I'm fond of St. Germaine elderflower liqueur, and enjoy it with Hendricks gin in place of vermouth, with a twist. We planted an elder when we moved to Maine. It has grown larger every year and produces abundantly, but the flowers don't have the haunting aroma that I associate with St. Germaine or the Scandinavian elderflower syrups I have tasted. I allow the flower umbrels to mature into berries, and have had great success making jam, cordial, and syrup; I add a good dose of St. Germaine to all of them to provide the full elder experience. Elderberry is held in great esteem here as an immune system booster, and I have been taking an almost daily dose since the covid pandemic began. I don't know if this folk medicine lore is genuine or not, and I am not depending on it, I'm wearing a mask indoors, and have gotten all vaccine doses and boosters, too. But so far, knock wood, the elderberry is working! Plus, I find it delicious.
What a complete delight to read of Kentmere, Clara Black and see those beautiful photos. Lake District lovers will - I am sure- enjoy this evocative description. Thanks you.
I'm fond of St. Germaine elderflower liqueur, and enjoy it with Hendricks gin in place of vermouth, with a twist. We planted an elder when we moved to Maine. It has grown larger every year and produces abundantly, but the flowers don't have the haunting aroma that I associate with St. Germaine or the Scandinavian elderflower syrups I have tasted. I allow the flower umbrels to mature into berries, and have had great success making jam, cordial, and syrup; I add a good dose of St. Germaine to all of them to provide the full elder experience. Elderberry is held in great esteem here as an immune system booster, and I have been taking an almost daily dose since the covid pandemic began. I don't know if this folk medicine lore is genuine or not, and I am not depending on it, I'm wearing a mask indoors, and have gotten all vaccine doses and boosters, too. But so far, knock wood, the elderberry is working! Plus, I find it delicious.
What a complete delight to read of Kentmere, Clara Black and see those beautiful photos. Lake District lovers will - I am sure- enjoy this evocative description. Thanks you.