Elderflower Gin and Tonic Cocktail

Elderflower Gin and Tonic Cocktail Recipe from the UK

Region / culture: United Kingdom | Preparation time: 5 minutes | Servings: 1

Introduction

Elderflower Gin and Tonic Cocktail is a refreshing and aromatic drink that combines the floral notes of elderflower with the botanicals of gin and the crispness of tonic water. This cocktail is perfect for a summer evening or a special occasion.

History

The Gin and Tonic cocktail has a long history, dating back to the 19th century when British soldiers in India mixed gin with tonic water to make the bitter quinine more palatable. The addition of elderflower to this classic cocktail adds a modern twist and a touch of sweetness.

Ingredients

2 oz (57 g) of St. George Botanivore gin
6 oz (170 g) of Fever Tree Elderflower Tonic
2 pink grapefruit slices
small handful of juniper berries
rosemary sprig

How to prepare

Chill the drinking glass for 30 minutes. Add ice to the glass. Squeeze one slice of grapefruit into the glass and discard. Add the other grapefruit slice, juniper berries, and rosemary sprig to the glass. Pour gin into the glass. Add the tonic and stir before drinking.

Variations

Try using a different flavored tonic water such as cucumber or citrus for a unique twist.
Experiment with different types of gin to find your favorite flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to chill the drinking glass before preparing the cocktail to keep it cold.

- Use high-quality gin and tonic water for the best flavor.

- Experiment with different garnishes such as cucumber slices or mint leaves for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Elderflower Gin and Tonic Cocktail in a chilled glass with plenty of ice and garnish with a slice of grapefruit and a sprig of rosemary for a beautiful presentation.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a great Elderflower Gin and Tonic Cocktail is to use high-quality ingredients and to mix the cocktail gently to preserve the carbonation of the tonic water.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find elderflower tonic water, you can use regular tonic water and add a splash of elderflower syrup for a similar flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the garnishes and chill the glass ahead of time, but it is best to mix the cocktail just before serving to keep it fresh.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Elderflower Gin and Tonic Cocktail in a tall glass with plenty of ice and garnish with a slice of grapefruit and a sprig of rosemary for a beautiful and aromatic presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This cocktail pairs well with light and fresh dishes such as salads, seafood, or grilled vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh and should not be stored or reheated.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of the Elderflower Gin and Tonic Cocktail contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

The Elderflower Gin and Tonic Cocktail contains approximately 6 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This cocktail is low in fat, with less than 1 gram of fat per serving.

Proteins

There is no significant source of protein in the Elderflower Gin and Tonic Cocktail.

Vitamins and minerals

This cocktail contains a small amount of vitamin C from the grapefruit slices.

Alergens

This cocktail may contain allergens such as sulfites from the tonic water. Check the labels of the ingredients for allergen information.

Summary

The Elderflower Gin and Tonic Cocktail is a light and refreshing drink that is relatively low in calories and fat. It is a great option for those looking for a flavorful cocktail without a lot of added sugars.

Summary

The Elderflower Gin and Tonic Cocktail is a delightful and aromatic drink that is perfect for a summer evening or a special occasion. With its floral notes, botanicals, and crispness, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your cocktail repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a warm summer day, and I had been invited to a garden party at my friend Margaret's house. As I strolled through her beautiful garden, admiring the vibrant flowers and lush greenery, I came across a small cluster of elderflower bushes tucked away in a corner.

The delicate white blossoms swayed gently in the breeze, their sweet fragrance filling the air. I had heard of elderflowers before, but I had never actually seen them in person. Intrigued, I asked Margaret about them, and she told me that she used them to make a delicious gin and tonic cocktail.

Margaret was kind enough to share her recipe with me, and I couldn't wait to try it out for myself. She explained that elderflowers had a subtle floral flavor that paired perfectly with the crispness of gin and the zing of tonic water. She also mentioned that elderflowers were traditionally used in herbal medicine for their healing properties, so not only would the cocktail be delicious, but it would also be good for my health.

I was excited to give it a go, so I gathered a few elderflower blossoms from Margaret's garden and headed home to start my experiment. I poured myself a glass of gin, added a splash of tonic water, and carefully infused the mixture with the elderflowers. I let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, then took a tentative sip.

To my delight, the cocktail was everything Margaret had promised and more. The floral notes of the elderflowers danced on my tongue, while the gin added a touch of warmth and depth. The tonic water provided a refreshing effervescence that made the whole drink come alive. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before, and I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect my elderflower gin and tonic cocktail recipe, adding my own twist here and there. Sometimes I like to garnish it with a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint for a burst of freshness. Other times, I might sweeten it with a touch of honey or agave nectar for a different flavor profile.

I have shared my recipe with friends and family, and it has become a staple at all of our gatherings. Everyone marvels at the unique combination of flavors and how effortlessly they blend together. Some have even gone so far as to call it my signature cocktail, a title I wear with pride.

As I sit in my cozy kitchen, surrounded by the familiar sights and sounds of home, I can't help but feel grateful for the serendipitous moment that led me to discover the magic of elderflower gin and tonic cocktails. It is a reminder that sometimes the most beautiful things in life are found in the most unexpected places.

So, the next time you find yourself wandering through a garden or meandering down a country lane, keep an eye out for those delicate elderflower blossoms. Who knows what culinary treasures they may lead you to? And remember, the best recipes are not always found in cookbooks – sometimes, they are hidden in the whispers of the wind and the fragrance of a flower.