Elderberry Martini Cocktail Recipe
Elderberry Martini Nutrition Facts
Calories:180
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:15g
Alcohol %:20%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The Elderberry Martini is a delightful twist on the classic Martini, featuring the sweet and tangy flavors of elderberries. This cocktail is relatively modern, gaining popularity in the 21st century as mixologists began experimenting with unique flavors and infusions. It's a favorite among those who enjoy fruity cocktails with a sophisticated edge.
How Elderberry Martini Tastes?
The Elderberry Martini is a harmonious blend of sweet, tart, and strong. The elderberry syrup lends a fruity sweetness, balanced by the tartness of fresh lemon juice. The vodka provides a strong, clean base that allows the elderberry flavor to shine.
Interesting facts about Elderberry Martini
- Elderberries are known for their antioxidant properties and are often used in syrups and liqueurs.
- Despite its name, the Elderberry Martini is not a true martini, as it contains additional ingredients beyond the traditional gin and vermouth.
- The Elderberry Martini is a versatile cocktail that can be enjoyed year-round, but its fruity flavor profile makes it especially refreshing in the warmer months.
Ingredients
- Vodka: 2 oz(60ml)
- Elderberry syrup: 1 oz(30ml)
- Lemon juice: 1 oz(30ml)
- Ice: As needed
- Lemon twist: For garnish
A few good options for Elderberry Martini are:
- Grey Goose
- Belvedere
- Khor
- Smirnoff
Vodka
Vodka is the backbone of our Elderberry Martini—its clean, neutral flavor provides a smooth canvas for the elderberry syrup and lemon juice to shine. Using 2 oz ensures that the drink remains balanced; too little and you'd miss the kick, too much and you'd overwhelm the other flavors. If vodka isn't your style, try gin for a botanical twist.
Mary Mitkina
Elderberry Syrup
Elderberry syrup offers a sweet yet tart berry flavor that's key to this cocktail's uniqueness—with 1 oz, it stands out without overpowering. Skip it and you lose the 'elderberry' in your martini. A pomegranate or blackcurrant syrup could be an interesting alternative for a different berry vibe.
Alex Green
Lemon Juice
The zesty punch of 1 oz lemon juice brightens the drink, offering a refreshing acidity to balance the sweetness of the syrup. Without it, the cocktail would taste too flat and sweet. An alternative could be lime juice for a slightly sharper, tangy edge.
Emma Rose
Ice
Ice doesn't just chill; it dilutes the drink a tad as you shake, which is essential for the perfect sipping texture. No ice means a warm and overly potent concoction that might not be as enjoyable.
Mary Mitkina
Lemon Twist
This garnish isn't just for looks—it releases essential oils that enhance the drink's aroma and adds a hint of lemon flavor that echoes the juice used in the mix. An orange or grapefruit twist could offer a subtle change in citrus notes.
Alex Green
Recipe. How to make Elderberry Martini Drink
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the vodka, elderberry syrup, and lemon juice.
- Shake well until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty.
- Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
Pro Tips
- Make sure to shake the cocktail vigorously to ensure all the ingredients are well mixed.
- Using a chilled glass will help keep your cocktail cold for longer.
Perfect Pairings
Seafood
Pair the Elderberry Martini with oysters or a shrimp cocktail. The acidity from the lemon juice and the sweet-tart profile of the elderberry syrup complement the brininess of the seafood beautifully.
Cheese
Opt for creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert. The fruitiness of the elderberry pairs well with the rich and buttery flavors of these cheeses.
Desserts
Serve with light desserts like lemon sorbet or a berry tart. The cocktail's own lemon notes will resonate well with similar citrus desserts, and it can cut through the sweetness of fruit pastries.
Snacks
A classic charcuterie board with a mix of salty nuts, olives, and mild cheeses would also make a great companion to this vibrant cocktail.
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What you could change in Elderberry Martini
- If you can't find elderberry syrup, you can substitute it with blackcurrant cordial or blackberry syrup.
- Gin can be used instead of vodka for a more botanical flavor.
Explore all drinks starting with E here
And of course - twists🍹
Berry Blue Martini
Replace elderberry syrup with blueberry syrup. The Berry Blue Martini will have a similar sweet and tart balance but with the distinctive, slightly milder flavor of blueberries. This twist pairs wonderfully with desserts that include vanilla or cinnamon.
Elderflower Martini
Use 0.5 oz elderberry syrup and 0.5 oz elderflower liqueur. This variant adds a floral note and a more complex sweetness. Elderflower liqueur is less tart than the syrup, so this drink would be perfect with a sharper cheese plate.
Spicy Elderberry Martini
Add a small slice of jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the shaker. This twist will give your martini a kick of heat, contrasting with the sweet and sour profile. It’s a bold choice for those who like their cocktails with an unexpected twist.
In case you forgot basics how to make Elderberry Martini
Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.
Learn everything on how to shakePlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
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Frequently Asked Questions on Elderberry Martini
What type of vodka works best with this recipe?
While you can use any vodka, a high-quality vodka will let the elderberry flavor shine. However, if you prefer, a berry-infused vodka could also add to the overall flavor of the cocktail.
What is the origin of elderberries and are they popular in any specific cuisines?
Elderberries are native to North America and Europe, and they have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and food preparation. They are commonly found in European cuisines, particularly in the form of syrups, jams, and wines.
Are there non-alcoholic alternatives for this cocktail?
Yes, you can substitute the vodka with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic spirit for a mocktail version of this recipe.
What other types of garnish work with this cocktail?
Fresh berries or a delicate sprig of mint could be good alternatives for garnishing this cocktail.
Can this cocktail be pre-made for a party?
Yes, the mixture of vodka, elderberry syrup, and lemon juice can be pre-made and left in the refrigerator. Do remember to add the ice and shake it well just before serving.
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