Elderflower Martini

Ingredients

The hero of the Elderflower Martini is undoubtedly the elderflower liqueur. Known for its delicate floral notes, elderflower liqueur adds a unique sweetness that beautifully complements the tartness of citrus.

One of the most popular brands to use is St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur. This liqueur is made from fresh elderflower blossoms handpicked during the short flowering season .

When mixed into a cocktail, it brings an aromatic elegance that feels like a gentle breeze on a warm summer day.

• Elderflower Liqueur: This provides the floral foundation of the drink, offering notes of pear, lychee, and honeysuckle.
• Vodka: Vodka is a clean, smooth base that allows the elderflower’s floral notes to be the star of the show.
• Citrus: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and acidity that balances the sweetness of the elderflower liqueur, and a lemon twist adds just the right amount of garnish.

Check out the printable recipe card below for the complete recipe and detailed instructions.

Whether you’re lounging in a chic bar or mixing up drinks in the comfort of your own home, the elderflower martini offers a refreshing twist that’s bound to impress.

Looking for more floral cocktails, check out this refreshing Blue Dream Sangria too! 

How to make an Elderflower Martini

• Chill Your Glass
  Start by chilling your martini glass. You can fill it with ice water and set it aside while you prepare the cocktail.
• Add Ingredients to Shaker
  Grab a cocktail shaker and add plenty of ice. Pour in the vodka, elderflower liqueur, and fresh lemon juice.
• Shake it Up!
  Seal your shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
• Strain into Glass
  Dump the ice water from your glass and strain the mixture from the shaker into your chilled  martini glass.
• Garnish with a Twist of Lemon
  Take a slice of lemon peel and twist it over the drink to release its oils, then drop it in for that finishing touch. See instructions below for thinner spirals.

This elderflower martini recipe brings a unique elegance to any occasion with its light floral notes and hint of citrus.

Tips for the Perfect Martini

• Shaking Technique: Don’t be shy. The more you shake, the cooler and more mixed the drink becomes.
• Straining Method: If you love a smooth cocktail, use a fine mesh strainer to catch ice fragments.
• Glass Style: Serve in a classic martini glass to keep it elegant and stylish.

Making a Lemon Twist

• Wash the Lemon: Make sure the lemon is thoroughly washed to remove any wax or pesticides.
• Cut the Ends: Trim off the ends of the lemon to create flat surfaces.
• Create a Long Strip:
  • Using a Paring Knife: Hold the lemon firmly on the cutting board. Start at one end of the lemon and cut a thin, continuous strip of peel, moving around the lemon. Try to avoid cutting too much of the white pith, as it can be bitter.
  • Using a Vegetable Peeler: Position the peeler at one end of the lemon and apply even pressure as you peel off a long strip. Rotate the lemon to get a continuous peel if needed.
• Trim the Strip: If the strip is too wide or has excess pith, use the paring knife to trim it down to your desired size.
• Shape the Twist:
  • Hold each end of the lemon strip and twist it gently to create a spiral shape.
  • Alternatively, wrap the strip around a straw or a bar spoon handle to create a uniform twist. Hold it in place for a few seconds to set the shape.
• Garnish: Place the twist on the edge of your cocktail glass or drop it into the drink for a beautiful garnish.

Expert Tips:

• For a more pronounced twist, use a channel knife designed specifically for creating twists.
• If you want a tighter twist, you can briefly soak the lemon strip in ice water before twisting it.

Fruity Twists

Adding fruit flavors is a fun way to bring a different spin to the Elderflower Martini. The natural sweetness and vibrant colors of fruits not only enhance the drink visually but also add layers of flavor that tantalize the taste buds.

• Strawberry Elderflower Martini: Mix in some muddled strawberries for a sweet and slightly tart flavor. The bright red hue adds an intoxicating look.
• Pear Elderflower Martini: Add a splash of pear vodka and a slice of fresh pear for a gentle, juicy twist. Perfect for those who enjoy a milder fruity essence.
• Cucumber Elderflower Martini: Try cucumber vodka and fresh cucumber slices for a refreshing take. It’s like a cool breeze on a hot summer day.

More pre-dinner drink recipes

• Espresso Martinis
• Cherry Martini
• Limoncello Martini
• Lychee Martini