Elderflower Collins Recipe

Juice and combine

Measure and squeeze 1 oz (about half a large lemon) of fresh lemon juice into a shaker or mixing glass. Add 0.75 oz elderflower cordial (or liqueur) and 0.5 oz simple syrup if using cordial; if using a sweet elderflower liqueur reduce or omit the simple syrup to taste.

Add spirit and chill

Pour 2 oz gin into the shaker with the citrus and elderflower components. Add a handful of ice to the shaker (enough to fill roughly halfway) and shake vigorously for 8–12 seconds until well chilled and slightly diluted.

Prepare glass

Fill a Collins or highball glass with ice to the top. If you prefer a slightly colder glass, pre-chill it in the freezer for a few minutes.

Strain and top

Strain the shaken mixture into the prepared glass over fresh ice. Top with about 3 oz cold club soda (adjust to taste) and give a gentle stir 2–3 times to combine without flattening the bubbles.

Trim a lemon wheel and place it on the rim or float it in the drink. Gently slap the mint sprig between your palms to release its aroma and tuck it beside the lemon wheel or float it on top. If you have edible elderflower, float a small blossom for a delicate finish.

Taste and adjust: If the drink tastes too tart, add 0.25 oz simple syrup and stir. If too sweet, add a splash more lemon juice or reduce soda slightly.

Serve immediately with a straw or stirring stick.