The Independent: Elderflower is over: here are the best of the grown-up alternatives

Is it just me or does elderflower cordial need to be banished to the back of the cupboard, never to be seen again?

For too long, this early summer floral bloom has blandly dominated non-alcoholic party pours the length and breadth of the country. And while I’m partial to a Shloer (so many happy memories at my wonderful nan’s house), it’s not my immediate choice if I’m not feeling like a glass of wine.

But there’s something invigorating happening in the world of “no and lo” drinks, and as someone who not only loves wine (and whisky and gin too), I’m feeling excited. All the data indicates that this booming category is hitting its stride.

---

Believe by Jukes

Jukes Cordialities, £42, 4x750ml, 0% ABV

I suggest you always have a bottle of this knocking about in your fridge. It’s a glassful of racy lemon, and something akin to walking along a windswept coastline with great saline freshness. Its sparkling lift is invigorating, and a world away from insipid sugary drinks – it feels seriously grown up and a great, affordable alternative to cava or cremant.