Spring is a time for renewal, fresh flavors, and delightful gatherings. One perfect way to celebrate this season is with a refreshing cocktail that embodies the spirit of spring. The Rhubarb Spring Fling is just that—a vibrant and flavorful drink that brings together the tartness of rhubarb, the citrusy kick of grapefruit, and the herbal touch of rosemary, all balanced perfectly with a splash of rum. It’s the ideal cocktail for any spring occasion, whether it’s an outdoor brunch or a casual evening gathering with friends.

Why Make This Recipe

Crafting the Rhubarb Spring Fling is not just about making a cocktail; it’s about embracing the joyful flavors of spring. The unique combination of ingredients offers a refreshing taste that doesn’t overpower the palate but leaves you longing for another sip. Rhubarb has a distinctive tartness that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the simple syrup and the brightness of fresh grapefruit juice. Plus, the fragrant rosemary adds an aromatic complexity that elevates the drink, making it perfect for impressing guests or just indulging yourself.

How to Make Rhubarb Spring Fling

Ingredients:

2 oz white rum
2 oz rhubarb simple syrup
2 oz fresh squeezed grapefruit juice (pink or white)
1 small sprig rosemary (plus 1 for garnish)
Lime wedge for garnish
2 stalks fresh rhubarb (chopped)
1 1/2 cups water
1 cup sugar

Directions:

Remove the leaves from a sprig of rosemary and muddle, or lightly crush them at the bottom of a cocktail shaker. Don’t press too hard—rosemary is a very pungent herb, and you don’t want it to overpower the drink. Add the rum, simple syrup, and grapefruit juice. Fill the shaker with ice, shake well, and strain over fresh ice in a tall glass. Garnish with a lime wedge and a fresh sprig of rosemary.
To make the simple syrup, put the chopped rhubarb, water, and sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
Boil gently for about 10 minutes.
Strain out the rhubarb, and put the syrup back on the stove to reduce a bit further. Boil gently for about 5 to 8 minutes, until the syrup has reduced to about 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 cups.
Let cool and then store in a container with a lid in the refrigerator until ready to use.

How to Serve Rhubarb Spring Fling

Serve the Rhubarb Spring Fling in a tall glass filled with ice, making sure to garnish with a lime wedge and a fresh sprig of rosemary. This bright presentation not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the aromatic experience of enjoying the drink.

How to Store Rhubarb Spring Fling

If you have leftover rhubarb simple syrup, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to two weeks, allowing you to whip up more Rhubarb Spring Fling cocktails at a moment’s notice. However, once the cocktail is mixed, it’s best enjoyed immediately for the freshest taste.

Tips to Make Rhubarb Spring Fling

Adjust the sweetness of the syrup to your preference by adding more or less sugar.
For a more herbal flavor, consider adding an extra sprig of rosemary during the shaking process.
Experiment with different citrus juices like orange or lemon to create your own twist on this refreshing cocktail.

Variation

For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the white rum with sparkling water or tonic. This mocktail variation will still bring the delightful flavors of rhubarb and grapefruit, making it a fantastic option for those who prefer omitted spirits.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen rhubarb for the syrup?
Yes, frozen rhubarb can be used to make the syrup. Just be sure to thaw it beforehand for even cooking.

2. What if I can’t find fresh rhubarb?
If fresh rhubarb is unavailable, you can often find rhubarb compote or preserves, which can also add a lovely flavor to the cocktail.

3. Is it possible to make the syrup ahead of time?
Absolutely! The rhubarb simple syrup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This makes it convenient to whip up a Rhubarb Spring Fling whenever the mood strikes.

Enjoy crafting this delightful cocktail and welcoming the flavors of spring into your home!

Rhubarb Spring Fling

A vibrant and refreshing cocktail that combines tart rhubarb, citrusy grapefruit, and herbal rosemary, perfect for spring gatherings.

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Serving Size servings

Ingredients

For the Rhubarb Simple Syrup

2 stalks fresh rhubarb (chopped)
1.5 cups water
1 cup sugar

For the Cocktail

2 oz white rum
2 oz rhubarb simple syrup
2 oz fresh squeezed grapefruit juice (pink or white)
1 small sprig rosemary (plus 1 for garnish)
1 wedge lime (for garnish)

Instructions

Make the Rhubarb Simple Syrup

Combine the chopped rhubarb, water, and sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
Boil gently for about 10 minutes.
Strain out the rhubarb and put the syrup back on the stove. Reduce further by boiling gently for about 5 to 8 minutes, until the syrup is reduced to about 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 cups.
Let cool and store in a container with a lid in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Prepare the Cocktail

Remove the leaves from a sprig of rosemary and muddle or lightly crush them at the bottom of a cocktail shaker.
Add the rum, rhubarb simple syrup, and grapefruit juice to the shaker.
Fill the shaker with ice, shake well, and strain over fresh ice in a tall glass.
Garnish with a lime wedge and a fresh sprig of rosemary.

Notes

Adjust the sweetness of the syrup to your preference. For a more herbal flavor, consider adding an extra sprig of rosemary during the shaking process. This recipe can be modified to create a non-alcoholic version by replacing the rum with sparkling water or tonic.