There is a lot I miss about Austria, a country I lived in while in college and have visited half a dozen times since.  The architecture, the coffee shops that also serve alcohol and who expect you stay at least a few hours nursing one drink, the art, the outdoor markets, the beer…like I said, there is LOT  I miss.  So, imagine how excited I was to see elderflower cordial at Myers of Keswick – my favorite British specialty grocery store.  Elderflower cordial has a distinct, delicious flavor that is often served in Austrian cafes mixed with various different liquids: sparkling water, lemonade, or champagne.  The cordial itself is non-alcoholic so it is really nice to make something that feels fancy when you are abstaining ( I drank a LOT of elderflower sparkling water concoctions while pregnant), but now that I can imbibe, I use it to elevate my favorite mixed drink: Gin and Soda.

Your favorite Whiskey Glass

Ice Cubes

Your favorite Gin (or Vodka)

Sparkling Water

Elderflower Cordial

Slice of Lemon

Place 3 or 4 ice cubes in a glass.  Pour in a shot of gin or vodka.  Add a tbs. of elderflower cordial.  Top with sparkling water.  Squeeze in juice from a slice of lemon.  Stir.  Drink.