In search of… Elderflower Champagne | Recipe

Elderflower Liquer

You know how Spring just creeps up on you? The dark mornings suddenly slip in to the ether and at 7am it’s light?

Well that’s what Elderflowers are like. They’re in full bloom in June and then bam! Suddenly all that remains are Elderberries. Deliciously jammy and purple, and an excellent metahpor for old ladies’ nipples… but sweet, delicate, yeasty Elderflowers - they are not.

For four years I have failed to find myself plucking the pretty little heads of these bashful blossoms down at the park, or outside of Tesco. I just manage to miss them every bloody year.

This year, it’s March for christ’s sake, I’m determined to catch them in full bloom, because I want, nay, I NEED to make a great big batch of Elderflower Champagne.

Yes! The yeast of the Elderflowers reacts magnificently with sugar and makes bottle blowing bombtastic Elderflower Champagne. Wild Fizz, it should be called and maybe mine will.

So I’ve been researching, trying to find an easy to follow, but comprehensive, Elderflower Champagne recipe, or guide. So far each one I’ve read is different, but the more I read, the more I learn. I’ve collated a few recipes / methods below, but this is by no means an exhaustive list. I could do with some help if there are any experts out there? Links, suggestions, experience, recipes… anything!

Elderflower Champagne recipes / methods:

Farm in my Pocket – Elderflower Champagne: An exciting recipe with buckets and all… I’m not sure there’s enough instruction here for a novice home brewer.

Allotment.org – Elderflower Champagne: Exactly right, accdording to Patricia Stockham… whoever she is. Can she be trusted?

Guardian - How to Make Elderflower Champagne: The favourite recipe thus far – although there’s a few controversial comments. See? This is why I need your advice people.