Strawberry Shrub Cocktail

What is a Strawberry Shrub cocktail?

So what is a Strawberry Shrub cocktail exactly? Well, in drinking terms the word ‘shrub’ refers to the non-alcoholic syrup you’ll be adding to the mix. Fragrant and flavorful, shrub syrup is made with a mixture of concentrated fruits (and in this case, strawberries) sugar and vinegar. The best part? It’s simple enough to make at home and to keep for cocktails that will shine with an added fresh zing. There are loads of shrub cocktail recipes using different fruit flavors, so go check them out if you want more shrub-spiration.  

How to make strawberry shrub syrup at home

• Add a cup of sugar and a cup of water to a saucepan
• Bring it to a slow boil
• While that’s on the go, slice up 2.5 cups of fresh strawberries 
• Add them to the simple syrup, turn down the heat and simmer slowly for around 15 minutes. If it gets more jammy than syrupy, add a dash of water to thin it out
• Remove from the heat and leave to cool down slightly. Remember, it’s syrup so it will burn if it gets on your skin. Patience is key
• Strain the cooled strawberries and syrup into a measuring jug, gently pressing down onto the berries with the back of a spoon to ensure you get every last bit of juice and flavor. You can strain it again through a cheesecloth to make sure your shrub syrup is silky smooth 
• Add equal amounts of white wine vinegar to syrup, and transfer to a bottle or jug
• Your strawberry shrub should be stored in the fridge and will keep for around 2 weeks 

Strawberry Shrub cocktail recipe

So, now that you’ve made your own, let’s show you how to use shrubs in cocktails. When it comes to the booze, you can use gin, bourbon, or white rum instead of vodka. And if you’re not into alcohol at the moment, then turn this into a refreshing non-alcoholic Strawberry Shrub Soda instead. 

What does a Strawberry Shrub cocktail taste like?

A Strawberry Shrub cocktail is a very berry-forward drink best served during hot summer months. The taste will depend on the liquor you choose to add, and you can also add additional aromas through your garnishes. We find that vodka allows for the most pronounced and freshest berry flavor. To get the best strawberry flavors, make sure that the strawberries you use for your shrub are fresh, plump and juicy.