Can I make a large batch for parties?

Absolutely! Planter's Punch is great for batching. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings, mix everything except the club soda in a pitcher, chill, and top each glass with club soda when serving.

Is there a non-alcoholic version?

Yes! Replace the vodka and peach schnapps with peach nectar and extra orange juice for a tasty, kid-friendly mocktail that keeps the fruity flavors front and center.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work perfectly, especially for a frozen daiquiri. They give the drink a thicker, slushier consistency and are a great substitute when fresh berries aren't in season.

What's the best gin to use?

A London Dry gin is traditional, but any quality gin you enjoy will work. Try experimenting with more floral or citrus-forward gins for a twist.

Bloodhound

Name: Bloodhound
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1 serving
Cuisine: Cocktail
Ingredients: 1.5 oz Gin; 0.75 oz Dry vermouth; 0.75 oz Sweet vermouth; 3 pieces Fresh strawberries; 1 cup Ice

The Bloodhound is a vibrant, fruity gin cocktail that delivers a delightful mix of botanical complexity and fresh strawberry sweetness. Its beautiful ruby color and elegant presentation make it a standout at any gathering—perfect for those who appreciate a classic cocktail with a playful twist. With its refreshing flavors and balanced profile, the Bloodhound is the perfect companion for spring and summer evenings.

5 minutesMedium1 serving

Featured

Ingredients

1 serving

Gin
45 ml (1.5 oz)
A classic London Dry gin works best
Dry vermouth
25 ml (0.75 oz)
Adds a crisp, herbal note
Sweet vermouth
25 ml (0.75 oz)
Balances the dry vermouth with a touch of richness
Fresh strawberries
3 pieces
Hulled and quartered for easy muddling
Ice
1 cup
For shaking

Tools Needed

Cocktail shaker
Jigger
Hawthorne strainer
Fine mesh strainer
Muddler
Chilled cocktail glass

Instructions

Add the fresh strawberries to the bottom of a cocktail shaker and muddle thoroughly to release their juice and aroma.
Pour in the gin, dry vermouth, and sweet vermouth.
Fill the shaker with ice, covering the liquid.
Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, until well-chilled.
Double strain the mixture through a Hawthorne strainer and then a fine mesh strainer into a chilled cocktail glass to catch all strawberry bits.

Why You'll Love This Cocktail

Bright, fresh strawberry flavors without being overly sweet
Balanced botanicals from the gin and aromatic complexity from vermouths
Eye-catching color, perfect for impressing guests
A vintage classic that's easy to modernize
Versatile—delicious as a pre-dinner aperitif or a brunch sipper

History & Origin

The Bloodhound cocktail traces its roots to the early 20th century, appearing as early as the 1920s in classic cocktail books like The Savoy Cocktail Book. Originally designed to highlight the flavors of fresh strawberries, gin, and vermouth, it was a favorite among those seeking something light yet sophisticated. Its name is thought to reference the keen, searching nature of the cocktail—a drink that sniffs out and blends together the best flavors of the season.

Garnish

Garnish with a skewered strawberry or a thin strawberry slice on the rim. This adds a pop of color and an aromatic hint of berry with every sip.

Nutrition Info

Approximately 170 calories per serving. Contains alcohol, minimal sugars from vermouth and strawberries, and negligible fat or protein.

Frequently Asked Questions

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