Instead of an August Craft Beer review I am sticking with the Rhubarb theme and using the Rhubarb Shrub I made at the beginning of the month to create this Rhubarb Hibiscus Gin and Tonic. I originally was going to review as many rhubarb beers that there were out there… and found only one… the Jackline Rhubarb Grisette by Lighthouse Brewing and I already made mention if it in my Alberta Rhubarb Cake post last spring! So a cocktail is what you will get instead of a Craft Beer Review, and what a cocktail this Rhubarb Hibiscus Gin and Tonic is! If you enjoy a tart, botanical, herbal tasting drink, then this is the drink for you! If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, replace the gin for vodka and tonic for club soda. I personally prefer the punchy pucker up version of this! 

Rhubarb Hibiscus Gin and Tonic

Start by making the Rhubarb Shrub – you can find that recipe here. I’ve made other shrubs before, including the kiwi shrub for my Kiwi Strawberry Cocktail. Shrubs are a vinegar and sugar based concoction that amp up cocktails to a totally new level. I am addicted to making them and I am sure you will see more of them here in the future –  I am thinking maybe a ginger shrub to create a spicy, warm fall cocktail and maybe a cranberry shrub for a festive Christmas cocktail. Anything can happen! Be sure to stay tuned and not miss out on anything that is happening in the Chews and Brews kitchen!

Now, back to the cocktail… Pour one ounce of gin into a glass with ice. Add in 1/2 ounce hibiscus syrup (you can find this at Silk Road or make it yourself), 1/2 ounce of the rhubarb shrub and stir well. Add more ice, top with tonic, stir again, and enjoy!