COCKTAILS AT SIX :: THE RUBY ROUSER

Last week’s cocktail recipe installation started a bit of a trend for me, I think: creating drinks inspired by my favorite summer adventures and pastimes. This week? In homage to many a day sitting on the deck by the lake lately… I give you The Ruby Rouser.

First off, you have to know that this cocktail was also inspired by one of my favorite summer fruits – cherries! Here in Washington we have some of the best, and my friends east of the mountains sent me this new varietal to taste called the Orondo Ruby (hence the name of the cocktail!) which are absolutely delicious.

So I hunted for some cocktail inspiration when I came across the suggestion of using Lillet – another summer favorite – with the cherries. And thus, the Ruby Rouser (because it refreshes you on a hot summer day!) was born.

Ingredients // serves one

5 Orondo Ruby cherries, pitted
3 oz Lillet Blanc
1 oz of 3 Howls Navy Strength Gin
2 dashes orange bitters
Splash of seltzer water
Orange twist to garnish, if you so desire

To make // Muddle the cherries in a cocktail shaker, then add the Lillet, gin and bitters. Fill with ice, and shake! Pour the mixture into a lowball glass, including some ice. Top with seltzer water. If you like a bit more orange, add more bitters, and then a twist of orange peel garnish! You can experiment with different types of Lillet too (Rosé or Rouge) for different flavors. I think they’ll all taste delicious with this mix of ingredients.