Skip to main content

Roselle

The story of the Roselle highlights the creative process at Employees Only. After seeking a hibiscus cordial, bar manager Robert Krueger infused the dried blossoms into syrup for a delicious result. The citrus and floral elements immediately suggested a pairing with gin, and the botanicals in Tanqueray No. 10 specifically led to grapefruit. A quick shake revealed that the red of the hibiscus turns an iridescent rose when mixed—inspiring the drink’s name. The resulting drink is a reminder that a confident bartender should never be afraid of mixing a pink drink—or of drinking one, for that matter.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    makes 1 drink

Ingredients

1 1/2 ounces Tanqueray No. 10 gin
1 ounce Hibiscus Cordial (page 158)
3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
1/2 ounce freshly squeezed grapefruit juice

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Pour the gin, cordial, and juices into a mixing glass. Add large cold ice cubes and shake vigorously. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

  2. tasting notes

    Step 2

    Dominant Flavors: floral hibiscus and grapefruit

    Step 3

    Body: medium

    Step 4

    Dryness: medium

    Step 5

    Complexity: low to medium

    Step 6

    Accentuating or Contrasting Flavors: citrus and juniper

    Step 7

    Finish: medium tannic hibiscus with juniper following

  3. Step 8

    Glass: cocktail

Cover of Speakeasy by Jason Kosmas and Dushan Zaric featuring a coupe glass with a brown cocktail and lemon wheel garnish.
Reprinted with permission from Speakeasy: The Employees Only Guide to Classic Cocktails Reimagined by Jason Kosmas and Dushan Zaric, © 2010 Ten Speed Press. Buy the full book from Amazon or Bookshop.
Read More
Like lemony risotto and tandoori-style cauliflower.
A warmly spiced Ashkenazi charoset, perfect for your Passover seder—or spooned over yogurt the next morning.
Biscuits and gravy, but make it spring.
This broiled hot honey salmon recipe results in sweet, spicy, glossy fish coated in a homemade hot honey glaze for an easy weeknight dinner or make-ahead lunch.
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
Keep this easy frittata recipe on hand for quick breakfasts, impressive brunches, and fridge clean-out meals.
Use this simple vinaigrette to dress a plate of greens, some steamed potatoes, or anything else that strikes your fancy.
Like airy lemon chiffon cake and a Cadbury egg–inspired tart.