If you’re looking for an elegant drink to add some sparkle to your evening, this Elderflower Spritz, also known as a St-Germain Spritz, is the answer. Effervescent, subtly floral, and incredibly refreshing, this simple cocktail has just the right balance to brighten any occasion from happy hour or poolside sipping to dinner parties and holidays.
It’s perfect for the summer months, but you can serve it any time of year — it’s bound to become your new favorite cocktail!
Ingredients for an Elderflower Spritz
Crafting the perfect elderflower cocktail begins with selecting the right ingredients to bring it all together. Here’s what you need to create this refreshing drink.
- Elderflower Liqueur – This is the heart of the spritz! Its slightly fruity flavor and floral notes give the cocktail its unique personality. Look for a high-quality bottle to really let those subtle notes shine — we prefer St Germain, a French elderflower liqueur.
- Prosecco Or Sparkling Wine – Choose bubbly Prosecco or a sparkling dry white wine to balance the sweetness of the elderflower liqueur. It adds a lively fizz and festive vibe to the drink.
- Soda Water (Optional) – For a little more carbonation, use soda water to round out the cocktail.
- Fresh Mint Leaves (Optional) – These add a hint of cool freshness and take the presentation up a notch.
- Slice Of Lime Or Lemon (Optional) – A little citrus can brighten the flavors. Lemon and lime slices are also a pretty garnish that adds a pop of bright color.
- Fresh Berries (Optional) – These add a burst of fruity goodness and color.
Variations
The refreshing elderflower spritz cocktail is as customizable as it is classy. Try swapping or adding ingredients to put your own twist on it!
- Rose Liqueur – For a rosy twist, swap the elderflower liqueur with a floral rose version.
- Sparkling Rosé – This gives the drink a gorgeous blush tone.
- Ginger Ale – Add some spicy sweetness for a fall and winter-friendly twist.
- Ice Cubes – Serve the cocktail over crushed ice or ice cubes to keep it chilled.
- Fresh Herbs – Fresh basil, rosemary, or thyme make for stunning garnishes and bring an earthy aroma to the drink.
- Citrus – Add a little lemon juice or lime juice for more citrusy flavor.
- Mocktail – Combine elderflower syrup with sparkling water for a zero-proof twist on this cocktail.
- Cranberry Juice – This juice is perfect for a holiday vibe with a touch of tartness and a beautiful ruby hue.
- Flavored Sparkling Water – Lemon or cucumber sparkling water pairs perfectly with elderflower. You can also use club soda.
- Sweetener – If you’re looking for a sweeter drink, stir in a splash of simple syrup.
- Edible Flowers – Take the presentation to the next level with edible flowers like pansies or violets.
How to Make an Elderflower Spritz
This elegant cocktail comes together effortlessly in just a few steps.
- Start With The Elderflower Liqueur. Pour it into your coupe or wine glass as the base layer of your spritz.
- Add A Hint Of Mint. If using mint, drop a leaf or two into a dish and gently muddle it to release its oils before adding it to the glass.
- Top With Prosecco. Fill your glass with sparkling wine. If you want to include soda water, be sure to leave space for it.
- Garnish. Add a slice of lime, a sprig of mint, or a few fresh berries for a final touch.
Note: You can also shake up this cocktail in a cocktail shaker — just don’t add the fizzy ingredients until pouring the rest into a glass.
Make Ahead and Storage
This spritz is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep elements ahead to save time.
Make Ahead
Whether you’re serving this drink at a large party or mixing it up for smaller gatherings, it’s easy to make ahead so that you have more time to spend with your guests. You can mix the elderflower liqueur and muddled mint. Store in the refrigerator and add Prosecco and garnishes when ready to serve.
How to Store
Store the pre-mixed liqueur and soda in a sealed bottle or jar or airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Common Questions about Elderflower Spritz
Sparkling wine, gin, and citrus are all good pairings with elderflower liqueur.
This delicate cocktail also goes by the name Hugo Spritz when mint and lime are used.
The most popular elderflower spirit is a liqueur made by St-Germain. It’s crafted using actual elderflower blossoms that are harvested in the spring each year.
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Looking for more party-worthy sips? Check out these cocktails that are guaranteed to impress your guests.
Elderflower Spritz
Ingredients
- .5 ounces elderflower liqueur into coupe or wine glass
- 4 ounces Prosecco or sparkling wine
- 1 ounce soda water , optional
- 1 –2 mint leaves , optional
- Slice of lime or lemon , optional
- Fresh berries , optional
Instructions
- Pour 1/2 ounce of the elderflower liqueur into your glass. If using, add the mint and muddle lightly with a spoon. Mint is optional.
- Add the Processo to the top, or for a lighter beverage, leaving about 1 inch and filling the remainder with soda water.
- Spritz with fresh lime or lemon (optional) and or add fresh berries.
- If you’ve tried this recipe, come back and let us know how it was in the comments or star ratings.