Rhubarb Gin Cocktail (aka Rhubarb G&T)

If you love a classic gin and tonic, you might want to give this beautifully hued rhubarb gin cocktail a go. It's beyond easy to make, and it's so unique and pretty. All you need is a generous spoonful of homemade rhubarb simple syrup stirred into a glass of iced gin that's topped with tonic water.

Were rhubarb and gin made for each other? It's possible. The two flavors complement each other so well: the slightly floral taste of the gin is balanced by a touch of sweetness from the honey in the syrup and the rhubarb's, well, rhubarbness. And it's pink! Oh, sweet spring and summer, you deserve a drink such as this - refreshing, light, sweetly perfumed, and with just a hint of a blush.

What You'll Love

• So pretty. Yes, I admit it - I love the way this recipe looks! I can't help it, the pink rhubarb syrup is utterly gorgeous, especially when it's served in a tall glass.
• Unique. It's not often you find rhubarb in a cocktail. I love how unique and special this drink is.
• A great twist on a classic. A proper G&T is simple and refreshing and needs only three ingredients. This takes the simple classic recipe and updates it with rhubarb syrup for extra flavor and color.

Ingredients Needed

Here's what you'll need for this cocktail. Make sure to scroll down to my recipe card at the bottom of this post for the full ingredient amounts and instructions!

• Rhubarb simple syrup - Use my from-scratch recipe linked above to make this g&t, or see how to make a quick rhubarb syrup below.
• Gin: Use a good-quality gin if you can.
• Tonic: Or substitute club soda.

Tips & Recipe Notes

• Make a quick syrup. Use the recipe linked in the recipe card, or: place 2 cups chopped rhubarb, 1 cup sugar or honey, and 2 cups water in a pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer until the sugar is dissolved and the rhubarb is soft. Strain out the rhubarb pulp, reserve the syrup, cool, then use it in the drink.
• Add more syrup. I have "or to taste" in the recipe notes because, well, it's totally up to you. You can start with 2 teaspoons of rhubarb syrup, then add more if you want a darker and more strongly flavored drink. Alternatively, go lighter on the syrup for more of a "hint of rhubarb" experience.
• Tonic alternative. Between you and me, tonic is not my favorite. If you also don't love it, try flavored soda water (lime or lemon is ideal), ginger beer, or club soda.
• Try another alcohol. Swap the gin for vodka to make a rhubarb vodka tonic, or try whiskey.

How to Serve

A rhubarb gin and tonic is a wonderful afternoon drink, but it would be lovely as a brunch cocktail as well. Serve it as a pick-me-up or add little nibbles like a cheese plate, a bowl of crunchy toasted nuts, chips, or crackers, and hummus.