I love mixing Aviation Gin with elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon juice and simple syrup in a gin and elderflower cocktail that radiates brightness and balance. Each sip reveals lively citrus paired with delicate botanicals, while a lemon twist adds subtle charm. I relish sharing this refreshing twist on a classic cocktail with friends.

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I recently stumbled upon a cocktail that totally blew my mind and I just had to share it with you. The Elderflower Aviation Gin Cocktail is a drink that balances the crisp taste of Aviation Gin (or First Order Gin if you prefer) with the delicate, floral notes of elderflower liqueur.

Add in 3/4 oz of fresh lemon juice and 1/2 oz of simple syrup to give it a real zing, and toss in some ice cubes to chill it to perfection. Then, just a simple lemon twist for garnish is all it takes to finish the look.

I love how the mix of flavors creates a refreshing yet complex drink that is both a modern twist on a gin cocktail and a nod to traditional drinks to try. Its blend of zesty and floral flavors definitely made me a fan and I hope you enjoy experimenting with it too.

Why I Like this Recipe

I really like this recipe because it’s super refreshing and the mix of gin and elderflower liqueur gives it a unique flavor thats hard to beat. I also dig how easy it is to make, the steps are pretty simple and it doesn’t take too long to shake up a glass. Another reason is that the sweetness from the elderflower and simple syrup balances perfectly with the sour lemon juice, making it just right for when I need a pick me up. Plus, I love the little lemon twist garnish cuz it adds a bit of extra style to the drink.

Ingredients

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Aviation Gin: Distilled spirit with botanical hints; provides flavor but no fiber or protein.
Elderflower Liqueur: Sweet, floral liqueur loaded with carbs, offering a fragrant, enchanting taste.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Provides a tangy sour kick with vitamin C and adds zesty brightness.
Simple Syrup: A sugary mix of carbohydrates that sweetens the cocktail and balances acidity.
Ice Cubes and Lemon Twist: Ice chills the drink while lemon twist gifts citrus aroma.
Cocktail Fusion: A balanced mix of botanical, sweet, and sour flavors creates a refreshing delight.
Please note: These ingredients offer taste rather than health benefits so enjoy in moderation.

Ingredient Quantities

2 oz Aviation Gin (or First Order Gin if you prefer)

3/4 oz elderflower liqueur (St. Germain works great)

3/4 oz fresh lemon juice

1/2 oz simple syrup

Ice cubes

Lemon twist for garnish

How to Make this

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1. Fill your cocktail shaker with plenty of ice cubes.

2. Pour in 2 oz of Aviation Gin, or First Order Gin if you prefer.

3. Add 3/4 oz of elderflower liqueur (St. Germain works really great).

4. Squeeze 3/4 oz of fresh lemon juice into the shaker.

5. Pour in 1/2 oz of simple syrup.

6. Give it a good shake for about 15 to 20 seconds.

7. Strain the mix into a chilled cocktail glass.

8. Garnish with a lemon twist.

9. Enjoy your Elderflower Aviation Gin Cocktail while it’s extra refreshing!

Equipment Needed

1. Cocktail shaker
2. Ice cube tray or bag of ice
3. Measuring jigger for liquids
4. Citrus juicer or reamer for fresh lemon juice
5. Cocktail strainer (if your shaker doesn’t have one built in)
6. Chilled cocktail glass
7. Knife or peeler for slicing a lemon twist

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different gin? A: Yeah, you can use any gin you like though Aviation Gin or First Order are designed to complement the elderflower. Other gins might change the flavour a bit.

Q: What if I don't have elderflower liqueur? A: If you don't have it handy you can experiment with a homemade elderflower syrup. It won't taste exactly the same, but it still adds a nice floral kick.

Q: How do I make simple syrup? A: Simple syrup is easy, just mix equal parts water and sugar and heat until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool completely before using it.

Q: Why is fresh lemon juice important? A: Fresh lemon juice gives a bright, natural sourness that you just can't get from bottled juice. It balances the sweetness of the syrup and liqueur really well.

The Elderflower Aviation Gin Cocktail Recipe Substitutions and Variations

If you dont have Aviation Gin, you can use a good quality London Dry Gin which adds a nice traditional juniper flavour.
If St. Germain or any elderflower liqueur ain’t available, try using elderflower syrup mixed with a splash of extra alcohol to get a similar vibe.
If you’re out of fresh lemon juice, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, though its a bit less bright in taste.
For the simple syrup, if you dont have it on hand, you can easily make one by dissolving equal parts sugar and water over low heat and letting it cool.
As a twist on garnish, instead of a lemon twist you can also use a thin lemon slice if that’s what ya have in the fridge.

Pro Tips

1. Make sure your glass is really cold before you pour in the cocktail so it stays chilled longer. You can stick it in the freezer for a few minutes if you have time.
2. Always use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled. Squeezing your own makes a big difference in the flavor and avoids any weird chemicals.
3. When you shake, do it well but not too over the top. About 15-20 seconds is enough to mix everything without making it too diluted.
4. Experiment a little with the garnish. Twisting your lemon peel in a different way can add a fun extra burst of citrus aroma that really makes the drink pop.

The Elderflower Aviation Gin Cocktail Recipe

Recipe by Sam Ecclestone

0.0 from 0 votes

Servings

servings

Calories

238

kcal

Equipment: 1. Cocktail shaker
2. Ice cube tray or bag of ice
3. Measuring jigger for liquids
4. Citrus juicer or reamer for fresh lemon juice
5. Cocktail strainer (if your shaker doesn’t have one built in)
6. Chilled cocktail glass
7. Knife or peeler for slicing a lemon twist

Ingredients

2 oz Aviation Gin (or First Order Gin if you prefer)
3/4 oz elderflower liqueur (St. Germain works great)
3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz simple syrup
Ice cubes
Lemon twist for garnish

Directions

Fill your cocktail shaker with plenty of ice cubes.
Pour in 2 oz of Aviation Gin, or First Order Gin if you prefer.
Add 3/4 oz of elderflower liqueur (St. Germain works really great).
Squeeze 3/4 oz of fresh lemon juice into the shaker.
Pour in 1/2 oz of simple syrup.
Give it a good shake for about 15 to 20 seconds.
Strain the mix into a chilled cocktail glass.
Garnish with a lemon twist.
Enjoy your Elderflower Aviation Gin Cocktail while it's extra refreshing!

Notes

Below you’ll find my best estimate of this recipe’s nutrition facts. Treat the numbers as a guide rather than a rule—great food should nourish both body and spirit. Figures are approximate, and the website owner assumes no liability for any inaccuracies in this recipe.