Giffard Elderflower Syrup

The syrup supplies floral sweetness without the alcohol found in liqueurs such as St-Germain. A direct substitution changes a drink's sweetness, strength, and dilution, so the other ingredients may need adjustment.

It pairs well with sparkling water, lemon, cucumber, mint, apple, and tonic. It can also provide elderflower flavor in an alcohol-free variation on the Hugo spritz.

It is made by Giffard, a French producer founded in Angers in 1885. The company produces both alcoholic liqueurs and non-alcoholic syrups, so the bottle category matters.

A small measure is usually enough because the syrup contributes both concentrated floral flavor and sugar. Start with roughly 10 to 15 ml in a glass, add sparkling water or another mixer, and adjust to taste.