Elderflowers
Elderberries are the blossoms of the Black Elder (Sambucus nigra) which like elderberries are used around the world in herbal treatments and in drinks – Elderflower “Champagne “is an esteemed country wine. The Italian liqueur Sambuca is flavoured with oil derived from elderflowers. Elderflowers have traditionally been used to treat influenza, colds and feverish illnesses, as well as hay fever
For tasting, 2.8 grams of elderflowers were steeped in 140ml water at 100⁰C in a half size tasting mug for five minutes.
Dry appearance: mixed flowers and petioles; yellow to brown; no dust present. Dry aroma: a hint medicinal but not unpleasant
Infusion – aroma: a sweet aroma with hints of woodland
Liquor – visual: greenish amber liquor, slightly dull.
Liquor – taste: surprisingly sweet to taste, not at all the floral taste of fresh elderflowers, but warmly comforting.Summary: altogether a more complete tisane than you might expect – potentially a great combination of tasting good whilst doing good.
Brewing Advice: One heaped teaspoon per mug. Add fresh boiling water (100 deg C). Steep for ten minutes.
