If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your next gathering, St Germain cocktails are a great choice. Known for its delicate elderflower flavor, St Germain liqueur brings a floral and slightly sweet note to any drink.
In this article, you’ll discover 15 delightful St Germain cocktail recipes that range from classic to creative. Whether you prefer something bubbly and effervescent or a drink with a botanical twist, there’s a recipe here to elevate your cocktail-making game.
1) Classic St Germain Spritz
The Classic St Germain Spritz is a light and refreshing cocktail, perfect for summer. This drink blends elderflower liqueur with sparkling wine and soda water.
Start by filling a glass with ice. Then, pour in 2 ounces of St Germain.
Next, add 3 ounces of Prosecco or any sparkling wine. This gives the drink its bubbly texture.
Top it off with 1 ounce of soda water. This lightens the drink and adds a touch of fizz.
For a final touch, squeeze a wedge of lemon into the glass. It adds a zesty aroma and flavor.
If you want to make it look fancy, garnish with a sprig of thyme. This herb pairs well with the floral notes of the St Germain.
Now, your Classic St Germain Spritz is ready to enjoy. It’s easy to make and delightful to sip. This cocktail is great for brunch, aperitifs, or any gathering with friends. Give it a try and elevate your next get-together.
2) St Germain Margarita
A St Germain Margarita is a delightful twist on the traditional margarita.
To start, you’ll need elderflower liqueur, typically St Germain, tequila, and fresh lime juice. First, prepare your glass by rimming it with salt. Rub a lime wedge around the edge, then dip it into salt.
Next, fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add St Germain, tequila, and fresh lime juice. Shake vigorously until the mixture is well chilled.
Strain the mixture into your prepared glass filled with ice. This will keep your cocktail nice and cold. For a final touch, garnish with a lime wedge on the rim of the glass.
The St Germain adds a floral sweetness to the classic margarita, making it a smooth and refreshing drink. Enjoy responsibly!
3) Elderflower Martini
The Elderflower Martini offers a refreshing twist on the classic martini. It combines the crisp taste of gin or vodka with the floral notes of St Germain elderflower liqueur.
To make this cocktail, start by filling a shaker with ice. Add your choice of vodka or gin. Squeeze a wedge of fresh lemon into the mix for a bright, citrusy touch.
Next, pour in the elderflower liqueur. Stir the mixture with a long spoon or shake the shaker to combine the ingredients well. This step ensures that the flavors meld together perfectly.
Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass. For a touch of elegance, garnish your Elderflower Martini with a lemon twist. If you want to add a bit of flair, you can include thin cucumber slices.
This drink is perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to formal events. Its unique flavor profile makes it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. Give it a try and enjoy the delicate balance of floral and citrus notes.
4) St Germain Mojito
The St Germain Mojito is a refreshing twist on the classic mojito. This cocktail blends the floral notes of St Germain elderflower liqueur with the traditional flavors of rum, lime, and mint.
To start, muddle fresh mint leaves with sugar in a sturdy glass. This releases the mint’s fragrant oils.
Next, add white rum, St Germain, and freshly squeezed lime juice to the glass. Fill the glass with ice and stir the mixture well.
Top off your cocktail with a splash of soda water for some fizz. Garnish with a sprig of mint and a slice of lime to add a bright, fresh look.
This drink is perfect for warm days and brings a unique flavor twist to a beloved classic.
5) St Germain Bellini
The St Germain Bellini is a refreshing twist on the classic Bellini. You’ll love how the floral notes of elderflower liqueur complement the fruity sweetness of fresh peach puree.
To make this cocktail, start by adding two tablespoons of peach puree into a champagne flute.
Next, pour in one tablespoon of St Germain elderflower liqueur. These ingredients work together to create a balanced and delightful flavor.
Top off the mixture with chilled Prosecco. Make sure to pour slowly to maintain the bubbles.
Gently stir the drink to blend the flavors without losing too much fizz.
Garnish your St Germain Bellini with a peach slice or a twist of lemon peel. This touch adds both visual appeal and a hint of extra flavor.
Enjoy your St Germain Bellini at brunch or as a light aperitif.
6) St Germain Gin and Tonic
The St Germain Gin and Tonic is a refreshing twist on the classic gin and tonic. It brings a floral note to the traditional cocktail, making it light and perfect for a sunny day.
You’ll need gin, tonic water, and St Germain elderflower liqueur. The elderflower liqueur adds a slightly sweet and aromatic flavor.
Start by filling a glass with ice cubes. Pour in the gin and St Germain. A typical ratio is one part St Germain to two parts gin, but you can adjust this to taste.
Top up the glass with tonic water. Give it a gentle stir to mix the ingredients. This helps to blend the flavors evenly.
Garnish the drink with a slice of lemon or lime and a sprig of mint. These add a touch of color and enhance the freshness.
Enjoy this delightful cocktail as a sophisticated upgrade to the standard gin and tonic. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
7) St Germain Sangria
St Germain Sangria is a refreshing twist on the traditional sangria. This version uses elderflower liqueur to add a floral note that pairs wonderfully with fruity flavors.
Start by soaking fresh peaches in St Germain for about an hour. This step infuses the peaches with the delicate elderflower taste.
Combine the soaked peaches, lime slices, strawberries, and raspberries in a large pitcher. The blend of fruits adds a sweet and tangy profile to your sangria.
Add a bottle of white wine, like a crisp Prosecco, to the pitcher. Stir to mix the ingredients well.
Top your sangria with soda water or a lemon-lime soda if you prefer a sweeter drink. Serve your St Germain Sangria over ice.
Garnish each glass with mint sprigs and edible flowers for an added touch of elegance. This sangria is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light, refreshing drink anytime.
8) Elderflower Fizz
Elderflower Fizz is a refreshing cocktail that combines floral and citrus flavors. You will need vodka, St-Germain elderflower liqueur, lime sour, and agave nectar.
Start by adding these ingredients to a shaker with ice and shake until well-chilled. Strain the mixture into a Champagne flute.
Top off the cocktail with sparkling wine for a bubbly finish. Slap a thyme sprig between your palms to release its oils. Use it to gently stir the drink, then leave it in as a garnish.
This cocktail balances sweetness and bitterness, making it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the light and aromatic Elderflower Fizz whenever you need a refreshing drink.
9) St Germain Lemonade
St Germain Lemonade is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail.
Start by filling a glass with ice. Pour in two ounces of St Germain elderflower liqueur.
Add the juice of one lemon to give it a zesty kick. Top it off with soda water.
Stir the mixture gently.
Garnish with a slice of lemon and a sprig of mint.
10) St Germain French 75
The St Germain French 75 is a delightful twist on a classic cocktail. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for celebrations.
To make this cocktail, you’ll need gin, St Germain, fresh lemon juice, and sparkling wine. Start by juicing a lemon and setting aside the juice. You can also make a lemon twist for garnish.
Next, combine 1 1/2 ounces of gin, 1/2 ounce of St Germain, and 3/4 ounce of fresh lemon juice in a cocktail shaker. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
Strain the mixture into a champagne flute. Top off with chilled sparkling wine, such as Prosecco or Champagne.
Garnish with the lemon twist for a touch of elegance. This cocktail is both effervescent and floral, making it a hit at any gathering. Enjoy your St Germain French 75 responsibly.
11) Elderflower Mimosa
An Elderflower Mimosa adds a floral twist to the classic mimosa. You will need elderflower liqueur, Prosecco, and freshly squeezed orange juice.
Begin by filling a champagne flute halfway with Prosecco or sparkling wine. This creates a refreshing base.
Next, add a splash of elderflower liqueur. This enhances the drink with delicate floral notes.
Top off the glass with freshly squeezed orange juice. Make sure to stir the mimosa gently.
For a lovely garnish, you can add an orange twist or a few fresh berries. The garnish adds a touch of color and elegance to your drink.
Enjoy your Elderflower Mimosa at brunches or celebrations. It’s a simple yet delightful cocktail that will impress your guests.
12) St Germain Collins
A St Germain Collins is a refreshing twist on the classic Tom Collins.
You start by filling a tall glass with ice. Next, pour in 1.5 oz of gin and 1 oz of St Germain.
Add the juice of half a lemon. This adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the floral notes of the elderflower liqueur.
Top the drink with club soda to give it a fizzy finish. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
To garnish, use a lemon wheel or a twist of lemon peel. This not only looks appealing but adds a bit of extra lemon aroma.
The St Germain Collins is light and refreshing, making it a great drink for warm weather or any gathering. You will appreciate its delicate balance of flavors.
## 13) St Germain Daiquiri
The St Germain Daiquiri is a delightful twist on the classic daiquiri. You mix lime juice, rum, and St Germain elderflower liqueur. This combination gives a floral and slightly sweet flavor to the traditional tartness of the daiquiri.
Start by adding freshly squeezed lime juice and sugar into a shaker. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Add your St Germain elderflower liqueur and rum next.
Fill your shaker with ice and shake vigorously. This ensures your drink is properly chilled and well-mixed. Fine strain the mixture into a chilled coupette glass to remove any ice shards.
This cocktail is perfect for a summer evening. The floral notes from the St Germain add a refreshing touch to the classic daiquiri, making it an elegant choice for any occasion.
14) Elderflower Pimm’s Cup
The Elderflower Pimm’s Cup is a refreshing summer drink with a twist. It combines the classic Pimm’s No. 1 with the floral notes of St Germain elderflower liqueur.
Start with a tall glass filled with ice. Add a generous measure of Pimm’s No. 1, followed by a shot of St Germain.
Next, pour in your choice of sparkling lemonade or ginger ale. Stir gently to mix the flavors.
Garnish with a mix of fresh fruits like cucumber, strawberries, and orange slices. Add a sprig of mint for extra freshness.
This cocktail is perfect for a sunny afternoon. The blend of citrus and floral flavors creates a light and enjoyable drink that’s easy to make and share.
15) St Germain Paloma
The St Germain Paloma is a delightful twist on the classic Paloma cocktail. This version combines tequila, rosé wine, elderflower liqueur, and grapefruit soda.
Start by filling a highball glass with ice. Then, pour in 30 ml of St Germain Elderflower Liqueur, 15 ml of Patrón Silver Tequila, and 35 ml of rosé wine.
Top off the drink with 80 ml of grapefruit soda. Give your cocktail a gentle stir to mix the ingredients evenly.
For a touch of flair, garnish your St Germain Paloma with a grapefruit wedge. This drink is perfect for a refreshing summer day. Enjoy it with friends and family for a light, floral treat.
The Origin and History of St Germain
St Germain liqueur has a unique backstory and several key moments in its development. Learning about its origins and milestones can deepen your appreciation for this delightful beverage.
The Story Behind the Liqueur
St Germain liqueur, pronounced “Sang zhair-MANG,” is made from elderflowers. These small, white blossoms are picked each spring from elderberry plants in Europe. The liqueur was created by Rob Cooper, an American third-generation distiller, who launched it in 2007. The idea came to him after he was inspired by a Parisian bartender’s elderflower cocktail.
The hand-picked elderflowers are processed quickly to maintain their delicate aroma. Each bottle of St Germain contains the essence of up to 1,000 elderflower blossoms. This attention to detail results in a sweet, floral taste that has become a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.
Key Milestones
2007: St Germain liqueur was introduced, revolutionizing the cocktail world with its unique flavor. It quickly gained popularity among bartenders for its versatility in mixing.
2013: The brand was acquired by Bacardi Limited, a global spirits company. This acquisition helped expand St Germain’s presence worldwide, making it easier to find in bars and stores.
Awards: Since its launch, St Germain has won multiple awards, including titles at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. These accolades highlight its high quality and the skill that goes into crafting each bottle.
St Germain continues to be celebrated for its distinct, floral taste and its ability to enhance a variety of cocktails.
Understanding the Flavor Profile
St Germain, a French elderflower liqueur, offers a unique mix of ingredients and tasting notes that set it apart. Exploring its main ingredients and how they influence its flavor can help you understand how to use it effectively in cocktails.
Main Ingredients
The primary ingredient in St Germain is fresh elderflowers, harvested annually in the French Alps. Each bottle contains around 1,000 elderflower blossoms. These flowers impart a distinct floral aroma and sweetness.
Additionally, the liqueur includes a small amount of sugar, which boosts its sweetness and balances the floral notes. The base spirit is un-aged eau-de-vie, a clear fruit brandy that adds a clean, crisp finish.
These ingredients combine to create the signature taste of St Germain. You’ll find it sweet but not cloying, with a rich floral bouquet that’s both intriguing and versatile.
Tasting Notes
When tasting St Germain, you first notice the intense floral aroma. There’s a sweetness similar to lychee, pear, and tropical fruits mingled with subtle citrus hints. This initial burst of flavor is balanced by a mild acidity that keeps the sweetness in check.
You may also detect a hint of honeysuckle and a touch of herbal undertones. The finish is clean and slightly dry, making it an excellent complement to a variety of spirits, especially gin, vodka, and sparkling wines.
Thanks to its balanced and nuanced profile, St Germain enhances cocktails without overwhelming them. It provides an elegant and sophisticated twist, making even simple drinks feel special.
Tips for Mixing St Germain Cocktails
Mixing St Germain cocktails involves selecting the right ingredients and perfecting your technique to bring out the best flavors. Pay attention to the balance and harmony of taste as you follow these guidelines.
Selecting the Right Ingredients
Choosing the best ingredients is crucial for making delicious St Germain cocktails. Start with fresh citrus juices like lemon, lime, or grapefruit to provide acidity. Fresh juices help highlight the elderflower’s natural sweetness.
Use high-quality spirits such as vodka, gin, or Prosecco. The elderflower liqueur pairs well with these bases. Each spirit brings a different character to the cocktail, so select based on the flavor profile you prefer.
Incorporate fresh herbs like mint, thyme, or basil to add a herbal note. These herbs can complement the floral undertones of St Germain, creating a more nuanced drink.
Keep in mind that using one large ice cube or a few smaller ones can help control the dilution rate while keeping your cocktail cold.
Perfecting the Technique
When making a St Germain cocktail, attention to technique ensures the best result. Use a cocktail shaker for drinks that include juices and syrups. Shaking thoroughly blends the ingredients and chills the mixture properly.
For cocktails with sparkling wine or soda, add these last and stir gently. This preserves the carbonation, making the drink light and fizzy.
Dry shaking, which means shaking without ice, can be important when incorporating egg whites. This process helps create a silky froth. After dry shaking, add ice and shake again to chill.
If muddling herbs or fruits, do so gently. Over-muddling can release bitter flavors. A few light presses will release their essential oils without overpowering the drink.
