Elderflower Martini Cocktail Recipe

|
ByJohn

When I want a cocktail that feels elegant but simple to make, I turn to the Elderflower Martini.

This recipe mixes vodka with elderflower liqueur and a splash of lemon, creating a drink that is light, floral, and easy to enjoy.

Anyone can make it with a few basic ingredients and tools.

I’ll show you exactly how I make my Elderflower Martini, step by step.

The process is quick, and the end result looks impressive whether I’m hosting guests or just relaxing on my own.

If you’re after a cocktail that’s refreshing and a little different, this one’s worth a try.

Elderflower Martini Cocktail Recipe

Elderflower Martini Cocktail Recipe

Elderflower Martini Cocktail Recipe
I like to make an Elderflower Martini because it tastes fresh and floral. It usually needs only a few simple tools and ingredients, so I can prepare it at home without much fuss.
John
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Serving Size 1

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker: I use this to mix the drink well and chill it quickly.
  • Strainer: This helps me pour the liquid smoothly and keep out any ice or solid bits.
  • Jigger: I find it best to use this for measuring spirits and liqueurs accurately.
  • Martini glass: The classic choice for serving; I chill it first for better results.
  • Bar spoon: This lets me gently stir if needed.

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces vodka
  • 1 ounce elderflower liqueur I use St-Germain for best results
  • 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 ounce simple syrup
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon twist or edible flower for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Add vodka, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker.
  • Fill the shaker halfway with ice.
  • Shake hard for about 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels very cold.
  • Strain the drink into a chilled martini glass.
  • Garnish with a lemon twist or an edible flower before serving.
  • I find shaking well is the key to mixing and chilling the ingredients fast.

Notes

If I want a sweeter drink, I add a little more simple syrup.
For a tarter flavor, I use more lemon juice.
I sometimes experiment with other garnishes, like a thin cucumber slice or a sprig of fresh mint.
Substituting gin for vodka also works well if I want extra herbal notes.
Keeping the martini glass chilled before pouring in the cocktail helps the drink stay cold and refreshing.
I adjust ingredient amounts based on how strong and sweet I want each glass to be—there’s no perfect ratio for everyone.

Tasting Notes

When I taste the Elderflower Martini, I first notice its gentle, floral aroma.

The scent is light and sweet, with a slight hint of citrus from the lemon juice.

On my palate, the cocktail is smooth and crisp.

The vodka creates a clean base, while the elderflower liqueur brings in a slightly sweet, perfumed flavor.

I can taste the blend of fruit and flower notes in each sip.

After swallowing, I get a refreshing finish.

There’s a lingering sweetness with gentle citrus, and none of the flavors are too strong or overpowering.

If you prefer a sweeter martini, I suggest adjusting the amount of elderflower liqueur.

For those who enjoy tart drinks, a little extra lemon juice can balance the sweetness—play around with it and see what you like.

Must Have Ingredients

Substitute

Sometimes I just don’t have all the classic ingredients for an Elderflower Martini. When that happens, I’ll improvise with whatever’s on hand so I can still enjoy the cocktail.

Possible Substitutes for Elderflower Liqueur:

  • St. Germain alternative: I might grab another floral liqueur, like rose or lavender. It’s not quite the same, but it gets close enough for me.
  • Homemade syrup: If I’m out of liqueur, I’ll mix elderflower syrup with a splash of vodka. It’s a quick fix that works in a pinch.

Alternative Spirits:

  • Gin: Sometimes I swap vodka for gin. It gives the drink a little herbal kick, which can be nice.
  • White rum: White rum is another option. It changes things up and adds a smoother, slightly different flavor.

Vermouth Options:

  • Dry vermouth: If I run out of sweet vermouth, dry vermouth steps in for a lighter, crisper taste.

Equipment Needed for Substitutes:

Ingredients for Substitute Versions:

  • 2 oz gin or white rum
  • 1 oz floral liqueur or homemade syrup
  • 1/2 oz dry or sweet vermouth
  • Ice
  • Lemon twist (optional)

Instructions for Making Substituted Elderflower Martini:

  • Pour the spirits and liqueur or syrup into a shaker with ice.
  • Give it a good shake until it’s nice and cold.
  • Strain the mix into a martini glass.
  • If you feel like it, add a lemon twist on top for garnish.

Hey there, I’m John Watson—a guy who’s spent over 20 years proving that a good drink can fix just about anything (well, almost anything). Whether it’s cocktails that wow or mocktails that mock boredom, I’m all about crafting sips with stories. Founder of ThirstyTales and full-time drink nerd, I’m here to help you shake things up, one glass at a time. Let’s mix, laugh, and maybe spill a little—cheers to the adventure!

Similar Posts

  • |

    Apricot Ginger Moscow Mule Cocktail Recipe

  • |

    Raspberry Lime Sparkler Cocktail Recipe

  • |

    Pomegranate Ginger Mule Cocktail Recipe

  • |

    Pear and Ginger Vodka Collins Cocktail Recipe

  • |

    Tito’s Pomegranate Fizz Cocktail Recipe

  • |

    Kiwi Mint Smash Cocktail Recipe

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating