Rhubarb Rendezvous

**Description:** Rhubarb Rendezvous is a summer cocktail that celebrates the vibrant tartness of rhubarb, enhanced by the sweetness of strawberries and the exotic flair of anise. This complex yet refreshing drink combines the earthiness of rhubarb with a mix of fresh, summerly flavors, creating a cocktail that's perfectly balanced and utterly refreshing. **Ingredients:** 1. 1.5 oz Gin (for its floral notes) 2. 1 oz Rhubarb & Anise Cordial (homemade or store-bought) 3. 0.5 oz Strawberry Puree 4. 0.25 oz Fresh Orange Juice 5. 0.5 oz Rosemary Simple Syrup 6. 2 dashes of Orange Bitters 7. Sparkling water to top 8. Garnish: Orange twist and a sprig of rosemary **Glass:** Serve in a highball glass. **Preparation:** 1. To make the Rhubarb & Anise Cordial: Combine chopped rhubarb, a handful of anise stars, sugar, and water in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer, then cool and strain. 2. For the Rosemary Simple Syrup: Mix equal parts sugar and water, add a few sprigs of rosemary while the mixture is simmering, then cool and strain. 3. In a shaker, combine Gin, Rhubarb & Anise Cordial, Strawberry Puree, Fresh Orange Juice, Rosemary Simple Syrup, and Orange Bitters with ice. 4. Shake well until thoroughly chilled. 5. Strain into a highball glass filled with ice. 6. Top with sparkling water. 7. Garnish with an orange twist and a sprig of rosemary for an aromatic finish. **Other Variations:** - **Rhubarb Rum Bliss:** Swap the gin for white rum to add a smooth, sweet undertone that pairs beautifully with the tartness of the rhubarb and the sweetness of the strawberry. - **Rhubarb Tequila Sunrise:** Use tequila instead of gin for a Mexican twist on the recipe, and replace rosemary simple syrup with agave syrup. This variation gives the drink a delightful agave flavor that complements the rhubarb and strawberry. - **Rhubarb Vodka Cooler:** Opt for vodka to keep the drink light and neutral, allowing the rhubarb, anise, and strawberry flavors to shine through even more. This version is perfect for those who appreciate the subtleties of the mixed flavors without the botanical notes of gin. - **Sparkling Rhubarb Sake:** For an Asian twist, replace gin with sake and top the drink with dry sparkling sake instead of sparkling water. This variation offers a unique combination of the delicate rice flavor of sake with the tartness of rhubarb, enhanced by the effervescence of sparkling sake. Each variation offers a unique twist to the Rhubarb Rendezvous, allowing you to enjoy the delightful combination of rhubarb with different spirits and flavors, perfectly suited for any summer occasion.