Rhubarb Vodka Recipe | A Flavoured Spirit with a Seasonal Twist

Introduction: A Boozy Way to Celebrate Rhubarb Season

Rhubarb vodka is a brilliantly simple yet elegant way to capture the tart, fruity flavour of rhubarb in a smooth, sippable spirit. It’s perfect for cocktails, spritzes, or sipping over ice. Whether you’re making it as a gift or for your own drinks cabinet, rhubarb vodka is a rewarding project that requires just a few ingredients and a bit of patience.

Why You’ll Love Rhubarb Vodka

Easy to Make – Just combine, shake, and wait
Beautiful Colour – Infuses to a blush pink or deep rose hue
Unique Flavour – Tart, fruity, and perfect for spring and summer cocktails
Great Gift Idea – Bottle it up for birthdays, garden parties, or Christmas hampers

Ingredients

500g fresh rhubarb, chopped
250g caster sugar
750ml bottle of good quality vodka (doesn’t need to be top-shelf)
Optional: zest of ½ a lemon or a piece of fresh ginger for extra flavour

How to Make Rhubarb Vodka – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Rhubarb

Rinse and chop the rhubarb into small pieces.
There’s no need to peel it — the skin helps create that vibrant pink colour.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

Add the chopped rhubarb and sugar to a large sterilised jar or bottle.
Pour the vodka over the top to cover the rhubarb completely.
Add lemon zest or ginger if using for a flavour boost.

Step 3: Infuse

Seal the jar tightly and give it a good shake.
Store in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks, ideally 3–4 weeks.
Shake every couple of days to help dissolve the sugar and infuse the flavour.

Step 4: Strain and Bottle

Once the vodka has turned a beautiful pink and the flavour is strong enough, strain the mixture through a fine sieve or muslin.
Pour the filtered vodka into clean, dry bottles and seal tightly.
Label and date your bottles for gifting or storage.

Serving Suggestions

On the Rocks – Serve over ice with a slice of lemon or lime
Rhubarb Vodka & Tonic – A fruity alternative to a G&T
Rhubarb Martini – Mix with elderflower liqueur and a splash of lemon juice
Spritz it Up – Combine with soda water, Prosecco, or lemonade for a refreshing drink

Storage Tips

Store in a cool, dark place or in the fridge
Best enjoyed within 6 months for optimum flavour
Flavour may deepen or mellow slightly over time

Flavour Variations

Rhubarb & Ginger Vodka – Add a few thin slices of fresh ginger
Rhubarb & Strawberry Vodka – Add 100g chopped strawberries for extra sweetness
Spiced Rhubarb Vodka – Add a cinnamon stick or a couple of pink peppercorns

Conclusion

Rhubarb vodka is a fun and flavourful way to preserve the bright, tart taste of fresh rhubarb. With only a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a homemade spirit that’s perfect for cocktails, gifts, or simply enjoying chilled on a summer’s evening. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked on flavouring your own spirits at home.