Elderflower Collins Recipe

Elderflower Collins recipe — The sophisticated cousin who studied abroad and won't stop talking about botany. Made with gin. Originally from United Kingdom.

I'm basically a Tom Collins who went to finishing school and developed a passion for artisanal florals. I speak three languages, vacation in the Cotswolds, and yes, I do know which fork to use first. Don't mistake my refinement for stuffiness though—I still know how to have a good time, just with better conversation.

Elderflower has been used medicinally for over 2,500 years, and Shakespeare referenced elderflowers in several plays as symbols of transformation and magic. The Romans called it 'the medicine chest of the people.'

Born in London's craft cocktail renaissance of the 2000s when bartenders began elevating the classic Tom Collins with elderflower liqueur. St-Germain's popularity launched a thousand floral variations, but this one stuck around because it perfectly balances botanical sophistication with familiar refreshment.

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin
• 0.75 oz elderflower liqueur (St-Germain preferred)
• 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
• 0.25 oz simple syrup
• 3-4 oz soda water (chilled)
• 1 wheel lemon (for garnish)
• 1 sprig fresh elderflower (or lemon twist if unavailable)

Instructions

1. Add gin, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup to collins glass filled with ice.
2. Stir gently to combine ingredients.
3. Top with chilled soda water and stir once more.
4. Garnish with lemon wheel and elderflower sprig.

Category: cocktail | Difficulty: easy | Base spirit: gin | ABV: 12.0-15.0%

Origin: United Kingdom