Blood & Sand: A Classic with a Flaming Twist
Scotch-based cocktails may not be the easiest to love at first sip—but when one works, it works. Enter the Blood & Sand: a smoky, sultry, and ever-so-slightly sweet cocktail that feels like a movie star in a glass. It’s bold, balanced, and just dramatic enough to earn its name.
We first fell for this drink when a legendary bartender—King Cocktail himself, Dale DeGroff—lit up our bar (literally) at Commander’s Palace. One night at the bar, he showed general manager Steve Woodruff the art of flaming an orange peel: a move that turns any cocktail moment into theater. A quick twist, a flick of flame, and suddenly the drink is bathed in citrus oils and sparkles of fire. Unforgettable.
Want to make one yourself? It’s easier than you think—and twice as impressive when served in our Wave Coupe Glasses. Shake it up with our Commander's Palace Pewter Jigger, handmade in Italy and the perfect piece for measuring with style.
Blood & Sand
Makes 1 cocktail
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¾ oz Scotch
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¾ oz Cherry Heering
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¾ oz Italian sweet vermouth
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¾ oz orange juice
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Flamed orange peel (optional, but highly encouraged)
Combine the Scotch, Cherry Heering, vermouth, and orange juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake with confidence (you’re in charge here), then strain into a chilled glass. For the finale, flame an orange peel over the top—just like Dale taught us.
Whether you’re serving this at a cocktail party or sipping solo with your favorite jazz album on, the Blood & Sand makes any moment feel special.
Ready to channel your inner mixologist?
Grab your Pewter Jigger and Wave Coupe Glasses from the Commander's Collection and get shaking. Don’t forget the flame!
