The Lemon Elderflower Collins offers a refreshing twist on a classic cocktail. This drink blends the bright zest of lemon with the sweet floral notes of elderflower.
This cocktail’s roots trace back to the traditional Tom Collins, but with a modern update. Elderflower liqueur adds depth and a unique taste that sets this version apart. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy gin-based drinks with a hint of something special.
Mixing up this cocktail at home is easy and fun. With just a few ingredients, anyone can create a bar-quality drink in their own kitchen. It’s sure to impress guests at summer parties or provide a relaxing treat after a long day.
Lemon Elderflower Collins Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Muddler
- Bar spoon
- Collins glass
- Ice
Ingredients
For one cocktail, you’ll need:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz elderflower liqueur
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Club soda
- Ice
- Lemon wheel and mint sprig for garnish
Use a London Dry gin for a classic taste. St-Germain is a popular elderflower liqueur brand. Make simple syrup by mixing equal parts sugar and hot water until dissolved.
Instructions
- Fill a Collins glass with ice and set aside.
- In a shaker, combine gin, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake hard for 10-15 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into the ice-filled Collins glass.
- Top with club soda, about 2-3 oz.
- Stir gently with a bar spoon to mix.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel and mint sprig.
Serve right away while the drink is cold and fizzy.
Notes
Tasting Notes
The Lemon Elderflower Collins offers a bright and refreshing flavor profile. Its taste is a balance of tart lemon, floral elderflower, and crisp gin.
The first sip brings a zesty lemon kick. This citrus burst is quickly followed by the sweet, fragrant notes of elderflower. The gin provides a subtle herbal backdrop that ties the flavors together.
As the drink settles on the palate, the carbonation from the soda water adds a pleasant fizz. This effervescence enhances the cocktail’s light and airy feel.
The finish is clean and crisp. A lingering hint of elderflower and lemon remains, inviting another sip. The cocktail’s sweetness is well-balanced, never overpowering the other elements.
Served over ice, this Collins variation is especially refreshing on warm days. Its flavor combination makes it a versatile choice for various occasions, from casual gatherings to more formal events.
Substitute
If you don’t have elderflower liqueur, there are a few options to try in this cocktail. You can use a simple syrup flavored with lemon zest as a swap. This keeps the bright citrus notes while adding sweetness.
Another choice is to use a floral syrup like lavender or rose. These bring a similar delicate flavor to the drink. Honey syrup also works well to add sweetness with floral hints.
For a non-alcoholic version, leave out the gin and use extra lemon juice and soda water. You can add a splash of non-alcoholic spirit for more flavor depth if desired.
Here’s a quick list of substitutes to try:
- Lemon simple syrup
- Lavender syrup
- Rose syrup
- Honey syrup
- Non-alcoholic spirit
Mix and match these options to create your own spin on the Lemon Elderflower Collins. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find your perfect blend.
