Elderflower Champagne

Elder trees may not be high on the list of our planting species, but there’s plenty out there in The National Forest, and the wider countryside.

Elders are small trees, rarely exceeding 9m in height, laden with clusters of flowerheads in June. The flat-topped heads are made up of millions of tiny creamy-white flowers, from which you can make the most delicious summer drink, elderflower champagne.

Recipe makes 1 gallon:

• 2 heads elderflower (wash thoroughly, and please pick from traffic free areas)
• 1 1/2 lb white sugar
• 2 tb white-wine vinegar
• 1 gallon water
• 1 lemon

Pick the elderflower heads when in full bloom and put into a bowl followed by the lemon juice, cut up rind (no white pith), sugar and vinegar.

Add the cold water and leave for 24 hours. Strain into strong bottles, cork firmly and lay them on their sides. After two weeks it should be ready to drink.

Then you can toast the 10th anniversary of the National Forest Company along with us! Enjoy the summer!

There is a fascinating heritage of myths and legends associated with the elder tree (find out more at www.landshapes.org/learning/Elder.php).