The Rhubarb Margarita is a seasonal twist on the classic, putting rhubarb in the spotlight. Its tart character pairs naturally with lime, while a bit of sweetness from rhubarb syrup balances the edge. Tequila blanco provides the backbone, and orange liqueur gives it just enough lift. Served in a salt-rimmed glass and finished with a rhubarb stem and lime wheel, this drink is both refreshing and distinct. It’s a great way to feature fresh rhubarb in a cocktail that feels familiar but still brings something different to the table.

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Tasting Notes

The Rhubarb Margarita strikes a balance between tart, sweet, and citrus. The rhubarb simple syrup brings a bright, fruity acidity that pairs naturally with the sharpness of lime juice. Tequila blanco adds a clean, slightly herbal base, while the orange liqueur introduces a mild citrus depth without tipping the drink into sweetness. Each element supports the next resulting in a cocktail that’s punchy, crisp, and just sweet enough. The salted rim enhances the contrast of flavors, and the garnish adds a fresh, natural finish. It’s a refreshing, citrus-driven drink with a subtle rhubarb twist.

Equipment and Glassware

To make this margarita, you’ll need a cocktail shaker for proper mixing, a jigger for accurate measuring, and a citrus press to get the most from your limes. A strainer ensures a clean pour. For the rim, use a shallow dish and a lime wedge to moisten the glass before dipping it in salt. A coupe or rocks glass works best to showcase the drink’s pale pink hue and hold the garnish securely. A sharp paring knife will help you slice a thin rhubarb stem and lime wheel for garnish.

Ingredients

2 oz rhubarb simple syrup
2 oz tequila blanco
0.5 oz orange liqueur
0.75 oz lime juice
Salt, for rimming
Garnish: rhubarb stem, lime wheel

Instructions

Pour salt onto a small plate. Rub a lime wedge along the rim of your glass, then dip the rim into the salt to coat.
Fill the glass with ice and set aside.
In a cocktail shaker, combine rhubarb syrup, tequila blanco, orange liqueur, and lime juice.
Add ice and shake firmly for about 15 seconds.
Strain into the prepared glass.
Garnish with a rhubarb stem and lime wheel.

Pro Tips

Use a homemade rhubarb syrup made with fresh stalks for best color and flavor.
Shake hard to fully mix the syrup and citrus.
Rim only half the glass with salt for flexibility in each sip.
Clear ice makes the pink hue of the drink more noticeable.
Garnish with a curled rhubarb ribbon for added visual appeal.
Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of syrup depending on the rhubarb’s tartness.
If serving to a crowd, batch the base mixture ahead and shake per serving.

When to Serve

The Rhubarb Margarita is perfect for spring and early summer, when rhubarb is at its peak. It works well at brunches, outdoor parties, or as a seasonal special on a cocktail menu. The fresh flavor and pale pink tone also make it suitable for showers, garden parties, or any occasion where a citrusy cocktail with a twist is welcome. Serve it when you want something with classic margarita appeal but a more distinctive fruit-forward edge.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Tequila Blanco: Espolòn Blanco, Fortaleza, or Herradura Silver
Orange Liqueur: Cointreau, Combier, or Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao
Rhubarb Syrup: Homemade is ideal; for bottled options, try Pratt Standard or Blank Slate Kitchen
Salt for Rim: Maldon, Jacobsen, or coarse sea salt

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