This crisp, garden-fresh cocktail is a favorite when I’m craving something light, floral, and just a little fancy. The White Linen is the kind of drink that feels like sunshine in a glass-cool cucumber, bright lemon, and a hint of elderflower make it super refreshing, especially on warm days. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to impress. It’s simple, elegant, and easy to tweak to your own taste.
White Linen
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glass: Highball or Collins
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) gin
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) elderflower liqueur (like St-Germain)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (*see tip below*)
– Soda water, to top
– 2-3 fresh cucumber slices, plus more for garnish
– Ice
Substitutions:
– Swap gin for vodka if you prefer a milder flavor
– Use elderflower syrup instead of liqueur for a non-alcoholic version
– Honey syrup (honey + warm water) works in place of simple syrup
Method
- Chill your glass. Pop your highball or Collins glass in the freezer for a few minutes. A cold glass keeps everything crisp and refreshing.
- Prepare your ingredients. Slice a few thin rounds of cucumber and squeeze your lemon juice fresh-it makes a big difference.
- Build the drink. Fill your chilled glass with ice. Pour in the gin, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Stir gently. Give everything a quick stir to combine. You’re not shaking here-just mixing enough to bring the flavors together.
- Top with soda water. Fill the rest of the glass with soda water. It should fizz gently but not overwhelm the drink.
- Garnish and serve. Add a few cucumber slices to the glass. I sometimes give them a gentle press with a spoon to release more aroma.
Tips & Tricks
– Simple syrup tip: Mix equal parts sugar and hot water, stir until dissolved, and cool. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
– Don’t skip the fresh lemon juice. Bottled won’t give you the same brightness.
– Try different gins. Floral gins bring out the elderflower, while citrus-forward ones highlight the lemon.
– Make it ahead: Mix everything except soda water and cucumber. Store in the fridge. When ready to serve, pour over ice, add soda, and garnish.
Storage
This cocktail is best made fresh, but you can premix the gin, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and syrup up to 24 hours ahead. Keep it chilled and add soda water and garnish just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
The White Linen shines as a pre-dinner drink or as a refreshing option at brunch or summer parties. I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-cocktails to serve alongside a simple fruit tart or lemon sorbet-it’s the perfect combo.
Food Pairings
– Light Salads: Think arugula, goat cheese, and citrus vinaigrette. The cocktail’s crispness highlights fresh greens beautifully.
– Seafood: Grilled shrimp or ceviche pairs well, especially with a lemony finish.
– Fruit-Based Desserts: Try it with a peach galette or berry compote to echo the drink’s subtle sweetness.
Recipe Variations
Pink Linen
– Add a splash (1 oz/30 ml) of cranberry juice for a tart, rosy version.
– Follow the main recipe, adding cranberry before topping with soda.
Green Linen
– Swap lemon juice for lime, and muddle 3-4 mint leaves with the cucumber for a bright, herbal twist.
Spicy Linen
– Add a thin slice of jalapeño to the glass before stirring for a gentle heat that plays well with the cooling cucumber.
Virgin White Linen
– Skip the gin and elderflower liqueur. Use 1 oz (30 ml) elderflower syrup or apple juice, and top with soda water. Still refreshing, still delicious.
FAQs
Is this cocktail healthy?
It’s lighter than many cocktails, thanks to the fresh ingredients and soda water. You can reduce the sugar by cutting back on simple syrup or using a natural sweetener.
How do I boost the flavor?
Use very fresh cucumber and lemon. You can also add a sprig of mint or basil for an aromatic twist.
What’s the best time to serve a White Linen?
While it’s perfect for spring and summer, I find it refreshing all year-especially when you need a break from heavier drinks.
Can I make a pitcher for parties?
Yes! Scale up the recipe (multiply by the number of servings) and mix everything but the soda water and garnish. Store in the fridge and top with soda just before serving.
What’s unique about the White Linen?
It’s the mix of floral elderflower, crisp cucumber, and citrus that makes it stand out from other gin drinks. It’s light but layered.
Is there a non-alcoholic swap for elderflower liqueur?
Yes-use elderflower cordial or syrup. It gives the same floral note without the alcohol.
This cocktail has been my go-to for summer nights on the patio. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, the White Linen is easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always refreshing. Try a few variations and see which one becomes your favorite.
