Rhubarb Vodka Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Infusion Time: 7–14 days
Total Time: ~2 weeks
Yield: ~750ml (1 standard bottle)
Ingredients
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500g (1 lb) fresh rhubarb, chopped
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750ml plain vodka (use mid- to high-quality)
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100–150g (1/2 to 3/4 cup) granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
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Optional Add-ins:
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Zest of 1 lemon or orange
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1-inch fresh ginger, sliced
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1 vanilla bean, split
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Step 1: Prepare the Rhubarb
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Wash and trim the rhubarb, removing leaves if still attached (they’re toxic).
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Cut stalks into 1/2-inch chunks.
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Place the chopped rhubarb into a clean, sterilized 1-liter jar.
Step 2: Add Sugar & Flavorings
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Add the sugar directly into the jar with the rhubarb.
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If using lemon zest, ginger, or vanilla, add them now for extra flavor depth.
Step 3: Add Vodka
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Pour the vodka over the rhubarb and sugar, making sure everything is submerged.
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Seal the jar tightly and shake gently to mix.
Step 4: Infuse
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Store the jar in a cool, dark place (like a pantry or cupboard).
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Let it infuse for 7 to 14 days, shaking the jar once daily.
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After 1 week, taste it. If you want a stronger flavor, keep infusing up to 2 weeks.
Step 5: Strain and Bottle
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Once the flavor is where you want it, strain the vodka through a fine mesh sieve, cheesecloth, or coffee filter into a clean bowl or measuring jug.
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Discard the solids (or save for a boozy compote).
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Pour the infused vodka into a sterilized bottle or jar.
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Label and store in the fridge or a cool, dark cabinet.
Serving Ideas
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Neat or on the rocks
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Topped with tonic or soda water and a squeeze of lime
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Mixed into a Rhubarb Mule (vodka + ginger beer + lime)
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Added to lemonade for a refreshing summer drink
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In a Prosecco spritz for a pink twist on the classic
Approximate Alcohol by Volume (ABV)
Original vodka is 40% ABV. After infusion (due to sugar and rhubarb moisture), final ABV is roughly 30–35% depending on infusion time and ingredients.
Storage
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Store in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months
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For best flavor, refrigerate and consume within 3–4 months
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Shake gently before serving if sediment appears
Tips & Variations
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Use red rhubarb for a brighter pink color.
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Add strawberries or raspberries for a berry twist.
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Make it a liqueur-style by increasing sugar to 200g and steeping longer (up to 3 weeks).
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Use leftover rhubarb solids in baking or stir into yogurt or oatmeal.