The Bloody Mary

Written By R U H L

14 December 2025

The Bloody Mary is a common "hair of the dog" drink, reputed to cure hangovers with its combination of a vegetable base to settle the stomach, salt to replenish lost electrolytes, and alcohol to relieve head and body aches. Bloody Mary enthusiasts enjoy some relief from the numbing effects of the alcohol, as well as the placebo effect. Its reputation as a restorative beverage contributes to the popularity of the Bloody Mary in the morning and early afternoon, especially at brunches.

Total time -
Less than 15 minutes

INGREDIENTS -

Serves 4 to 6

  • 4 cups tomato juice

  • Juice of 2 large lemons

  • 1 to 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

  • 2 tablespoons grated horseradish

  • 2 cloves garlic, passed through a garlic press

  • 2 teaspoons coarsely ground pepper

  • 1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce

  • Unflavored vodka to taste, approximately 1 cup

  • Lemon wedges for garnish

  • Celery sticks for garnish

TOOLS -

Highball Glass
Fine grater
Lemon juicer
Garlic press
Ice mallet or heavy spoon
Cocktail shaker

PREPERATION -

  • Wash, peel, and grate horseradish root - use gloves and face mask if you are sensitive to fumes

  • Add ingredients to a container that can be shaken for mixing, then shake aggressively

  • Taste and adjust seasoning to preference

  • Add full, large ice cubes with one part vodka to three parts Bloody Mary mix into a cocktail shaker per serving

  • Shake for about 15 seconds

  • Strain and pour over freshly cracked ice into a sturdy highball glass

  • Squeeze the juice of one quarter lemon wedge (do not mix)

  • Garnish with fresh cracked black pepper, horseradish shards, a lemon wedge, and celery stalk to serve

  • Keep remaining celery stalks for snacking

NOTES -

  • Grey Goose Vodka is preferred for its velvety smooth, clean flavor. Store in the freezer overnight (or indefinitely).

  • Freshly squeezed lemon juice and grated horseradish are key elements. Fresh lemon brings vibrance, superior aroma, and complex taste. Horseradish in a jar is preserved in vinegar, making it tangy, more mild and less potent. Grated horseradish root is sharp and pungent, with a hint of sweetness. A few shards as garnish adds a crunch, and punch to a savory Bloody Mary.

Candle pairing: MMXXVI

R U H L https://ruhl.nyc
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