I’m very excited to introduce a new series of cocktails that I’ll be posting on Wednesdays based on the signs of the zodiac! We’re currently in Aries which runs from March 21 to April 20, an appropriate place to start since it’s considered the first astrological sign. It’s symbolized by the  golden ram of mythology whose fleece was sought after by many, and eventually found by Jason and the Argonuats. Who knew?? I’ll bet the Aries out there, who like to think they know everything I might add, were unaware that their ram was so famous. Ruled by the planet Mars, Aries is a fire sign, and those born under it are fiercely independent and ambitious, preferring to lead rather than follow, largely due to the fact that they know they can do things better than anyone else. They have an adventurous streak that makes them excellent candidates for reality TV shows like Survivior, where their naturally intelligent, creative, and competitive nature shows no mercy for their opponents. Go ahead and engage them in a friendly round of arm wrestling or dodge ball; they’ll come at you with everything they’ve got! Their extremely high energy level has them on the go constantly, and you can often find them working on new projects late into the night. They are also wildly flirtatious, which often leads to trouble, especially if there is another Aries, Leo, or Sagittarius nearby. They love coming in first, they’ll work tirelessly for a good cause, and are generous and loyal friends. They like telling the truth so be careful asking them for it. They don’t like to be kept waiting, they are reluctant to admit when they’re wrong, and they look down with disdain on dependent people who ask too many questions.

I wanted today’s cocktail to be predominantly red since that’s Aries color, with lots of intense fruit to symbolize their strong personalities. A combination of gin and sloe gin as my base spirits, both made by Plymouth, was the perfect place to start. I added in some strawberry jam to bump up the color even more, and to intensify the flavor of the sloe gin. I reached for Tait Farms rhubarb shrub next which paired nicely with the berry flavors, and brought some welcome tartness to the drink. I knew that I needed something warm and spicy to remain true to Aries fiery nature, so I added in Sukkah Hill Spirits Besamim liqueur to accomplish what I wanted without adding too much extra sweetness. Two dashes of DRAM’s Citrus Medica bitters were the final touch, helping to bring the entire cocktail into balance. The end result was a drink with 6 different ingredients that celebrate Aries overachiever status, intensely red in color, and energized with lots of fruit and spice. If this drink wanted to be my leader, I’d be happy to follow it anywhere. And I’d be careful not to ask too many questions…

Seeing Red

1½ oz Plymouth gin
1 oz Plymouth Sloe gin
½ oz Sukkah Hill Spirits Besamim liqueur
¾ oz Tait Farms rhubarb shrub
1 tsp strawberry jam
2 dashes DRAM Apothecary citrus medica bitters

Add all the ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake for 20-30 seconds until very cold. Double strain into a Nick & Nora glass and garnish with a sliced strawberry. Raise a glass to your favorite Aries… Cheers!

Image from www.crystallinks.com