Lilac in drinks – how to get the flavour right
Lilac has an intense aroma but a delicate taste. The goal is a syrup that adds a floral lift without tasting perfumed. Only use lilac you can identify with certainty, and avoid flowers exposed to traffic, sprays, or garden chemicals. For the cleanest flavour, use petals only and skip green parts that can add bitterness.
Homemade lilac syrup (your spritz base)
This syrup is perfect for spritz, sparkling water, lemonade, and even a light twist in desserts.
You’ll need
Lilac petals (no green bits)
Sugar
Water
Lemon (zest or a little juice)
How to make it
Bring equal parts water and sugar to a gentle boil until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat.
Add lilac petals and a little lemon zest or juice.
Steep for 20–45 minutes, depending on how intense you want it.
Strain, cool completely, and bottle. Store in the fridge.
Flavour tip
Shorter steeping gives a fresher floral note. Longer steeping can turn slightly bitter. Start gently and adjust sweetness in the glass instead.
Recipe: Lilac Spritz (1 glass)
Flavour: floral, bright, bubbly
You’ll need
Plenty of ice
3–4 cl lilac syrup (adjust to strength)
10–12 cl prosecco or another dry sparkling wine
6–8 cl soda water
Lilac blossoms or a lemon twist to garnish
How to build it
Fill a large wine glass with ice.
Pour in the lilac syrup.
Top with prosecco, then soda water.
Stir once, gently.
Garnish and serve immediately.
Two easy variations
Lilac Gin Spritz (drier, more “cocktail” style)
Add 2 cl dry gin before the prosecco. Reduce the syrup slightly if you prefer it less sweet.
Alcohol-free Lilac Spritz (just as pretty)
3–4 cl lilac syrup
12 cl alcohol-free sparkling wine or extra-fizzy soda water
A small squeeze of lemon
Build over ice and garnish as usual.
Serving tips for a clean, modern look
Chill everything well so the bubbles stay crisp.
Use large ice cubes (or lots of ice) to keep it cold without diluting too fast.
Keep garnish minimal: a small lilac sprig or a lemon twist is enough.
Serve on a simple tray with matching glassware for a calm, cohesive feel.
Small bites that pair with lilac’s floral notes
Salted almonds or sea-salt crisps
Crostini with goat cheese, honey and lemon zest
Radishes with butter and flaky salt
Mild cheeses, green olives and light charcuterie
Quick prep guide
Make the syrup the day before and chill it.
Pre-measure syrup into a small carafe for easy serving.
Build spritz in the glass (not in a pitcher) to preserve carbonation.
