Alcohol-Free Fermented Elderflower Champagne
This alcohol-free elderflower champagne uses the natural yeasts on elderflowers and in the air for gentle fermentation, resulting in a slightly fizzy, floral beverage. We were so amazed by the complexity of flavour that developed in such a short fermentation time!
Takes 6 days 30 minutes
Serves 8
Ingredients
Elderflowers:
- 10-12 elderflower heads
Water:
- 4 litres 16 cups
Sugar:
- 500 g 17.6 oz
Citrus:
- 2 large limes organic, if possible
White Wine Vinegar:
- 2 tbsp
Instructions
Prepare the Elderflower Infusion:
- Pick and Clean Elderflowers: Pick 10-12 elderflower heads, ensuring they are fully open and fragrant. Shake gently to remove any insects but do not rinse as the natural yeasts on the flowers are essential for fermentation.
- Boil the Water: Boil 2 litres (8 cups) of water and pour it into a large, heatproof bowl or container.
- Add Sugar: Add 500g (17.6 oz) of sugar to the hot water and stir until completely dissolved.
- Cool the Water: Add the remaining 2 litres (8 cups) of cold water to the bowl to cool the mixture down to lukewarm temperature.
- Prepare the Limes: Thinly slice 2 large limes, removing any seeds.
- Add Ingredients: Add the elderflower heads, lime slices, and 2 tbsp of white wine vinegar to the sugar water mixture.
Start Fermentation:
- Cover and Ferment: Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let it sit at room temperature for 2-3 days. Stir the mixture once a day. You should start to see some bubbles forming, indicating that fermentation has begun.
Bottle and Continue Fermentation:
- Strain and Bottle: After 2-3 days, strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into clean, sterilised bottles. Seal the bottles tightly.
- Ferment Further: Leave the bottled elderflower champagne at room temperature for another 3-4 days to build up carbonation.
Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate: After the second fermentation period, refrigerate the bottles for at least 24 hours before serving.
- Serve: Carefully open the bottles to release the built-up carbonation, pour into glasses, and enjoy your naturally fizzy, alcohol-free elderflower champagne!
Notes
Notes
- Natural Yeasts: Do not wash the elderflowers, as the natural yeasts on them are crucial for fermentation.
- Fermentation Time: The fermentation time may vary depending on the temperature and yeast activity. Monitor the bottles carefully to avoid over-carbonation.
- Safety: Use sturdy bottles designed for carbonation to prevent any risk of explosion.