If you’ve every studied a cocktail menu and asked yourself “What’s elderflower?” you are not alone. The odds are you’ve cozied up to a bar, or attended a boozy brunch and indulged in a cocktail with elderflower liqueur. Popular in the Northwestern portion of Europe since Victorian times, elderflower is 100% edible and has been venerated for its medicinal, mystical and nutritional properties since Roman times. This small white floret from the elder bush grows best in bright sunlight, and is high in Vitamins A, C and B6 — all of which aid in reducing inflammation, alleviating stress and strengthening the body’s immune system. On the holistic front, the dried flowers, berries and leaves help to ward off both illness and negative energy. Made into a liqueur, cordial or syrup, the aroma strikes a balance between floral and fruity, with notes of peach, vanilla and spice. Some of the most popular brands currently available include St. Germain, Thatcher’s Elderflower Liqueur, Côte Jolie and Giffard Premium. In fact, even Hendrick’s Gin has elderflower as one of its 12 main botanicals. Who else is parched from so much reading? Let’s explore some cocktails to satisfy this thirst for elderflower!
Cue The Cocktails
Beaker & Gray, Wynwood
Drink: Rosé-Colored Glasses
Ingredients: Rosé, watermelon, rosemary, soda, St. Germain
Le Jardinier, Design District
Drink: Root Day
Ingredients: St. Germain, carrots, lemon, ginger beer, orange bitters, Blanquette de Limoux
American Social, Brickell
Drink: Grey Line
Ingredients: Grey Goose, St. Germain, soda water, fresh citrus juice, basil, cucumber, blackberry
Let’s Ask the Expert:
“Alongside the traditional botanicals that are used to distill gin, we also include elderflower. We understand what a diverse ingredient it is; it does wonders in our symphony of flavors.” — Erik Andersson, Brand Ambassador for Hendrick’s Gin
