Elderberry spirits

[bushcraftbob]

Has anyone used elderberrys in gin/vodka/whisky etc? There is a bush near made laden with the berries but dont have the equipment to make wine, but wondered if they could be used similar to blackberries???

cheeyarz

 

[johnnytheboy]

I would be interested in this as well, I have found piles of elderberries on a part of the foreshore i shoot for geese!!!

 

[British Red]

Elderberry tincture is a superb medicinal infusion. It has documented anti viral properties. Hardly a cure for the common cold, but certainly helps the fight (or so I am informed). I have a demijohn full on the go this year and am happy to report how it turn out. Now whether it will be palatable remains to be seen!

 

[bushcraftbob]

How do you make your tincture British Red??

 

[British Red]

Just equal volumes of berries and spirit. Infuse for 3 months and then sweeten to taste

 

[bushcraftbob]

I am going to have a bash at this aswell then, question is what spirit to use?? I am very pleased with how my blackberry whisky is maturing so might also try this with elderberrys..

 

[British Red]

Traditionally high alcohol vodka is used for tinctures - 40%ABV or more. But it should work in any spirit

 

[Teepee]

My dad made some Elderberry wine in 1980.
I drank it in 2009, it wasn't too bad.

 

[rommy]

I've just made elderberry jam and have to say I was disappointed. It is a very bland to delicate flavour, so I would think BRs infusion for the medicinal properties might be a better approach rather then any improvement in taste?? I have read somewhere that elderberry is considered an emetic? If so it might be wise to keep consumption within limits.

 

[badgeringtim]

next time you se a church fate or jumble sale pop in - there is always a few demijohns and an airlock for about 20p. Get some steriliser and away you go - i promis its worth it!