Rhubarb Renaissance
A sophisticated non-alcoholic cocktail that embodies Gemini's love of botanical complexity through the tart-sweet balance of rhubarb and rose. Clean Co. Clean G provides gin-like juniper notes without alcohol, while rhubarb cordial offers bright acidity and unique vegetal sweetness. The rose syrup adds floral elegance, and muddled basil creates an herbaceous layer that evolves as the drink settles. This cocktail sparks conversations about unexpected flavor combinations.
Ingredients
2 oz Clean Co. Clean G
0.75 oz rhubarb cordial*
0.5 oz fresh lime juice
0.25 oz rose syrup
4 fresh basil leaves
Dried rose petals for garnish
Fresh basil sprig for garnish
*Rhubarb Cordial:
2 lbs fresh rhubarb, chopped
2 cups sugar
2 cups water
Juice of 1 lemon
Simmer until rhubarb breaks down, strain and bottle
Instructions
Prepare rhubarb cordial: Combine chopped rhubarb, sugar, water, and lemon juice in heavy saucepan. Simmer 30 minutes until rhubarb completely breaks down. Strain through fine mesh, pressing solids. Cool and bottle.
In a cocktail shaker, gently muddle 4 basil leaves with rose syrup - just enough to bruise and release oils.
Add Clean Co. Clean G, rhubarb cordial, and fresh lime juice.
Add ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
Double strain over crushed ice in a rocks glass.
Garnish with a fresh basil sprig and a pinch of dried rose petals scattered on top.
Allow drink to settle for 30 seconds before serving to let aromatics develop.
Notes
Rhubarb cordial keeps refrigerated for up to 1 month
Choose young, tender rhubarb for best flavor
Rose syrup should be high-quality - avoid artificial versions
Crushed ice allows aromatics to release more readily than cubes
Clean Co. Clean G provides juniper complexity without alcohol
Don't over-muddle basil to avoid bitter chlorophyll extraction
Pairs well with: Strawberry shortcake, goat cheese appetizers, or as an elegant afternoon refresher that bridges seasons.