In recent years the folks at Seattle-based Schilling Hard Cider has made a name for themselves as some of the most creative and committed to the craft in the business, including a 50-tap cider-exclusive cidery and bar that opened in Portland this June. Another on-trend innovation in the wonderful world of cider? The cider cocktail.
“Schilling loves to partner with others in the community, whether that be distilleries, farms or local businesses,” says Julia Childress, Schilling’s chief marketing officer. “By interacting with such a strong community that values high-quality ingredients and innovative combinations, it’s easy to come up with unique cocktail ideas… With cider on the rise, it’s a no-brainer to jump on the cider cocktail trend.”
Turning that winning combination up a notch by detailing a cocktail recipe on each canned cider offering, the team concocted the Rhubarb Cider Collins to go with its Lumberjack rhubarb cider. “This cocktail is a fall gin-and-tonic adaption that still has hints of summer,” Childress explains. “The citrus and floral notes take it to the next level. Flavored bitters are also on the rise and rhubarb bitters really add some depth to the Lumberjack cider.”
Childress recommends using Fremont Mischief Distillery gin in this revised classic gin cocktail, finding it a juniper-forward sip that is also a smooth and refreshing addition. Give it a go yourself at home!
Rhubarb Cider Collins
Makes 1 cocktail
1 ounce gin
1/4 ounce lemon juice
1/2 ounce St-Germain
2 dashes rhubarb bitters
1-2 ounces Schilling Lumberjack rhubarb cider
Build all ingredients in a cocktail shaker and add ice. Shake, strain over a glass with fresh ice and top with the cider.
