The Bottom Line: "Instant classic" is a contradiction in terms. That aside, this clean-tasting elderflower liqueur, a versatile cocktail ingredient and good in its own right, is an instant classic.
bkalafut's Full Review: St Germain Elderflower Liqueur
St. Germain elderflower liqueur is a standout among recent introductions to the spirit market.
A pale golden liqueur--a real liqueur, not an infused vodka or a rum with the girly-drink flavors already mixed in, and certainly nothing aimed at the frat-party set--sold in a distinctive tall, Art Nouveau-style bottle, on the liquor-store shelf it looks like something that's always been there despite its 2007 release. Intended as a fresher-tasting and more refined replacement for elderflower syrup in several cocktails, including a few wine drinks nearly unknown on this side of the pond, it's one of those products that has virtually created its own demand, with quite a few cocktails created by bartenders following its release, and recipes for its use in food beginning to circulate as well.
In short, St. Germain elderflower liqueur is an instant classic, to be mentioned in the same breath as Cointreau, Amaretto di Saronno, or Campari. Describing it is a bit of a challenge. It has a very clean elderflower taste; the manufactuer's website tells of locals on bicycles bringing in elderflowers by the basketful, probably for steam distillation--the precise nature of the process is kept secret. However it is obtained, the elderflower flavor is mixed with grape spirit, a bit of citrus flavoring, and cane sugar. The result is distinctly floral. Explanation by comparison is more possible than in the cases of cinnamon or chile pepper (try telling someone what cinnamon tastes like without being self-referential); elderflower is a bit like lychee, a bit like pear, and a bit like grapefruit rind.
As it's only moderately sweet, St. Germain can be had neat or on the rocks, although I hear most often of it being mixed as a long drink--a 1:3 ratio seems to be best--with mineral water or club soda. I give two cocktail recipes below; many more can be found on the manufacturer's website or elsewhere on the Web. St. Germain goes well with pear flavors and vegetal white wines like sauvignon blanc.
It's pricy at $30/bottle, but a little goes a long way. I recommend it highly, but as with anything with a floral tate, it may not be for everyone. Try some at a bar or in a 50 ml mini first before spending the money.
Cocktail recipes using St. Germain: French 77
Not to be confused with the perhaps inferior French 75, made with gin, lemon, sugar, and sparkling wine, or the downright senseles French 76, which substitutes vodka for the gin, the French 77 makes Champagne or similar dry white wine more palatable for those who don't care for it in a little more subtle a manner than the similar Kir Royale.
Ingredients: 1 shot St. Germain elderflower liqueur ⅓ shot fresh squeezed lemon juice Well-chilled brut Champagne or similar dry sparkling white wine lemon twist for garnish (optional) Directions: Shake St. Germain and lemon juice with ice, strain into a Champagne flute and top off with sparkling white wine. Garnish with a twist.
St. Germain Cocktail
This long drink is the signature preparation being promoted by the manufacturer. Similar preparations are reputed to have been made using elderflower syrup. A variation calls for sparkling wine in place of the soda water.
Ingredients: 2 shots St. Germain elderflower liqueur 2 shots sauvignon blanc club soda orange slice.
Directions: Into an ice-filled Collins glass, pour the wine, then the St. Germain. Top with club soda, mix gently with a straw or muddler; garnish with the slice.
St Germain Elderflower Liqueur is 20% abv / 40 proof artisinal French liqueur that is available in limited quantities It is a very light pale gold col...More at Witty's Fine Wine
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