Paul Kushner
The Blood Orange Rum Sour brings color and punch in every pour. With deep citrus and smooth rum, it hits that perfect sweet-tart balance without trying too hard. The bold red-orange hue turns heads, but the flavor is what keeps the glass from sitting full for long. It’s got that laid-back tropical edge with a sharp twist, made for slow sipping or quick rounds with friends. Shake it up, serve it over ice, and let the drink do the talking. The Blood Orange Rum Sour isn’t here to blend in it’s here to show up and steal the moment.
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Tasting Notes
The Blood Orange Rum Sour is a rich, citrus-forward cocktail with a velvety texture and tropical twist. Rum lays down a warm, slightly sweet base, while lemon juice adds sharp acidity to balance the sweet and vibrant blood orange cordial. Egg white provides a creamy, foamy top that makes each sip smooth and luxurious. Garnished with a bright slice or twist of blood orange, this drink is both eye-catching and refreshingly complex.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a cocktail shaker for dry and wet shaking, a jigger for measuring, and a fine mesh strainer for a clean, frothy finish. Serve in a chilled coupe or martini glass to highlight the elegant foam and vivid color.
Ingredients
- 2 oz rum
- 3/4 oz lemon juice
- 3/4 oz blood orange cordial
- 1/2 oz egg white
- Blood orange peel or blood orange slice, for garnish
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients (rum, lemon juice, blood orange cordial, and egg white) in a cocktail shaker without ice.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake again for another 15 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Garnish with a twist of blood orange peel or a slice of blood orange on the rim.
Pro Tips
- Use a reverse dry shake (wet shake first, then dry shake) for even more foam volume.
- For added depth, use aged rum for notes of vanilla and spice.
- Chill your glass in advance to keep the foam structured longer.
- Garnish with a few drops of blood orange syrup or bitters on the foam for an artistic touch.
When to Serve
Ideal for the peak of winter citrus season, festive brunches, cozy dinner parties, or whenever you’re craving a bold yet well-balanced cocktail, this sour delivers a luxurious experience from the first sip to the last. Its rich texture and vibrant citrus profile make it both comforting and invigorating. Whether you’re hosting an intimate evening or planning a themed celebration, it’s a striking choice that feels both indulgent and refined. With its eye-catching color and smooth finish, it also serves beautifully as a signature drink for Valentine’s Day, tropical soirées, or any occasion that calls for something memorable and full of flavor.
Recommended Brands to Use
- Rum: Plantation 3 Stars (white) or Mount Gay Eclipse (aged)
- Blood orange cordial: Liber & Co. or homemade with juice, zest, and sugar
- Lemon juice: Always freshly squeezed
- Egg white: Use fresh or pasteurized for best foam and safety
Similar Cocktails
- Blood Orange Amaretto Sour
- Blueberry Jam Sour
- Pomegranate Whiskey Sour
- Plum Vodka Sour
- Apple Vodka Sour
Ingredients
- 2 oz rum
- 3/4 oz lemon juice
- 3/4 oz blood orange cordial
- 1/2 oz egg white
Instructions
Dry Shake:
- Combine all ingredients (rum, lemon juice, blood orange cordial, and egg white) in a cocktail shaker without ice.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
Wet Shake:
- Add ice to the shaker and shake again for another 15 seconds until well chilled.
Strain and Serve:
- Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
Garnish (Optional):
- Garnish with a twist of blood orange peel or a slice of blood orange on the rim.
