tastes too rich, use a splash less cherry liqueur and a touch more orange juice.

✅ Flavor Profile:

The Blood and Sand is smoky, fruity, and complex. The Scotch gives it body, while the vermouth and cherry liqueur add richness, and the orange juice lifts everything with bright acidity.