This is one of those drinks that instantly feels a little special, even if you are just standing in your kitchen in socks. The color alone makes me happy, that deep pinkish red that only blood oranges can give. It’s bold, bright, and just romantic enough without trying too hard.
I started making this cocktail during blood orange season, which conveniently lands right around Valentine’s Day. That timing makes it perfect for a cozy night in, when going out sounds exhausting and mixing something beautiful at home sounds way better.
I wanted a drink that tasted as good as it looked, something citrusy and fresh with just enough bite from the gin. After a few test rounds and a little back-and-forth on flavor balance, this Citrus Tango came together and it has been on repeat ever since.
It’s simple, vibrant, and honestly kind of fun to make. There’s something satisfying about squeezing fresh juice and shaking everything over ice, like you’re creating a small moment instead of just pouring a drink.
If you haven’t used blood oranges much, they are worth seeking out during their short season. Their flavor is less sharp than regular oranges, with a subtle raspberry-like note that makes cocktails taste layered without adding anything artificial.
They also bring that dramatic color naturally, which means you get a stunning drink without food coloring or complicated techniques. I love ingredients that do the work for you, especially when hosting or making something quick.
Because they are seasonal, this cocktail feels a little fleeting in the best way. It becomes something you look forward to making each year, almost like a tradition sneaking up on you.
Cut the blood oranges and lemon in half and juice them fresh. This step matters more than anything else because bottled juice just doesn’t deliver the same brightness or depth.
You should end up with a richly colored juice that already smells incredible. If a little pulp sneaks in, that’s completely fine and even adds texture.
Add the fresh blood orange juice and lemon juice into a cocktail shaker. Pour in the gin and orange liqueur, letting those flavors start to mingle before you even shake.
Add two drops of grapefruit bitters. It doesn’t sound like much, but those tiny drops round everything out and keep the drink from tasting one dimensional.
Fill the shaker with ice and give it a good shake for about 15 to 20 seconds. You want it chilled thoroughly, with just enough dilution to soften the citrus.
This is also the moment where the color turns slightly frothy and vibrant. It’s a small detail, but it makes the final drink feel polished.
Fill a tall glass with crushed ice. Crushed ice works better than cubes because it cools the drink faster and gives it that refreshing, almost sparkling texture.
It also helps the cocktail stay balanced as it slowly melts, which means every sip tastes just right instead of getting too strong.
Strain the shaken mixture over the crushed ice, letting it settle naturally into the glass. The color will glow against the ice, which is part of the charm.
Top with a slice of lemon and a slice of blood orange. Those garnishes are not just decorative, they release aroma while you sip.
This drink hits a balance that can be surprisingly hard to achieve. The sweetness is natural, the tartness keeps it lively, and the gin gives it structure without overpowering the citrus.
Some cocktails feel heavy or overly complex, but this one stays refreshing from start to finish. It’s the kind of drink you can enjoy slowly without getting tired of it.
I also love that it looks impressive while being incredibly approachable. No syrups to cook, no obscure ingredients, just good citrus and a few well-chosen additions.
If you like experimenting, this cocktail is easy to adapt without losing its personality. Swapping small elements can give you a slightly different mood while keeping that citrus-forward feel.
Try using a floral-style gin to highlight the fruitiness, or a more juniper-heavy gin for a sharper edge. Both work, just in different ways.
You can also add a splash of sparkling water for a lighter version. It turns the drink into something closer to a spritz, which is great for daytime gatherings.
For a slightly sweeter twist, a bar spoon of simple syrup can smooth out especially tart oranges. I usually skip it, but it’s nice to have the option.
Another favorite variation is adding a sprig of rosemary as garnish. It adds an herbal aroma that plays beautifully with the gin’s botanicals.
This cocktail shines when paired with a relaxed evening at home. It feels intentional without requiring a full production, which is exactly what I want when planning a low-key date night.
Serve it alongside small desserts or chocolate-based treats. The citrus cuts through richness, making each bite and sip feel balanced.
I also like making a small batch ahead of time when friends are coming over. Juice everything earlier, then shake individual servings so each glass is fresh.
Use clear glasses if you can, just to show off that natural color. Sometimes presentation really is as simple as letting good ingredients speak for themselves.
Whether it’s a celebration or just the end of a long week, this drink brings a little brightness to the table. And honestly, that’s reason enough to make it again tomorrow.
This vibrant Gin and Blood Orange Cocktail—dubbed the Citrus Tango—is a bright, bold, and beautiful drink made with fresh blood orange juice, gin, lemon, Cointreau, and grapefruit bitters. Perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion, it delivers a refreshing balance of citrusy sweetness and botanical depth, all in a stunning pink hue.
Servings 1
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.