This drink combines the subtle sweetness of elderflower with the cool freshness of cucumber – perfect for warm days or as an elegant aperitif. The London Dry Gin gives it a spicy depth, while the soda water provides the necessary fizz. A long drink that not only tastes good but also looks impressive: the cucumber slices on the glass rim are not just decoration, they release a little aroma with every sip.
Here’s what you need for the Elderflower & Cucumber Fizz
4 cm cucumber (approx. 30 g)
6 cl London Dry Gin
3 cl freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 cl elderflower syrup
Ice cubes
Soda water to top up
Here’s the trick
The secret lies in the cucumber mash: many recipes simply add the cucumber, but if you lightly press it in the shaker, you’ll only release the essential oils – not the bitter compounds from the skin or seeds. Important: the cucumber must be fresh and crisp, otherwise the drink will taste watery. And don’t shake the drink for too long, otherwise the soda water will lose its fizz later. A short, vigorous shake is enough.
Variations
- Virgin Elderflower & Cucumber Fizz — Replace the gin with 6 cl cold tonic water and build the drink directly in the glass. Press the cucumber as in the original, but shake only with lemon juice and elderflower syrup, then top up with ice and tonic. Surprisingly complex in taste – the bitterness of the tonic gives the drink structure.
- Elderflower & Cucumber Smash — For a more intense cucumber note: crush 6 cucumber cubes (approx. 50 g), unpeeled, in the shaker with 1 cl sugar syrup and 2 cl lemon juice. Add 5 cl gin and 1 cl elderflower syrup, shake and strain over crushed ice. Garnish with a splash of soda water and a cucumber rose.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make the elderflower syrup myself?
Yes, but it should be clear and not too sweet. Steep fresh elderflowers with lemon slices and sugar water (1:1) for 24 hours, then strain through a fine sieve. For this drink, use a syrup with 2 parts sugar to 1 part water – a stronger syrup would overpower the gin.
Why does my drink taste like cucumber water?
Either the cucumber was old or you crushed it too much. Use only fresh, firm cucumbers and press them lightly until they give slightly. The skin and seeds contain bitter compounds that can ruin the drink.
Can I use something other than soda water?
Of course – try it with tonic water for a slightly bitter note or with ginger beer for more heat. Both variations change the character of the drink but pair well with the elderflower aroma. Make sure the carbonation isn’t too dominant.
