Liqueur Lowdownis a series that gives you the lowdown on different types of popular liqueurs – what they are, how they taste and how to use them in co*cktails or otherwise! Liqueurs are a form of sweetened liquor that you can use to add flavor to your co*cktails, or simply drink neat for a pre- and post-meal treat!
What Is St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur? How DoesIt Taste?
St-Germain is a French liqueur made with fresh elderflowers, hand-picked once a year during spring. Designed to evoke springtime in a bottle, St-Germain carries a light, floral fragrance, with gentle sweet notes of pear, honeysuckle and lychee. Expect some tartness thataccentsthe sweet, floral profile of elderflower.
How WasSt-GermainCreated?
St-Germain was created by distiller Rob Cooper, who was inspired by the white flowers of the elderflower tree. These white flowers, specifically the species Sambucas Negra, arehandpicked once a year in late-May, usually early in the morningwhen the aroma and flavours of the flowers are at its peak. The delicate flowers are transported by bike (yes, bike!) to the distillery, where they are immediately macerated in grape neutral spirit while fresh.
Fun Fact
The essence of upto one thousand elderflowerscan be found in each Belle Epoque-style bottle of St-Germain!
Other Variations / Substitutes
You can substituteSt-Germain with Giffard Fleur de Sureau Sauvage, St. Elder, and RoomeR Elderflower Aperitif.
How toDrink St-Germain
St Germain's delicatelysweet, floral profilepairs well with lighter, citrus spirits like white wine, champagne, gin and vodka. We recommend using St-Germain in the following co*cktails:
- French Gimlet: A tangy-sweet gin co*cktail made with elderflower liqueur. Mix2 parts gin and 1 part lime juice, before adding St Germain to taste.
- St-Germain Spritz:This is a floral take on the classic Aperol Spritz.Stir together 3 parts sparkling wine (Prosecco or champagne works), 2 parts St Germain and 1 part soda water. Garnish with a lavender sprig.
- Orchard Cooler:Perfect for sipping on the patio. Combine 2 parts St Germain, 3 partsapple juice and 6 partsgingerale in a highball glass with ice. Garnish with a mint sprig.
