Spiced Elderflower Sour Cocktail Recipe

I’m always on the hunt for new flavors, and lately, the Spiced Elderflower Sour has totally won me over. There’s something about the way the sweet, floral elderflower liqueur mingles with a hint of spice—it’s not your average sour, that’s for sure.

It’s simple, super refreshing, and honestly works just as well for a quiet evening as it does for a laid-back get-together with friends.

The Spiced Elderflower Sour is a fun, easy way to shake up your usual cocktail lineup. If you’re already a fan of elderflower drinks or maybe you’ve tried an elderflower mocktail, you’ll probably notice right away how the spices give this version a little extra personality.

I’m pretty excited to walk you through how to make it at home. Trust me, your friends will be impressed.

Spiced Elderflower Sour Cocktail Recipe

This is hands down one of my go-to drinks when I’m playing host. There’s just something about that combo of floral, tart, and spicy notes that keeps me coming back.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker: I usually grab a standard metal one for this.
• Coupe glass or chilled stemmed glass: Coupe glasses just look great and fit this drink perfectly.
• Jigger or measuring shot glass: Getting the measurements right really does matter.
• Fine mesh strainer: You’ll want that smooth, silky finish—no pulp or ice bits.
• Bar spoon: Helpful for a gentle stir if you need it.
• Citrus juicer: Squeezing lemons by hand is fine, but a juicer makes it so much easier.
• Small bowl: For prepping garnishes—edible flowers or rose petals, if you’re feeling fancy.
• Ice: Always have fresh, clean ice for shaking.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz St-Germain elderflower liqueur (or any elderflower liqueur you like)
• 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 3/4 oz simple syrup (or elderflower syrup/cordial if you want it extra floral)
• 1 egg white (or 2 tbsp aquafaba for a vegan-friendly option)
• 2-3 dashes aromatic bitters (Angostura’s my usual, but any spiced bitters are great)
• Edible flowers or fresh rose petals for garnish
• Lemon zest or a twist for garnish
• Ice (for shaking)

Instructions

• Pour the vodka, St-Germain, lemon juice, simple syrup (or elderflower syrup/cordial), and egg white (or aquafaba) into your cocktail shaker.
• Give it a dry shake (no ice) for about 15 seconds—this helps get that nice foam going.
• Toss in some ice and shake again until the shaker feels super cold, maybe 20 seconds or so.
• Double strain everything into a chilled coupe glass using your fine mesh strainer.
• Add 2-3 dashes of aromatic bitters right on top of the foam.
• Finish it off with some edible flowers or rose petals, and a little strip of lemon zest.

Notes

Honestly, it’s the lemon juice that keeps this drink feeling bright and lively. If you can, go for St-Germain or a really good elderflower liqueur—the floral flavor just pops more.

Sometimes I’ll swap out the egg white for aquafaba if someone wants a vegan version. The foam is just as creamy, and you hardly notice the difference in taste.

If I’m in the mood for more spice, I’ll sneak in an extra dash of bitters.

For the garnish, tiny edible flowers or pale pink rose petals look gorgeous and add a subtle scent.

Serving it in a coupe glass is my favorite—the foam sits up top, and every sip just feels a little more special.

Tasting Notes

When I take a sip of this Spiced Elderflower Sour, the first thing that hits me is how fresh and floral it tastes. That St Germain elderflower liqueur brings a gentle sweetness—kind of reminds me of the classic elderflower martini, though honestly, this one has a bit more going on.

There’s a soft hint of baking spices from the syrup and bitters. It’s warm, but not in-your-face or anything.

The sourness? It’s crisp, light, and honestly pretty lively. Lemon juice gives it a zesty pop that holds the sweetness in check.

Every sip feels refreshing, and there’s this nice, soft fizz that comes from shaking it up well.

I really like how those elderflower notes play with the citrus and spice. It just ends up so smooth and easy to drink.

Perfect for sipping slowly, if you ask me.

Texture:

• Silky mouthfeel
• Light froth from shaking

Flavors:

• Floral (elderflower)
• Sweet and tart
• Subtle spice

It’s a gentle twist on an elderflower martini—more layers, more complexity. The floral taste feels a bit special, and that spice? Makes it just right for those late summer evenings, in my opinion.