Paul Kushner
The Cherry Elderflower Smash is a fruity, floral cocktail that’s bright, smooth, and easy to enjoy. Fresh cherries bring a juicy sweetness, while elderflower liqueur adds a light, fragrant layer that pairs well with citrus and your choice of spirit vodka, gin, or bourbon all work. Muddled with lemon and maybe a few mint leaves, this drink feels refreshing without being too sugary. It’s a solid choice for warm evenings or when you want something that feels fresh but still packs flavor. The balance of cherry and elderflower makes it mellow, slightly floral, and just a little unexpected.
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Tasting Notes
The Cherry Elderflower Smash is a bright, herbaceous cocktail that’s fruity, floral, and refreshing. Juicy cherries provide rich sweetness and vibrant color, while elderflower liqueur adds a delicate floral lift. Gin brings botanical complexity, and fresh mint enhances the drink’s cooling character. Topped with lemon-lime soda, it’s bubbly and crisp with a soft herbal finish—perfectly balanced between garden-fresh and playful.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a cocktail shaker for mixing, a muddler to break down the cherries and mint, and a fine strainer for a smooth pour. Serve in a rocks or Collins glass to showcase the drink’s beautiful color and garnishes.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Elderflower Liqueur
- 1 oz Gin
- Handful of cherries, pitted
- Handful of mint leaves
- Lemon-lime soda (to top)
- Cherry and mint sprig (for garnish)
Instructions
- Muddle: In a shaker, combine cherries and mint leaves. Muddle until the cherries are broken down and the mint is fragrant.
- Add Spirits: Pour in elderflower liqueur and gin. Add ice.
- Shake: Shake well to chill and combine the ingredients.
- Strain: Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top and Garnish: Top with lemon-lime soda and garnish with a cherry and mint sprig.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh, ripe cherries for the best color and flavor—or sub with cherry preserves in a pinch.
- Gently slap the mint leaves before muddling to release more oils.
- For a sweeter finish, add a dash of simple syrup.
- Swap lemon-lime soda for sparkling water and a splash of lemon juice for a lighter version.
When to Serve
The Cherry Elderflower Smash cocktail is an ideal choice for warm summer afternoons, bringing a splash of color and freshness to any gathering. It fits beautifully into garden parties and bridal showers, where its floral and fruity notes complement light fare and festive settings. As a signature cocktail for springtime brunches, it stands out with its vibrant hue and inviting aroma.
Fans of mojitos and juleps will especially appreciate this twist, as it delivers the same refreshing minty character with a unique blend of cherry sweetness and elderflower elegance. Whether served in the sun or under a canopy of blooms, it’s sure to impress.
Which Liquor Brands to Use
- Elderflower liqueur: St. Elder Natural, St-Germain
- Gin: Hendrick’s for floral notes, or Bombay Sapphire for classic botanicals
- Lemon-lime soda: Sprite, 7UP, or Fever-Tree Lemon Soda
- Cherries: Use Bing or Rainier when in season
Similar Cocktails
- Cherry Lime Gin Fizz
- Blueberry Gin Smash
- Strawberry Hugo Spritz
- Blue Hawaiian Long Island
- Cherry Long Island Iced Tea
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Elderflower Liqueur
- 1 oz Gin
- Handful of cherries pitted
- Handful of mint leaves
- Lemon-lime soda to top
- Cherry and mint sprig for garnish
Instructions
- Muddle: In a shaker, combine cherries and mint leaves. Muddle until the cherries are broken down and the mint is fragrant.
- Add Spirits: Pour in elderflower liqueur and gin. Add ice.
- Shake: Shake well to chill and combine the ingredients.
- Strain: Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top and Garnish: Top with lemon-lime soda and garnish with a cherry and mint sprig.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use fresh, ripe cherries for the best color and flavor—or sub with cherry preserves in a pinch.
- Gently slap the mint leaves before muddling to release more oils.
- For a sweeter finish, add a dash of simple syrup.
- Swap lemon-lime soda for sparkling water and a splash of lemon juice for a lighter version.
