Heather and elderflower
Two pale northern European flowers with delicate aroma, both easy to over-steep into something that tastes of very little.
botanical
What is being compared
Point by point
| Aspect | Heather | Elderflower |
|---|---|---|
| Aroma | Honeyed and slightly waxy, with a dry heath note. Quiet, and closely associated with the honey made from it. | Muscat grape and lychee, much more forward and instantly recognisable from cordial. |
| In the cup | Subtle to the point of vanishing if under-dosed. Needs a generous quantity and rewards it. | Assertive for a flower, and holds up in blends where heather does not. |
| Tradition | Ale and mead brewing more than infusion, particularly in Scotland and Scandinavia. | Cordials and pressés across northern and central Europe, with infusion secondary. |
| Colour | Pale gold, barely tinted. | Pale gold to light green, slightly deeper. |
The short answer
Elderflower if you want the aroma to carry; heather if you want something quieter with a honey character, and are willing to use enough of it.
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