Elderflower gin sangria is a refreshing twist on the classic Spanish drink. This cocktail blends the floral notes of elderflower with the botanical flavors of gin and crisp white wine. It’s perfect for warm summer evenings or festive gatherings.
The recipe combines elderflower liqueur, gin, white wine, and fresh fruits for a light and aromatic beverage. The mix of ingredients creates a balance between sweet and tart flavors. The fruity elements add depth and visual appeal to the drink.
This cocktail is easy to make in large batches, making it great for parties. It can be prepared ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together. Guests can serve themselves, leaving the host free to enjoy the event.
Elderflower Gin Sangria Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Large pitcher (2-quart size)
- Long-handled spoon for stirring
- Sharp knife for cutting fruit
- Measuring cups and jigger
- Wine glasses for serving
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make elderflower gin sangria:
- 1 bottle 750 ml dry white wine
- 1 cup gin
- 1/2 cup elderflower liqueur
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 cups mixed fresh fruit sliced peaches, strawberries, and lemon rounds
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 2 cups chilled club soda
Use ripe, in-season fruit for the best flavor. You can swap out fruits based on what’s fresh.
Instructions
Follow these steps to make the sangria:
- Add wine, gin, elderflower liqueur, and lemon juice to a large pitcher. Stir well.
- Add sliced fruit and mint leaves. Gently stir to combine.
- Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours or up to 8 hours.
- Just before serving, add club soda and stir gently.
- Pour into glasses filled with ice. Add some fruit from the pitcher to each glass.
- Garnish with extra mint leaves if desired.
Serve right away and enjoy!
Notes
Tasting Notes
This Elderflower Gin Sangria offers a refreshing blend of flavors. The gin provides a juniper backbone, while elderflower adds floral sweetness. White wine brings a crisp acidity.
Fresh fruit infuses the drink with bright notes. Sliced citrus contributes zesty tang, while berries add pops of juicy sweetness. Apples or pears lend subtle crunch and flavor.
The taste is light and balanced. It’s not too sweet or strong. The alcohol warmth is smooth and gentle. Carbonation from soda water gives a pleasant fizz.
Herbs like mint or basil can add an aromatic touch. A garnish of edible flowers makes for a pretty presentation.
This sangria is best served chilled. Ice helps keep it cool and dilutes the alcohol slightly. The flavors meld together as it sits, creating a harmonious sip.
Substitute
Elderflower gin sangria is a tasty summer drink. You can make some easy swaps if you don’t have all the ingredients.
No elderflower liqueur? Try using honey or simple syrup instead. These will add sweetness, though the flavor will be different.
Don’t have gin? Vodka works well as a substitute. It has a neutral taste that lets the other flavors shine.
White wine can replace sparkling wine. The drink won’t be fizzy, but it will still taste good.
Fresh fruit is best, but frozen fruit can work too. It even helps keep the drink cold.
No lemons? Limes or oranges can add a nice citrus kick.
Here’s a quick list of possible substitutes:
- Honey or simple syrup for elderflower liqueur
- Vodka for gin
- White wine for sparkling wine
- Frozen fruit for fresh fruit
- Limes or oranges for lemons
Remember, changing ingredients may alter the taste. But experimenting can lead to new, yummy versions of this drink.