The Merchant's Bloody Flame: A fiery, citrusy take on the Bloody Mary

A fiery, citrus-forward reinvention of the classic Bloody Mary, infused with the bold character of our Merchant's Flame gin. This cocktail captures the spirit of global spice routes, coastal citrus groves, and smoky markets. It's approachable enough for brunch but layered enough to shine at golden hour.

Recipe:

• 50 ml Wildfire's Merchant's Flame gin
• 100 ml premium tomato juice
• 15 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 10 ml fresh blood orange juice (or substitute: 2 parts orange juice, 1 part raspberry juice)
• 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce
• 2 dashes hot sauce (adjust to taste - we recommend a smoky chili variety)
• Pinch of smoked paprika
• Pinch of freshly ground long pepper (or black pepper if unavailable)
• Pinch of flaky sea salt
• Celery stalk, half-slice dried blood orange, and cherry tomato for garnish

Instructions:

• Rim a tall highball or stemless wine glass with smoked sea salt (optional). Fill with ice and set aside. In a shaker (no ice), combine all ingredients and roll between shaker tins (i.e., pour back and forth) to gently integrate without diluting. Strain over the ice-filled glass.

Tasting Notes:

• Zest & Brightness: From the blood orange and lemon - citrusy and fresh.
• Savory Depth: Tomato and Worcestershire lend umami.
• Warm Spice: Long pepper adds a unique, almost floral heat without overwhelming.
• Smoky Whisper: Smoked paprika and the gin's botanicals wrap it all together.

Pro Tip:

• Pro Tip: Pair this with grilled prawns, shakshuka, or a smoked mushroom toastie for an elevated brunch or early evening snack.

This isn’t just brunch. It’s a bold, blood-orange-bright exploration. 🌶️🍅🔥