Elderflower Gin and Sloe Gin

Maybe a bit late for elderflowers so I have included Sloe Gin below

Add a touch of summer to a classic tipple with this delicious elderflower-infused gin. Great for a summer gathering, served with tonic water and lots of ice

PREP: 5 MINS plus 24 hours steeping. no cook EASY MAKES 500ML

6-8 freshly picked elderflower heads

1 strip lemon peel

1 tbsp golden caster sugar

500ml gin

Shake any obvious bugs off the elderflower heads then put them into a large jar or jug. Add the lemon peel, caster sugar and pour over the gin. Cover and leave to infuse for 24hrs.

Strain through coffee filter paper or 2 sheets of kitchen paper into a clean bottle. Keeps for up to 1 month. Serve with tonic water, lots of ice and a dash of sugar syrup if you like.

SLOE GIN

PREP: 20 MINS - 30 MINS plus 2-3 months maturing EASY MAKES ABOUT 1.5 LITRES

Make this sloe gin in advance and leave to mature for a richly rounded, fruity flavour - makes the perfect homemade gift

500g ripe sloes

250g golden caster sugar

1 litre bottle gin

Rinse and pick over the sloes, then pat dry in a clean tea towel. Using a stainless-steel fork or cocktail stick, prick the sloes and tip into a 2-litre Kilner jar, or divide between 2 smaller jars.

Add the sugar and gin, and seal the top. Shake well. Each day for a week, give the jar a good shake, then put it in a cool, dark place and leave for 2-3 months.

Line a plastic sieve with a square of muslin, set over a bowl, and strain the sloe gin through it. Decant into clean, dry bottles, seal and label. The sloe gin is now ready to drink but will improve and mature over time, so if possible make it one year to drink the next.

pictures of Sloe - might help