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John CARR’s Avatar John CARR
31st July at 14:23
Definitely bump up the scotch to 30ml, as per the standard Difford recipe. As Chris says, the blood Orange stands up much better than standard (navel) oranges. Maybe historical oranges were more flavoursome? I can also see the appeal in Ian’s use of Cynar. I had tail end of bottles and added a little punt e mes into the vermouth mix, which was very nice. Current fave is still the “Perfect “ version tho, with its blend of vermouths and cherry brandies.
John CARR’s Avatar John CARR
31st July at 15:07
Couldn’t resist garnishing with a blood Orange wheel. Not sure this is my favourite Blood & Sand, but this serving was very pretty!
Chris Brislawn’s Avatar Chris Brislawn
26th March at 05:06
Blood orange juice contrasts with and stands up to the scotch better than ordinary orange juice, and it gives the drink more of a Sangre De Toro color.
Ian Fenton’s Avatar Ian Fenton
24th August 2023 at 11:49
Today’s I made this with Cynar which I have determined I prefer over vermouth in the Blood & Sand (probably because I am a bitters & amari fiend).

Added two dashes of Peychaud’s. Maybe next time I’ll add a dash of absinthe and end up at a… Bloody Bobby Burns & Sand?
Ian Fenton’s Avatar Ian Fenton
25th August 2023 at 09:27
I did also mean to note that this version, as well as the Difford’s Blood & Sand, are much superior to the original for Scotch lovers, in my opinion. The original excels as a gateway to Scotch for people who don’t like Scotch, though.
Frederic D.’s Avatar Frederic D.
12th February 2023 at 02:21
Skipped the Islay and used my homemade cherry liqueur (2:1 cognac:vodka, cherries, sugar, vanilla), along with Monkey Shoulder and Cocchi Storico. Very nice and layered, with the sweet/tart cherry liqueur and spiced Cocchi really coming together.
Miguel Perales’ Avatar Miguel Perales
30th August 2022 at 21:54
Though a small amount, the Islay Scotch was surprisingly very forward. A fairly balanced cocktail, not too sweet, with the Blood orange coming through at the end.
William Smith’s Avatar William Smith
27th March 2021 at 03:09
Now that was good. The blood orange and the Heering are just what's needed to tame that Islay smoke.