Our Summer Blossom Spritz
Cocktails from the Garden: The Summer Blossom Spritz
There’s something magical about plucking ingredients straight from your garden to craft a cocktail that sings with the essence of the season. If you’re like me and have elderberry bushes tucked into your backyard for you and your bees perhaps, you’re in for a treat when late May rolls around and those delicate elderflowers burst into bloom. These tiny, creamy-white blossoms are not only beautiful but also lend a subtle floral sweetness that elevates any drink. Today, I’m sharing a recipe for the Summer Blossom Spritz—a cocktail that captures the soul of summer with its light, bubbly charm and effortlessly chic vibe. Whether you’re hosting a garden party or simply savoring a quiet evening on the patio, this drink is your ticket to summer bliss.
The Inspiration: Elderflowers and Summer Vibes
Elderflowers are the unsung heroes of the garden. Their fleeting bloom in late spring to early summer (typically late May through June) makes them a special ingredient, one that feels like a gift from nature. If you’re lucky enough to have elderberry bushes, you can snip a few fresh elderflower heads to garnish your cocktails or even infuse into homemade syrups. The flowers have a delicate, almost honeyed flavor with hints of pear and lychee, making them a natural match for bright, refreshing drinks. And a perfect addition to the BarBees cocktail recipes!
The Summer Blossom Spritz is inspired by those warm, golden evenings when the air hums with possibility. It’s a celebration of summer’s carefree spirit—think laughter-filled garden parties, soft breezes, and the clink of glasses under twinkling fairy lights. With elderflower as the star, this cocktail balances floral elegance with a zesty kick, thanks to fresh lemon juice and crisp prosecco. It’s bold yet delicate, sweet yet tart, and always a crowd-pleaser.
The Recipe: Summer Blossom Spritz
Ingredients (Serves 1):
1.5 oz elderflower liqueur (like St-Germain) or elderflower syrup
1 oz gin (choose a botanical gin for extra depth)
0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
2 oz prosecco (or sparkling wine)
Fresh edible flowers (like elderflowers, violets, or pansies) or a lemon twist for garnish
Ice
Instructions:
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
Add the elderflower liqueur or syrup, gin, and fresh lemon juice.
Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds to chill and combine the flavors.
Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice (a wine glass or highball works beautifully).
Top with prosecco for that effervescent sparkle.
Garnish with a cluster of fresh elderflowers, other edible flowers, or a lemon twist for a pop of color.
Sip, smile, and let the summer vibes wash over you!
Pro Tip: If you’re using fresh elderflowers, give them a gentle rinse and shake to remove any tiny bugs. Use them sparingly as a garnish, as their flavor can be potent. If elderflowers aren’t in season, edible flowers like violets or pansies from your garden (or a trusted market) make a stunning substitute.
Why This Cocktail Shines
The Summer Blossom Spritz is more than just a drink—it’s an experience. Here’s why it’s destined to be your go-to summer sip:
Light and Refreshing: With a modest alcohol content and a bubbly prosecco finish, this cocktail is perfect for sipping on hot days without overwhelming your palate.
Floral Elegance: The elderflower liqueur or syrup brings a sophisticated floral note that feels luxurious but approachable.
Versatile for Any Occasion: This drink is a showstopper at bridal showers, garden parties, or girls’ nights under the stars. Its gorgeous presentation—especially with those fresh flower garnishes—makes it Instagram-worthy, too.
Garden-to-Glass Appeal: Using homegrown elderflowers (or other edible blooms) connects you to the season and adds a personal touch to your cocktail.
Pairing and Party Ideas
The Summer Blossom Spritz is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are some ideas to make it the centerpiece of your next gathering:
Bridal Shower Bliss: Serve these spritzes alongside a grazing board of fresh fruits, soft cheeses, and macarons. The cocktail’s floral notes complement the delicate flavors of a springtime celebration.
Garden Party Glam: Set up a DIY spritz bar where guests can customize their drinks with different garnishes—think elderflowers, lavender sprigs, or citrus twists. Pair with light bites like cucumber sandwiches or shrimp ceviche.
Girls’ Night Vibes: Host a sunset soirée with a pitcher of Summer Blossom Spritz and a playlist of summery tunes. Add some grilled peach skewers or caprese skewers for a chic, low-effort spread.
For a non-alcoholic version, swap the elderflower liqueur for elderflower cordial, skip the gin, and top with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic sparkling wine. It’s just as refreshing and inclusive for all your guests.
Growing Your Own Elderflowers
If you don’t already have elderberry bushes in your garden, consider planting one! Elderberries (Sambucus nigra or Sambucus canadensis) are hardy, low-maintenance shrubs that thrive in most climates. They produce gorgeous elderflowers in late spring, followed by dark berries in late summer (perfect for syrups or jams). Here’s a quick guide to get started:
Choose a Spot: Elderberries love full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Planting Time: Spring or fall is ideal for planting elderberry shrubs.
Care: Water regularly during the first year, and prune in late winter to encourage growth.
Harvesting Elderflowers: Snip flower heads in the morning when they’re fully open but not wilting. Use them fresh or dry them for later.
Not ready to commit to a shrub? Many farmers’ markets or specialty grocers carry fresh elderflowers during their short season, or you can opt for elderflower liqueur or syrup year-round.
A Toast to Summer
The Summer Blossom Spritz is more than a cocktail—it’s a love letter to summer, to gardens, and to the joy of gathering with friends. Whether you’re toasting a special occasion or simply savoring a quiet moment, this drink brings a touch of magic to every sip. So, head to your garden, pluck a few elderflowers, and mix up a glass of summer. Cheers to warm nights, blooming flowers, and memories made under the stars!
What’s your favorite way to use garden-fresh ingredients in cocktails? Share your ideas in the comments, and let’s raise a glass to summer together!