Elderflower Martini Cocktail Recipe

Elderflower Martini Nutrition Facts

Calories:210

Fat:0g

Protein:0g

Carbohydrates:12g

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

History

The Elderflower Martini is a modern twist on the classic martini, incorporating the delicate floral notes of elderflower liqueur. This elegant cocktail has gained popularity in recent years, especially among those who appreciate a sophisticated and refreshing drink. It's perfect for those who enjoy a touch of sweetness without overpowering the natural flavors of the spirits.

  • Origin: Unknown, but likely inspired by the classic martini
  • Popularity: Gaining popularity in recent years
  • Ideal for: Sophisticated gatherings, garden parties, and those who appreciate a touch of floral sweetness

How Elderflower Martini Tastes?

The Elderflower Martini is a delicate, floral, and slightly sweet cocktail with a hint of citrus. It's well-balanced, refreshing, and elegant.

Interesting facts about Elderflower Martini

  • Elderflower liqueur is made from the small, white flowers of the elderberry plant, which are handpicked during a short period in late spring.
  • The elderflower has been used for centuries in various culinary and medicinal applications.
  • The addition of elderflower liqueur to a classic martini adds a unique, floral twist that sets it apart from other variations.

Ingredients

A few good options for Elderflower Martini are:

  • Tanqueray Gin
  • Roku Japanese Gin

Learn everything on which Gin to choose

Gin

The gin's botanicals are the backbone of this cocktail, providing an earthy complexity that balances the sweet and floral notes. Using 2 oz is the perfect level to shine through without overpowering the delicate elderflower. No gin, no grin! Well, if you skip the gin, you lose the party in the garden. Substituting with vodka will yield a cleaner, less complex taste.

Alex Green

Elderflower Liqueur

At 1 oz, elderflower liqueur brings a distinctly sweet floral aroma, the signature of this martini. It's like the person who lights up the room with their smile. Too much and you might as well be in a field of overpowering flowers; too little, and why bother? Swap with St. Germain for a similar profile.

Mary Mitkina

Lemon Juice

The 0.5 oz lemon juice cuts through sweetness, adds zing, and is like that friend who's always refreshingly honest. Missing the lemon juice would be like missing the zest of life, making the drink feel flat. Lime juice can be a zesty alternative!

Emma Rose

Dry Vermouth

A half-ounce of dry vermouth adds a whisper of herbaceousness and brings the gin and elderflower into harmony. Without it, you're missing the binding agent of your social gathering — things could separate. Alternatively, use a splash of Lillet Blanc for a slightly sweeter nuance.

Alex Green

Ice

Just as needed, to chill and dilute. This ingredient keeps the party cool. Without it, you're sipping on lukewarm awkwardness. No alternatives here, ice is irreplaceable!

Mary Mitkina

Lemon Twist

The garnish is more than just aesthetics; it's the final flourish of citrus aroma that greets you with every sip. It's like saying goodbye with a smile. No lemon twist can make for a less inviting first impression. An orange twist could offer a subtle complexity.

Emma Rose

Recipe. How to make Elderflower Martini Drink

  1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
  2. Add gin, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and dry vermouth to the shaker.
  3. Shake well until chilled.
  4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
  5. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Pro Tips

  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor
  • Chill your martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes before serving to keep the cocktail cold
  • Experiment with different brands of gin and elderflower liqueur to find your preferred flavor combination

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

  • Cheese Platters: A selection of mild to medium cheeses like goat cheese or Brie compliments the floral notes of elderflower.
  • Seafood: Light seafood dishes, especially those with a citrusy dressing, can beautifully match the martini's botanical elements.
  • Sushi: Enjoy with a sushi platter, as the clean, zesty flavors can enhance the delicate taste of the fish.
  • Salads: Opt for green salads with vinaigrette dressings to echo the cocktail's acidity.

Desserts

  • Lemon Tart: The citrus from the lemon juice in the martini harmonizes with lemon-based desserts.
  • Sorbets: Particularly elderflower or lemon sorbets, for a refreshing palate cleanser that mirrors the cocktail's fragrance.

Drink Pairings

  • Sparkling Water: To cleanse the palate between sips of the cocktail.
  • Chilled White Wine: A crisp Grüner Veltliner or Sauvignon Blanc could precede or follow the martini very well.

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What you could change in Elderflower Martini

  • Gin: Vodka can be used for a slightly different flavor profile
  • Elderflower Liqueur: St. Germain is a popular brand, but other elderflower liqueurs can be used
  • Dry Vermouth: If you prefer a sweeter martini, you can use sweet vermouth instead

Explore all drinks starting with E here

And of course - twists🍹

Cucumber Elderflower Martini

  • Alternate Ingredients: Add 3 slices of cucumber, muddle before adding other ingredients.
  • Recipe: Muddle cucumber in the shaker, then follow with the regular recipe.
  • Taste Change: Introduces a refreshing, garden-fresh twist to the original.

Rosemary Elderflower Martini

  • Alternate Ingredients: Include a sprig of rosemary, and flame for garnish.
  • Recipe: Briefly flame the rosemary sprig, add it to the shaker, then mix as usual. Garnish the finished drink with the flamed rosemary.
  • Taste Change: Adds a piney, slightly smoky twist, complementing the herbal notes of gin.

Spicy Elderflower Martini

  • Alternate Ingredients: A small pinch of cayenne pepper or a slice of jalapeño.
  • Recipe: Shake ingredients with a pinch of cayenne or a slice of jalapeño, then strain.
  • Taste Change: Adds a warm, spicy kick that can elevate the other flavors and surprise the palate.

In case you forgot basics how to make Elderflower 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 shake

Place 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 strain

Garnishing 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).

Learn everything on garnishing

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Frequently Asked Questions on Elderflower Martini

How can I strengthen the flavor of elderflower in the cocktail?

You can experiment with adding a touch more elderflower liqueur to the cocktail, but remember to balance the other ingredients accordingly. Alternatively, you can try adding a dash of elderflower syrup or use a cocktail garnish infused with elderflower.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Elderflower Martini?

Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic Elderflower 'Martini' by replacing the gin and vermouth with tonic water or soda, and use non-alcoholic elderflower cordial in place of the elderflower liqueur. Adjust the proportions to your taste.

Is it possible to make your own elderflower liqueur?

Yes, homemade elderflower liqueur can be made by infusing elderflowers with a neutral spirit like vodka, to which sugar and water are later added. Do note that homemade versions will differ in taste from commercially made elderflower liqueur due to variations in the process and ingredients.

What can elderflower taste be compared to?

The taste of elderflower is unique but can be broadly described as lightly floral with hints of pear, lychee, and citrus. Its underlying sweetness has a subtly fruity character.

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