My first thought was that since rhubarb leaves are poisonous, the deer would leave them alone. A quick google search provides examples of deer eating rhubarb, but this plant is also listed as being one of the more resistant choices. Even if rhubarb plants are eaten down to the ground, there is a good chance that it will come back. I think it would be worth giving it a try, rhubarb is too good not to...

Don't know about the varieties - I like the ones with bright red stalks for appearance alone, but have cooked with both red a green stalks.

Good luck

Nourse Farms carries rhubarb. I'm sure there are other places you can order from as well.

Here is a link that might be useful: Nourse Farms

Any red rhubarb is a good choice. I've never seen any damaged by deer. I like Canada Red and Crimson Red myself. Both are excellent and productive.