If you haven’t tried elderflower liqueur, you are in for a treat. This liqueur adds a slightly sweet, slightly floral note to some standard cocktails to brighten them up and make them more festive! Just what we all need this holiday season.
First, some semantics. You may find some references to elderberry liquor (note the spelling difference between liqueur and liquor), but that is not what we’re talking about here. The Brits call their syrup for baking and jam making liquor. Not only is it lacking any alcohol, but the berries of the plant are significantly more jammy in flavor, as you would expect, than the elderflower.
Elderflower liqueur has a much more delicate nose and the spirit derived is a true liqueur, sweetened and floral. It reminds me a bit of jasmine with a hint of citrus.
There are two drinks we are making for gatherings which are refreshing and dreamy for late afternoon cocktails out in the pavilion, or as a lighter pre-dinner drink with friends.
The first, the Elderflower cocktail, Is refreshing and light, and suitable for any festive occasion, due to the bubbles. If you don’t have champagne on hand, you can substitute dry white wine, but I like it best with champagne.
The second, an elderflower margarita, is a refreshing update to the standard margarita. This version infuses bright floral notes and really enhances the tequila!
Elderflower Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 parts St Germain Elderflower liqueur
- 3 parts Champagne (or dry white wine)
- 1 part Club soda
- Lemon twist for garnish.
Instructions:
Gently pour in the champagne first into your champagne flute. Then add the Elderflower liqueur. Top off with the club soda, and garnish with a twist.
Elderflower Margarita
Ingredients:
- 2 part good quality reposada tequila
- 1 part St Germain elderflower liqueur
- 1 part fresh squeezed lime or lemon juice
- Salt and lime or lemon wedge for garnish
Instructions:
Rub the rim of your glass with a wet lime wedge. Pour approximately two tablespoons course kosher salt into a shallow bowl. Turn your margarita glass upside down and press into the salt to rim the glass.
Mix all of the other ingredients together along with ice in your cocktail shaker. Shake and serve up, being careful not to smudge your salted rim.
