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Vodka and Elderflower Sparkling Lemonade

Serves 1

1 unwaxed lemon
4 to 6 ice cubes
2 oz. vodka
1 1/2 oz. St. Germain elderflower liqueur
club soda or sparkling wine
parsley or basil sprig for garnish

Cut two thin slices off the lemon. In a tall, thin glass, layer 2-3 ice cubes, then 1 lemon slice, then another 2-3 ice cubes, then final lemon slice. Pour vodka and elderflower liqueur into glass. Top with club soda or sparkling wine. Stir well, and garnish with parsley sprig.

Elderflower Bubbly

7 sprays elderflowers
4 litres water
500g sugar
2 lemons
2 tbsp white wine vinegar

Boil a small amount of water and dissolve the sugar in it. Add remaining water. When liquid is cold, throw in the flowerheads, sliced lemons and vinegar. Stir well. Cover and leave to stand for at least 24 hours. Strain into narrow-necked bottles. Seal. Store in a cool place for a week or so and then enjoy. Beware. Like ginger beer, this beverage can blow its top if left too long.

Elderflower Wine

Dissolve 3 1/2 cups of sugar in a little warm water. Leave to cool. Squeeze the juice from 1 lemon and add to liquid, then cut the rind into 4 pieces, discarding the pith. Make up the water to 4.8 litres and add to the sugar mixture. Add 4 large elderflower heads, picked in full sunshine. (The nectar will contain yeast to promote the bubbles). Add the lemon rind and 2 tbsp of white vinegar.

Stir, cover and leave for 4-5 days in a non-metallic container. Strain and bottle. Leave for 1-2 weeks, when it should be effervescent. Serve chilled in champagne glasses with a heartsease (wild pansy).