Elderflower French 75: A Floral Champagne Dream

Introduction

The first time I sipped an Elderflower French 75, I felt like I’d stepped into a classic Parisian café. It was a warm spring afternoon, and the delicate, floral notes of elderflower combined with the crisp sparkle of champagne felt like pure elegance in a glass. I’ve always loved the timeless charm of a French 75, but the addition of elderflower liqueur gives this cocktail an irresistible twist. It’s sweet yet light, bubbly yet sophisticated—a drink that feels like a celebration with every sip.

This floral version of the classic French 75 is perfect for so many occasions. Hosting a brunch? It’s an instant crowd-pleaser. Celebrating a milestone? The champagne adds a touch of glamour. Or maybe you’re just treating yourself to something special—this cocktail can turn any moment into something extraordinary.

In this post, I’ll show you how to craft the perfect Elderflower French 75, share some tips for personalizing it, and offer creative twists to suit every mood. Let’s get started!

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Why You’ll Love the Elderflower French 75

A Refreshing Floral Twist

The classic French 75 is already a favorite for its bright, citrusy notes, but elderflower liqueur adds a subtle floral sweetness that elevates it to the next level.

Effortlessly Elegant

This cocktail is stunning in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a drink that looks and tastes like it belongs in a fine dining restaurant.

Versatile and Timeless

Whether you’re toasting a celebration, hosting a bridal shower, or simply relaxing on the patio, the Elderflower French 75 is always a perfect fit.

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Ingredients for the Perfect Elderflower French 75

Core Ingredients

• Gin: London dry gin works well for a classic taste, but a floral gin can complement the elderflower beautifully.
• Elderflower Liqueur: St-Germain is the go-to choice for its sweet, floral profile.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and balances the sweetness.
• Champagne: Opt for a brut champagne or prosecco to keep the cocktail light and refreshing.

Optional Additions

• Simple Syrup: If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, add a touch of simple syrup.
• Bitters: A dash can add complexity to the drink.

Garnishes

• Lemon twist
• Edible flowers
• Fresh herbs like thyme or mint

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Step-by-Step Guide to Making an Elderflower French 75

1. Chill Your Glass

Place a champagne flute or coupe glass in the freezer for a few minutes to chill.

2. Mix the Ingredients

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine:

• 1 ounce of gin
• 0.5 ounce of elderflower liqueur
• 0.5 ounce of fresh lemon juice

Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds to mix and chill the ingredients.

3. Strain into the Glass

Strain the mixture into your chilled glass.

4. Top with Champagne

Slowly pour 3–4 ounces of champagne over the mixture. Stir gently to combine.

5. Garnish and Serve

Garnish with a lemon twist or an edible flower for a touch of elegance. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Creative Variations of the Elderflower French 75

Rosé Elderflower French 75

Swap the champagne for sparkling rosé to add a pop of color and fruity flavor.

Lavender Elderflower French 75

Add a splash of lavender syrup or garnish with a sprig of fresh lavender for a floral twist.

Cucumber Elderflower French 75

Muddle a few slices of cucumber in the shaker before adding the other ingredients for a refreshing, garden-inspired variation.

Non-Alcoholic Elderflower Spritz

Replace the gin with Seedlip Garden (a non-alcoholic spirit) and use a non-alcoholic sparkling wine to create a family-friendly version.

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Picture Gallery

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Tips for Serving the Elderflower French 75

• Choose High-Quality Ingredients: The simplicity of this cocktail means every ingredient shines. Use fresh lemon juice, a good-quality gin, and a brut champagne for the best results.
• Chill Everything: Keep your champagne and glasses chilled to ensure the drink stays crisp and refreshing.
• Experiment with Presentation: A lemon twist is classic, but edible flowers or a sprig of thyme can take the presentation to the next level.

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Conclusion

The Elderflower French 75 is a cocktail that exudes elegance and charm. Its blend of floral, citrus, and bubbly flavors makes it perfect for any occasion, whether you’re toasting to a special event or simply enjoying a quiet moment of luxury. The first time I served this drink at a bridal shower, it was an instant hit—guests raved about its unique flavor and gorgeous presentation.

What I love most about this cocktail is how easy it is to make, yet how impressive it looks and tastes. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a drink that feels like a special occasion in itself. And with so many ways to customize it, the Elderflower French 75 is a cocktail you’ll never tire of.

So why not treat yourself (and your guests) to this floral champagne dream? Cheers to creating moments of joy, one glass at a time!

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FAQ

Can I use prosecco instead of champagne?

Absolutely! Prosecco is a great alternative, especially if you prefer a slightly sweeter sparkling wine.

What’s the best gin for this cocktail?

A classic London dry gin works well, but a floral gin like Hendrick’s or Bombay Sapphire will enhance the elderflower notes beautifully.

How can I make the drink less sweet?

Use a brut champagne or prosecco and reduce the amount of elderflower liqueur slightly.

Can I prepare this drink in advance?

You can mix the gin, elderflower liqueur, and lemon juice ahead of time. Keep the mixture chilled and add the champagne just before serving to preserve the bubbles.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of elderflower liqueur?

Yes! You can use elderflower cordial or syrup as a non-alcoholic substitute for St-Germain.