Elderflower Vodka Spritz

The first time I mixed up this elderflower spritz, I wasn’t trying to impress anybody—I just wanted something cold, floral, and a little bit fancy to sip while I sat outside and let the sound of the pool waterfalls wash over the quiet evening. What I ended up with was a fizzy, light cocktail that danced with hints of fresh elderflowers, a tart bite from cranberry juice, and that gentle ginger beer tickle that makes your nose crinkle. 

It’s the kind of drink that looks like it came off a cocktail bar menu but comes together with what you’ve probably already got in the pantry. No cocktail shaker, no showboating—just clean, bright flavor in a tall, chilled glass. And around here, that’s all I really need to call it a good day.

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Why You’ll Love This Sparkling Elderflower Cocktail

• It’s a fizzy elderflower cocktail that feels fancy but comes together in minutes.
• Full of fruity flavor and floral notes. The cranberry and elderflower combo is crisp, refreshing, and not overly sweet.
• It’s a showstopper. Like that one guest at the party who brings homemade biscuits and perfect hair, this drink always turns heads.
• Flexible and easy to batch. Add a splash of sparkling wine for extra bubbles or adjust the juice for more tartness.

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The Story Behind This Sparkling Elderflower Cocktail
Elderflower cocktails have become the darling of brunches, weddings, and trendy happy hours—and for good reason. They’re delicate yet memorable, floral without being perfume-y, and endlessly versatile. While the traditional spritz usually leans on sparkling wine and Aperol, this Southern twist uses elderflower liqueur and a splash of ginger beer for a spicier, more playful edge. Once I discovered elderflower liqueur, I was hooked. Now, it’s a staple in my cocktail rotation—especially in summer, when I crave something chilled, fizzy, and full of fruity flavor.

Essential Tools for Mixing the Perfect Spritz

• Large pitcher: To mix up enough for a crowd.
• Long-handled spoon: For a gentle stir that keeps the bubbles.
• Collins or stemless wine glasses: Anything that shows off the sparkle.
• Citrus peeler or paring knife: For those bright lime garnishes.
• Cocktail shaker (optional): Not required, but helpful if you prefer your base ingredients ice-cold before adding the fizz.

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What You’ll Need to Make This Sparkling Elderflower Cocktail

• Vodka – Use a clean, crisp base or go bold with citrus-infused.
• Elderflower liqueur – A floral must-have; Violet Crown or St-Germain are ideal.
• Cranberry juice – Adds a pop of color and tangy depth.
• Ginger beer – Gives your elderflower fizz that signature sparkle and bite.
• Ice – Keeps everything crisp and cool.
• Lime twists – A fresh twist of citrus for garnish and aroma.

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How to Make a Sparkling Elderflower Vodka Spritz at Home

Garnish each with a lime twist. A little citrus oil from the peel brings everything to life—and looks stunning. For extra flair, float a sprig of fresh elderflowers on top.

Fill a large pitcher halfway with ice. This helps chill the base without watering it down too quickly.

Add vodka, elderflower liqueur, and cranberry juice. Think of it like building layers of a fruity elderflower cocktail—each sip should be balanced and refreshing.

Top with ginger beer and stir gently. A slow stir from the bottom of the pitcher (or bottom of a cocktail shaker if you’re going that route) keeps the fizz intact.

Fill glasses with fresh ice and pour. The fizz will rise beautifully, especially in a tall Collins or wine glass.

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Pro Tips for a Fizzy, Flavor-Packed Elderflower Cocktail

• Use chilled ingredients. This keeps your sparkling cocktail crisp without needing too much ice.
• Avoid stirring too vigorously. You want to preserve that natural carbonation.
• Add a splash of sparkling wine. It turns this into a next-level elderflower fizz and makes it even more celebratory.
• Customize the juice. If cranberry isn’t your favorite, pomegranate or blood orange adds bold color and fruity flavor.
• Try elderflower syrup in place of liqueur. Especially if you’re making a mocktail version or want to reduce alcohol.

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Perfect Pairings for Your Elderflower Vodka Spritz

• White Chicken Enchiladas with Creamy Salsa Verde
  The tangy verde sauce and melty cheese in these enchiladas pair beautifully with the floral brightness of this spritz.
• Crawfish Handpies
  These buttery, flaky little pockets of Cajun comfort are bold and savory—the perfect contrast to a fizzy, fruity cocktail.
• Honey Mustard Roasted Salmon
  Sweet, tangy, and oven-crisped, this salmon dish is elegant without being fussy—just like this elderflower cocktail.
• Easy Baja Style Fish Tacos
  Light, crispy fish tucked into warm tortillas with creamy slaw—this drink cuts right through the richness with a sparkling lift.
• King Ranch Chicken
  A Texan classic full of bold flavors and cheesy goodness that begs for something cool and refreshing on the side—this spritz does the job.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Elderflower Spritz Cocktails

What makes this elderflower cocktail so refreshing?
The balance of floral elderflower liqueur, tart cranberry juice, and fizzy ginger beer gives this drink its signature refreshing quality. Add a shot of vodka and you’ve got the ultimate elderflower fizz that’s light, bright, and incredibly satisfying.

Can I use sparkling wine instead of ginger beer?
Absolutely! Swapping in sparkling wine creates a lighter, more refined twist on the traditional elderflower spritz. Just be sure to go easy on the juice so you don’t overwhelm the bubbles.

Do I need a cocktail shaker for this recipe?
No shaker required! But if you want your base mixture extra cold, you can stir it briefly in the bottom of a cocktail shaker (without the ginger beer), then pour it into your pitcher before adding bubbles.

Where can I find elderflower liqueur or syrup?
Most well-stocked liquor stores carry elderflower liqueur like St-Germain. For a non-alcoholic option, elderflower syrup is often found in specialty shops or online.

Can I use fresh elderflowers in this drink?
Yes! While not essential, a sprig of fresh elderflowers adds stunning visual appeal and a subtle natural aroma. Float one on top just before serving for that wow factor.

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Make-Ahead Tips and How to Keep Your Spritz Fresh

• Make-ahead base: Combine vodka, elderflower liqueur, and cranberry juice and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead.
• Add fizz last: Always add ginger beer or sparkling wine just before serving.
• No reheating needed: This is a cold cocktail and best enjoyed fresh.
• No freezing: Freezing will dull the flavor and destroy the carbonation.
• Fresh garnish: Prep your lime twists ahead, but add them last for best effect.

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Pull Up a Chair and Pour Another Glass
If this Sparkling Elderflower Vodka Spritz gave your happy hour a little lift—or made you dream of summer parties on the porch—go ahead and bookmark it. Better yet, pull up a chair and subscribe to my newsletter. I’ve got more delicious cocktails, good stories, and easy Southern recipes coming your way, and I’d love to share them with you. Or tell me what you’d pair it with—I love hearing how y’all make these recipes your own.

More Cool Drinks for Hot Days and Good Company

When the sun’s blazing and the patio’s full of laughter, nothing beats a cold drink in your hand and good folks all around. Whether you’re cooling off after a backyard BBQ or just watching the sprinklers with your feet in the pool, these refreshing cocktails bring the chill and the charm. Each one is bold, flavorful, and built for sharing—because around here, we don’t just sip, we savor.