New to elderberries
A gentle introduction to your elderberry journey
What elderberries are and why people use them
Elderberry plants are hardy shrubs that grow well in a range of conditions, from wetter areas to drier soils, provided they have good sunlight.
In early summer, elderberries produce large, delicate clusters of creamy white flowers above the foliage. These flowers are commonly used for cordials, syrups, and infused products.
Later in the season, the flowers give way to small, dark purple-black berries that hang in heavy clusters. These berries are typically harvested in late summer and are used in cooking, syrups, and other food products once properly processed.
Tastes and Uses
What do elderberries taste like?
Elderberries have a deep, rich flavour that is often described as fruity and slightly sweet-tart, with earthy undertones. When cooked or prepared properly, the flavour becomes rounded and complex which is suited to wines, syrups, sauces, drinks, and preserves.
Elderflowers, by contrast, are light and aromatic, with a delicate floral flavour with notes of pear and lychee with hints of honey and citrus with a grassy undertone that works beautifully in champagne, cordials, infusions, and gentle everyday products.
Because of this contrast, different elderberry products suit different tastes and uses, and many people enjoy exploring them gradually.
How are elderberries traditionally used?
Elderberries and elderflowers have a long history of traditional use in food and seasonal preparations.
- Elderberries have traditionally been used during the colder months and are commonly associated with wintertime wellbeing, including support during cold and flu season.
- Elderflowers have traditionally been used in springtime preparations and are often associated with seasonal changes, the chest, and skin.
Today, elderberries and elderflowers continue to be enjoyed in a variety of ways, including:
- Syrups and cordials
- Cooking ingredients for sweet or savoury dishes
- Drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic
- Simple, everyday products designed for regular use
At Elderglen, we focus on making elderberries easy to use whether you’re incorporating them into your kitchen or enjoying them in more traditional formats.
A Note on Safety
Raw elderberries are not typically consumed on their own. Like many traditional ingredients, they are intended to be cooked or properly prepared before use.
All Elderglen products are made using established preparation methods and are safe to enjoy as intended. Clear usage guidance is provided with each product to help you feel confident and informed.
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, immunocompromised, or managing a medical condition, we recommend seeking advice from a qualified health professional before introducing new foods or herbal products.
If you are new to elderberries, starting with a finished product — such as a syrup, cordial, or food item — is the easiest and safest way to begin.
What elderberries are and why people use them
If you’re new to elderberries, the best place to start is with a product that fits easily into your everyday routine.
Many people begin with a finished product — something ready to use, familiar and simple to enjoy. From there, it’s easy to explore different flavours and uses over time.
You might choose:
- A syrup or oxymel for seasonal use or to add to warm or cold drinks
- A food product to use in cooking, baking, or everyday meals
Each Elderglen product includes clear guidance on how to use it, so you can feel confident from the first taste.
There’s no single right place to start, it’s more about what feels right for you. If you are ready to explore..
