The Perfect Gin Sour: A Blood Orange Cocktail Recipe

Discover the perfect gin sour with this 'Blood Orange Gin Sour' recipe. This elegant blood orange cocktail is a refreshing twist on a classic, combining the tart, bittersweet flavors of blood orange with the bright botanicals of gin. It's an easy-to-make drink that delivers a beautiful, complex flavor profile. This is a modified version of the original cocktail created by our friends at Gastronom Blog, simplified for the home bartender.

The Blood Orange Gin Sour Recipe

This recipe makes one cocktail.

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin (we like @13thcolony)
• .5 oz blood orange juice
• 1 oz El Guapo™ Lemon Cordial
• 2 tbsp aquafaba (viscous liquid inside a chickpea can)
• 3 dashes El Guapo™ Love Potion #9 Bitters
• A slice of dried orange or fresh orange peel, for garnish

Instructions

1. Add all ingredients into a shaker tin.
2. Dry shake for 15 seconds to emulsify the aquafaba and create a frothy texture.
3. Add ice to the shaker and shake again until the mixture is well chilled.
4. Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass.
5. Garnish with a slice of dried orange or a fresh orange peel.

Flavor Profile: Sweet, Tart, and Zesty

This gin sour is a beautifully balanced drink. The gin provides a clean, botanical base, while the blood orange juice offers a vibrant, bittersweet flavor. The El Guapo™ Lemon Cordial adds a zesty, citrus-forward sweetness that perfectly complements the tartness of the blood orange. The bitters introduce a final layer of aromatic spice, and the aquafaba creates a luxurious, silky foam that is visually stunning and adds to the cocktail's smooth texture.

Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo’s homepage to explore everything we offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a gin sour?

A gin sour is a cocktail that combines gin, a citrus juice (typically lemon or lime), and a sweetener. The drink's name comes from its signature balance of sweet and sour flavors, often with a frothy texture from egg white or a substitute like aquafaba.

What does a blood orange cocktail taste like?

A blood orange cocktail has a flavor profile that is both sweet and tart, with a hint of raspberry-like bitterness. The blood orange provides a deeper and more complex citrus flavor than a standard orange, making it a favorite for sophisticated drinks.

What is aquafaba and can I make this cocktail without it?

Aquafaba is the liquid from a can of chickpeas. It is a popular vegan substitute for egg white in cocktails because it creates a similar frothy, silky foam when shaken. You can make the cocktail without it, but you will miss the luxurious texture.

Can I substitute blood orange juice?

While fresh blood orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, you can substitute it with a combination of orange juice and a dash of cranberry juice to mimic its color and bittersweet notes.