The Real Blood and Sand
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The Real Blood and Sand
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.84 / 5
The Real Blood and Sand is a vibrant and complex cocktail that tweaks the classic Blood and Sand by incorporating tequila. The drink merges the smoky and mature notes of Añejo tequila with the sweetness and tartness of cherry liqueur and orange juice, resulting in a nuanced and rich flavor profile. The addition of red vermouth adds a herbal and slightly bitter counterpoint, creating a well-rounded and harmonious blend. Served in a sleek cocktail glass, The Real Blood and Sand offers a tantalizing mix of flavors and a stylish presentation, making it a modern twist on a time-honored classic. It is garnished with an orange slice to accentuate its citrus notes.
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Cocktail Of The Day
Base ingredient
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Tequila Añejo
Calories
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136 calories
Garnish
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Orange
Alcohol content
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20.04% | 2.3 units *

Cocktail glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

The Real Blood and Sand is a masterful evolution of the classic version, fluently combining the smoky richness of Añejo tequila with the lush sweetness of cherry liqueur and fresh bite of orange juice. The inclusion of red vermouth intricately balances the cocktail, introducing a subtle herbal bitterness that creates a multifaceted and sophisticated drink perfectly suited for those who appreciate a deep, harmonious blend of flavors.

Method
How to make a The Real Blood and Sand

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Combine all ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice and shake hard
Fine strain into a chilled cocktail glass
Garnish with an orange slice and serve

Power tips
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Use freshly squeezed orange juice to ensure the brightest and freshest flavor in your cocktail.
Replace the tequila Añejo with Mezcal for a smokier twist on this classic cocktail, adding complexity.
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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Shake  ·  Strain  ·  Garnish  · 

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Comments

Jen Brown avatar

As someone usually not a fan due to too much sweetness in similar recipes, I found this one pleasantly balanced. The smoky notes of the tequila pair well with the fruity cherry and orange, while the vermouth adds the right herbal depth. Quite enjoyable and refreshing!

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FAQ's

Faq icon

What is the inspiration behind the name 'The Real Blood and Sand'?

The name 'The Real Blood and Sand' is inspired by the classic Blood and Sand cocktail, which itself is named after the 1922 Rudolph Valentino movie of the same name. The original cocktail is known for its unique blend of Scotch whisky, cherry liqueur, sweet vermouth, and orange juice, symbolizing the dramatic themes of the movie. 'The Real Blood and Sand' may be seen as a modern or alternative take on this classic, substituting Scotch with Tequila Añejo for a unique flavor profile.

Faq icon

How does using Tequila Añejo instead of Scotch whisky affect the taste of The Real Blood and Sand?

Using Tequila Añejo in place of Scotch whisky in The Real Blood and Sand significantly alters the cocktail's flavor profile. Tequila Añejo, known for its smooth, rich, and complex flavors with notes of vanilla and oak from aging, brings a warm and nuanced depth to the cocktail. This contrasts the smoky, peaty characteristics often found in Scotch whisky, resulting in a cocktail that is less smoky and potentially more approachable and rounded, with a unique character lent by the tequila's aging process.

Non alcoholic variations icon

Can I make a non-alcoholic version of The Real Blood and Sand?

Yes, you can create a non-alcoholic version of The Real Blood and Sand by substituting the alcoholic ingredients with their non-alcoholic counterparts or similar flavor profiles. For instance, non-alcoholic spirits or aged tequila alternatives can replace the Tequila Añejo. Non-alcoholic red vermouth substitutes are also available, and a cherry syrup can stand in for the cherry liqueur. This way, you preserve the unique flavor combinations of the original cocktail while making it accessible for those who abstain from alcohol.

Food pairings icon

What food pairings would complement The Real Blood and Sand?

The Real Blood and Sand, with its complex and deep flavors, pairs well with a variety of foods. Its rich, sweet, and slightly bitter profile complements savory and umami-rich dishes like grilled steak, barbecue ribs, or roasted vegetables. For a lighter pairing, consider aged cheeses or a charcuterie platter that can balance the cocktail's sweetness with their saltiness and texture. Seafood dishes, such as grilled salmon or shrimp tacos, can also be enhanced by the cocktail's nuanced flavors.

Occasion suitability icon

Is The Real Blood and Sand suitable for all occasions?

The Real Blood and Sand, with its sophisticated flavor and striking appearance, is versatile enough to suit a range of occasions. It's an excellent choice for dinner parties, cocktail hours, or as a sophisticated drink to enjoy by oneself. However, its unique flavor profile and alcohol content may not cater to everyone's taste or be appropriate for every event, such as informal gatherings or events where non-alcoholic beverages are preferred. It is best suited for occasions where its complexity and craft can be fully appreciated.

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