Elderberry Cordial

Caledonia Spirits Elderberry Honey cordial combines the rich depth of elderberry with the sweet goodness of apple and raw honey, creating a joyous experience for the palette and spirit. Lower in alcohol than our other offerings, our Elderberry Cordial is a lovely digestif, and also provides something special to cocktails. In partnership with local farmers, it also embodies a deep connection with the land and people who steward it. Enjoy!

History and Uses

The word Cordial is believed to come from the Latin “Cordalis”, meaning “of the heart”. Cordials are believed to be of European origin and the historical descendants of herbal medicines. Thought to have effects especially for the digestive and circulatory systems, cordials are often referred to as liqueurs and are made by infusing distilled alcohol with fruit, flowers, leaves, nuts, spices, herbs, or cream and a sweetener.

The tradition of drinking cordials at the beginning or end of the meal stands to this day. In Europe, cordials are served as a digestive and to bring warm feelings to the gathering. Served in a small, short cordial glass that typically holds about an ounce and a half to two and a half ounces of liquid, cordials are wonderful served by themselves, poured over ice, or mixed with coffee, cream, or other mixers to create cocktails.