Tangerine and elderflower blend beautifully in this refreshing martini. The sweet citrus and floral notes create a unique twist on a classic cocktail. This recipe is perfect for those looking to impress guests at their next dinner party or happy hour.
The tangerine juice adds a bright, zesty flavor while the elderflower liqueur brings a subtle sweetness. Vodka provides a smooth base, allowing the other flavors to shine. A splash of lime juice balances the drink with a hint of tartness.
This cocktail is easy to make at home with just a few ingredients. It’s a great choice for spring and summer gatherings, but can be enjoyed year-round. The vibrant orange color makes it as visually appealing as it is tasty.
Tangerine Elderflower Martini Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Strainer
- Martini glass
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Citrus juicer
- Ice
Ingredients
For one cocktail:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz elderflower liqueur
- 1 oz fresh tangerine juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Ice
- Tangerine twist for garnish
Use good quality vodka for the best taste. Fresh tangerine juice is much better than bottled. To make simple syrup, mix equal parts sugar and water in a pan. Heat until the sugar dissolves, then cool before using.
Instructions
- Fill the cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add vodka, elderflower liqueur, tangerine juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Shake well for 10-15 seconds to chill and mix the drink.
- Strain into the chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a tangerine twist.
To make the twist, cut a strip of tangerine peel with a vegetable peeler. Twist it over the drink to release the oils, then drop it in. The oils add extra flavor and scent to the cocktail.
Notes
Tasting Notes
The Tangerine Elderflower Martini offers a bright and refreshing flavor profile. Its taste is a balance of sweet and tart notes.
The tangerine juice provides a zesty citrus punch. It brings a natural sweetness and slight acidity to the drink. Meanwhile, the elderflower liqueur adds a floral sweetness with hints of pear and lychee.
Vodka forms the cocktail’s base, giving it a clean and crisp backdrop. The lemon juice adds a sharp, sour element that cuts through the sweetness.
On the nose, the drink presents strong aromas of tangerine and elderflower. These scents create an inviting first impression.
The cocktail’s mouthfeel is smooth and light. It has a silky texture that glides easily across the palate.
As for the finish, it leaves a lingering taste of citrus and flowers. This aftertaste is pleasant and not too overpowering.
The drink’s color is a pale orange, reminiscent of a sunset. This hue comes from the tangerine juice and adds to its visual appeal.
When served chilled, the Tangerine Elderflower Martini is incredibly refreshing. It’s an ideal choice for warm weather or as an aperitif.
Substitute
Tangerine juice and elderflower liqueur are key ingredients in this cocktail. But what if you don’t have them on hand?
No worries! There are tasty alternatives you can try.
For tangerine juice, orange juice works well. It has a similar sweet-tart flavor.
You can also use mandarin or clementine juice for a closer match.
No elderflower liqueur? Try these options:
- St-Germain (if you can find it)
- Lychee liqueur
- Pear liqueur
- Simple syrup with a splash of lemon juice
The vodka can be swapped for gin if you prefer. This will add some herbal notes to the drink.
For a non-alcoholic version, use soda water instead of vodka. Add a bit more fruit juice to make up for the lost volume.
These swaps may change the flavor slightly. But they’ll still result in a yummy drink. Feel free to adjust amounts to suit your taste.
With these substitutes, you can enjoy a tasty spin on the Tangerine Elderflower Martini any time!