I’ve found that an Elderflower Gin and Tonic is a really simple way to give a classic drink a fresh twist. This recipe uses gin, tonic water, and elderflower liqueur for a light, floral flavor that feels just right.

It only takes a few minutes—no fancy skills or bar gadgets required. I like making this cocktail on warm afternoons or when friends drop by.

The elderflower brings a sweet note that makes the drink pop, but honestly, it’s not much effort at all. You can follow these easy steps and make one at home, no problem.

Elderflower Gin and Tonic Cocktail Recipe

This drink is all about elderflower liqueur, gin, tonic water, and a little lime. I mix them up for a taste that’s perfect for spring or summer—though, honestly, I’d drink it any time.

John

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Serving Size

Equipment

I usually grab a highball or a big tumbler glass since it fits plenty of ice and leaves room for tonic.
I use a jigger for measuring, but if you can’t find yours, a regular tablespoon works fine.
A bar spoon is handy for stirring gently so you don’t lose the bubbles.

A citrus peeler or even a small paring knife helps with lime wedges or twists for garnish.

Ingredients

Here’s what I start with:

2 ounces gin
1 ounce elderflower liqueur like St-Germain
4 ounces chilled tonic water
Fresh lime wedges
Ice cubes
Optional: edible flowers or mint for garnish

Instructions

First, I fill the glass with ice, leaving about half an inch at the top. Gin goes in over the ice, then the elderflower liqueur right after.

I stir the two together for maybe five seconds—just enough to mix.
Then tonic water goes in, poured slowly (sometimes over a spoon) to keep those bubbles lively.
I give it one or two gentle stirs—no more, or it’ll go flat.

Next, I squeeze a wedge of lime over the top and either drop it in or hook it on the rim.
If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll toss in an edible flower or a little mint. Best to serve it right away while it’s still cold and fizzy.

Notes

I chill my gin and tonic before mixing, which really helps keep the drink cold. The ice melts slower that way, too.

Small, clear ice cubes are my go-to—they don’t water things down as quickly. If I want a lighter version, I just add more tonic (but not too much, or it’ll taste watered down).

Elderflower liqueur is pretty sweet, so if it’s too much, I add a bit more lime juice. I never shake this drink—shaking kills the bubbles fast. For parties, I’ll cut limes and prep garnishes ahead so I can keep up with thirsty guests.

Tasting Notes

When I take a sip, the first thing I notice is the aroma. It’s light, floral, and there’s a hint of fresh herbs in the air. The elderflower is there, but it doesn’t drown out the gin’s classic scent.

The taste? Crisp and refreshing, honestly. There’s a subtle sweetness from the elderflower, and the gin brings some botanical notes. Tonic adds a gentle bitterness that keeps it from being too sweet.

The bubbles from the tonic are lively but not over the top. Everything blends together nicely, so it’s balanced and easy to drink.

After swallowing, there’s a lingering floral note with a bit of that clean herbal taste. I think a wedge of lemon or lime adds freshness and ties it all together.

Honestly, I’d keep it cold for the best flavor. The drink feels light and never gets too heavy, which is exactly what I want in a gin and tonic.

Substitute

Sometimes, I just don’t have elderflower liqueur sitting around. St. Germain is a solid backup, but honestly, any floral liqueur can sort of do the trick.

Rose liqueur or violet liqueur both give this gentle, flowery vibe—maybe not exactly the same, but close enough for most days.

About the gin—if I’ve run out (it happens more than I’d like to admit), I’ll reach for vodka. It’s lighter, so the drink changes a bit, but it still plays nicely with tonic and whatever floral thing I’ve got.

If tonic water’s a bit much for my taste buds, I’ll just swap in club soda. It’s milder and lets those floral flavors shine through more.

Sometimes, I’m just not in the mood for alcohol. In that case, I use elderflower syrup with soda water—makes a sweet, light mocktail that’s honestly pretty refreshing.

I change up the garnish depending on what’s in the fridge. No lemon? Lime or orange slices work fine.

And if I’m feeling a little fancy, edible flowers or a sprig of mint look great and smell amazing.

Elderflower Gin and Tonic Cocktail Recipe