Here is another approach to making a shrub, a recipe with a slightly sweeter and fruitier profile than our strawberry shrub. This recipe, used in the Orange Tree Old Fashioned, is from Steven Gellett, keeper of the bar at The Orange Tree in Richmond, England, a public house, 13-room hotel, and haven to rugby fans.
Orange, Ginger and Cabernet Sauvignon Vinegar
2 pounds Valencia oranges, peeled and quartered
2 cups water
2 cups sugar
1 teaspoon ground ginger
3 1/2 ounces Cabernet Sauvignon vinegar
Heat water and sugar on medium heat until sugar has dissolved. Add oranges and ginger. Bring to low boil for 25 minutes. Strain out all fruit segments (pressing any remaining juice out of the oranges). Leave to cool for 1 hour then add Cabernet Sauvignon vinegar. Store in an air tight container in the refrigerator. Makes 3 to 3 1/2 cups.
