Ruby

ABV 12.5% / 2.2 Alcoholic Units

Primary Spirit: Vodka

A Brief History of a Ruby

The Ruby Cocktail doesn’t have a singular origin but is part of the broader tradition of fruit-based vodka cocktails that gained popularity in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Its name is inspired by its deep red hue, reminiscent of precious ruby gemstones. The drink has evolved with variations using different fruit components, but the essence remains the same, a refreshing, jewel-toned cocktail that’s both elegant and flavourful.

Taste and Flavour Profile

The Ruby Cocktail is fruity, slightly tart, and subtly sweet, with a refreshing citrus bite and a silky-smooth vodka backbone. Depending on the recipe, it often features pink grapefruit, lemon, or elderflower flavours, offering a balance of natural sweetness and tart acidity. A hint of citrus zest lifts the drink, while a well chosen vodka ensures a clean and crisp finish.

Food Pairings

The fruity and slightly tart profile of the Ruby Cocktail makes it a versatile pairing with a variety of dishes:

• Bruschetta with Ricotta and Berries – The creamy texture of ricotta and natural sweetness of berries complement the bright fruit flavours of the cocktail.
• Grilled Salmon with Citrus Glaze – The citrus notes in the drink enhance the fresh, slightly smoky flavours of the fish.
• Dark Chocolate Truffles – The slight bitterness of dark chocolate balances the drink’s fruit-forward sweetness.
• Spiced Nuts or Cheese Board – A mix of nuts, soft cheeses, and dried fruits makes for a perfect accompaniment to this elegant cocktail.

Bar Equipment:

• Cocktail shaker
• Bar spoon
• Jigger
• Hawthorne strainer
• Fine sieve
• Coupe glass

Ingredients

• 45ml Vodka
• 20ml Elderflower liqueur
• 15ml Campari
• 20ml Freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 20ml Freshly squeezed pink grapefruit juice
• 15ml Egg white/aquafaba*
• Garnish: pink grapefruit twist
• Ice

*Aquafaba is a super vegan alternative to egg because it's rich with substances that enhance water's foaming abilities. Chickpeas contain albumins and globulins, which are the same proteins found in eggs that make them so useful in creating culinary foams.

Method

• Add all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice, vigorously shake and double strain into a chilled coupe glass
  
• Garnish with pink grapefruit twist

What's the best Vodka for a Ruby cocktail?

For a Ruby Cocktail, a clean, smooth vodka that enhances the fruit flavours without overpowering them is ideal:

• Belvedere Vodka – A premium Polish vodka with a silky texture and subtle vanilla and rye spice notes.
• Grey Goose – A crisp and smooth vodka that complements the fruitiness of the cocktail.
• Ketel One – Offers a slight citrus undertone that works beautifully with the tartness of pink grapefruit and lemon.
• Absolut – A smooth, clean, and full-bodied Swedish vodka with subtle grain and dried fruit notes, making it a versatile choice for cocktails.

The Ruby Cocktail is a stunning and refreshing drink that blends vodka, citrus, and a touch of sweetness, resulting in a fruity yet well-balanced cocktail. Its vibrant colour and smooth, tart-sweet flavour make it a crowd pleaser, ideal for celebrations or elegant evenings.