Kitchen Notes No. 11

Gin & Elderflower Spritz

Gin brings structure, elderflower softens it, and lemon keeps everything in place. Soda finishes it clean without adding weight.

It’s simple, but it reads finished — which is exactly the point.

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 oz Empress Gin

3/4 oz to 1 oz St. Germain depending on your preference for sweetness

1/2 oz fresh lemon juice

2–3 oz soda water

Ice

METHOD

Add gin, elderflower liqueur, and lemon juice to a glass.

Top with soda water. Add ice.

Stir once, gently, to combine.

Finish with a dehydrated citrus slice.

NOTE

Too much elderflower: too floral and syrupy

Too much gin: harsh and medicinal

You have just a bit of room to adjust for preferences before throwing the delicate balance.