The Nelson’s Blood No. 2 cocktail is a vibrant and flavorful drink that draws its name from a rather grim, yet legendary, tale of naval history. While the original Nelson’s Blood is a simple mix of Cognac and Ruby Port, this “No. 2” version offers a more contemporary and refreshing take, incorporating citrus and spice for a layered taste experience. This cocktail, while not as widely known as some classics, boasts a rich heritage and complex flavor profile that’s perfect for those seeking something a little different.
A Naval Legend: The Origin of “Nelson’s Blood”
The moniker “Nelson’s Blood” is steeped in nautical lore, harking back to Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson, a celebrated British naval hero. After Nelson’s death at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, legend suggests his body was preserved in a cask of either brandy or rum for the journey back to England. Stories, perhaps embellished over time, recount sailors tapping the cask and drinking the spirit, mixed with a bit of their fallen commander’s blood. While historians suggest Nelson was actually preserved in brandy laced with camphor and myrrh, the dramatic tale of the rum cask has persisted, giving rise to the name “Nelson’s Blood.” The original version of the cocktail, a simple mix of Port and Cognac, likely emerged in British pubs as a tribute to the Admiral.
Nelson’s Blood No. 2: A Contemporary Interpretation
The Nelson’s Blood No. 2 takes the historical concept and reimagines it for the modern palate. Instead of the simple, boozy mix of the original, this version uses a base of navy-strength rum, combined with cranberry, orange, and lime juices, a touch of simple syrup and a dash of Angostura bitters. This blend creates a bright, complex, and more approachable drink than its namesake, while still retaining a link to its historical roots.
Ingredients:
- 45 ml Navy Strength Rum: The strong base spirit that provides the backbone of the cocktail. It adds a robust, maritime flavour.
- 45 ml Cranberry Juice: Introduces a tartness and a deep red hue, reminiscent of the “blood” in the name.
- 20 ml Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: Adds a bright citrus note and a touch of sweetness.
- 20 ml Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice: Provides acidity, balancing the sweetness of the other ingredients.
- 10 ml Simple Syrup: Adjusts the sweetness to achieve the desired balance.
- 2 Dashes Angostura Bitters: Adds complexity and depth with a touch of spice.
- Ice: For chilling the cocktail.
- Lime Wedge: For garnish, enhancing the visual appeal and aroma.
Note: Some recipes may use slightly different measurements for the juices and simple syrup, but the basic proportions remain consistent.
How to make Nelson’s Blood No. 2:
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the navy-strength rum, cranberry juice, orange juice, lime juice, simple syrup, and Angostura bitters.
- Add Ice: Fill the shaker with ice cubes.
- Shake Well: Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 12 seconds to ensure all ingredients are well-chilled and combined.
- Strain: Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
- Garnish: Add a lime wedge for garnish, and perhaps a few mint leaves for additional freshness, if desired.
The Flavour Profile
The Nelson’s Blood No. 2 boasts a rich and layered flavour profile. The navy strength rum provides a strong, slightly spicy base that is beautifully complemented by the tartness of cranberry and the bright notes of orange and lime. The simple syrup provides just a touch of sweetness, while the Angostura bitters bring a layer of complexity and subtle spice. It is a cocktail that is both refreshing and complex, with a satisfying finish.
Why Navy Strength Rum?
The use of navy-strength rum is a key element of the Nelson’s Blood No. 2 cocktail. This high-proof spirit provides a more intense flavour and a boozier kick than standard rums, evoking the maritime history associated with the cocktail’s name. The higher alcohol content also stands up better to the other ingredients, creating a balanced drink with plenty of punch.
Variations and Adaptations
While the recipe described above is the most common version of Nelson’s Blood No. 2, there are some variations. Some may use different types of rum or slightly alter the juice ratios. Here are a few notable variations:
- Pusser’s Rum Version: Some recipes specifically call for Pusser’s Gunpowder Proof Rum, which has a higher alcohol content.
- Adjusted Sweetness: Depending on preference, some might reduce or increase the amount of simple syrup to adjust the sweetness.
- Citrus Tweaks: Some may prefer to use blood orange juice for a slightly different citrus profile.
- Mint Garnish: Fresh mint leaves can be added alongside the lime wedge for an extra burst of freshness and aroma.
Serving Suggestions
The Nelson’s Blood No. 2 is best served in a glass filled with ice. A highball glass or a rocks glass is suitable. The lime wedge adds both visual appeal and an aromatic touch. The bright red hue of the drink makes it visually striking, and it can be a great conversation starter.
Best Time to Enjoy
This cocktail is versatile enough to be enjoyed at various occasions. It is a great choice for a pre-dinner drink, a cocktail hour refreshment, or a nightcap. Its balanced flavours make it suitable for a variety of palates. It pairs well with spicy or rich foods, so it could be a great addition to a barbecue or a tapas-style meal.
The Legacy of Nelson’s Blood
The Nelson’s Blood No. 2 is more than just a cocktail; it’s a tribute to history and a testament to the creativity of mixology. Its name evokes a dramatic past, while the flavors offer a modern twist. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a cocktail aficionado, or simply looking for something new and exciting, the Nelson’s Blood No. 2 is a drink that promises a journey through time with every sip. With its complex flavor profile and intriguing backstory, this cocktail is a must-try for those who appreciate a drink with both character and history.
