How to make elderflower sparkling wine

Elderflower sparkling wine is a delicious and refreshing beverage that is perfect for summer gatherings or special occasions. Made with fresh elderflowers, this wine has a light and floral flavor with a hint of sweetness and a slight effervescence. While making wine may seem daunting, this recipe is simple and easy to follow. Here’s how to make your own elderflower sparkling wine:

Ingredients:

• 10-12 fresh elderflower heads
• 1.5kg of sugar
• 5L of water
• 1 lemon
• 1 packet of Champagne yeast
• 1 large glass demijohn
• 6-8 Champagne bottles with corks or swing-top lids

Instructions:

1. Gather the elderflowers: Elderflowers bloom in the late spring and early summer, typically from May to June. Look for elderflower bushes in your local area or consider growing them in your backyard. Gather 10-12 fresh elderflower heads and make sure they are free of insects and debris.
2. Prepare the sugar syrup: In a large saucepan, dissolve 1.5kg of sugar in 5L of water over medium heat. Once the sugar is fully dissolved, remove the pan from heat and allow the syrup to cool.
3. Add the elderflowers and lemon: Gently rinse the elderflower heads in cool water and then add them to the sugar syrup. Slice a lemon and add it to the mixture as well. Stir everything together and let it steep for 24-48 hours.
4. Add the yeast: After the mixture has steeped, strain out the elderflowers and lemon and pour the liquid into a large glass demijohn. Add a packet of Champagne yeast to the demijohn and gently stir to combine.
5. Ferment the wine: Place an airlock onto the top of the demijohn and store it in a cool, dark place for 1-2 weeks. During this time, the yeast will convert the sugar into alcohol, creating a still wine.
6. Bottle the wine: Once the fermentation process is complete, use a siphon to transfer the wine from the demijohn into Champagne bottles. Leave a few inches of headspace at the top of each bottle.
7. Carbonate the wine: To create the effervescence in the wine, you will need to add a small amount of sugar to each bottle. Dissolve 1-2 tablespoons of sugar in a small amount of warm water and add it to each bottle. Seal the bottles with corks or swing-top lids and store them in a cool, dark place for 1-2 weeks.
8. Enjoy your elderflower sparkling wine: After 1-2 weeks, your elderflower sparkling wine will be ready to drink. Chill the bottles in the refrigerator and serve cold. This wine pairs well with light and fresh summer dishes, such as salads, grilled fish, or fruit desserts.

Making your own elderflower sparkling wine is a fun and rewarding process that requires minimal equipment and ingredients. With a little bit of patience and some elderflowers, you can create a delicious and unique beverage that is sure to impress your guests. Cheers!