Liqueur Lowdown is 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 cocktails or otherwise! Liqueurs are a form of sweetened liquor that you can use to add flavor to your cocktails, or simply drink neat for a pre- and post-meal treat!

What Is St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur? How Does It 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 that accents the sweet, floral profile of elderflower.

How Was St-Germain Created?

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, are handpicked once a year in late-May, usually early in the morning when 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 up to one thousand elderflowers can be found in each Belle Epoque-style bottle of St-Germain!

Other Variations / Substitutes

You can substitute St-Germain with Giffard Fleur de Sureau Sauvage, St. Elder, and RoomeR Elderflower Aperitif.

How to Drink St-Germain

St Germain's delicately sweet, floral profile pairs well with lighter, citrus spirits like white wine, champagne, gin and vodka. We recommend using St-Germain in the following cocktails:

• French Gimlet: A tangy-sweet gin cocktail made with elderflower liqueur. Mix 2 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 parts apple juice and 6 parts ginger ale in a highball glass with ice. Garnish with a mint sprig.