A Little Bit Fancy: Shandy's Elderflower Cordial & Elderflower Fizz
- Nov 13
- 2 min read
Every now and then, a product comes along that makes you stop and go, “Ooh, that’s a bit special.” Shandy’s Elderflower Cordial and Elderflower Fizz are exactly that - handmade in small batches using the kind of simple, handed-down methods that just work.
Sharon and Andy (the “Sh-Andy” behind the name) live on their family farm in Sheffield, out in the Selwyn District. A few years back, they decided to start sharing the family recipes and products they’d enjoyed for years - the ones that were just too good to keep to themselves.
They grow the elderflower trees on their property, which are harvested by hand and turned into these beautiful drinks with the kind of care you only get from small producers. No artificial preservatives, no weird additives, just real ingredients, handled simply and properly. It’s hands-on making at its best.
Elderflowers come from the elder tree, a plant that’s been around forever and pops up all over Europe, the UK, and here in New Zealand too. The flowers grow in big, lacy clusters of tiny white blossoms that look delicate but pack a surprising amount of flavour.
Elderflower blossoms are usually picked early in the morning when they’re at their best, before the sun starts to wilt them. Only the flowers are used - the stems can taste bitter - and timing matters too. The flowers need to be open and fragrant, but not starting to fade. The flavour is light, floral, fresh, and gently sweet, nothing too perfumed or overpowering. Often described as a mix of pear, lychee, and a hint of honey, it’s why elderflower works so well in drinks. It feels refreshing rather than sugary, and it doesn’t fight with other flavours.
Elderflower Cordial
This product is light, fragrant, and surprisingly versatile. Add a splash to still or sparkling water with plenty of ice, mix it into a summer mocktail, or drizzle a little over fresh fruit if you’re feeling fancy.
It’s one of those bottles that quietly disappear from the fridge because everyone keeps “just having a little bit.”
Elderflower Fizz
If you want something you can pour straight from the bottle, the Elderflower Fizz is perfect.
It’s non-alcoholic, gently sparkling, and feels like a real treat without being sweet or syrupy. Ideal for when you want something nicer than another can of fizzy, but don’t feel like a proper "drink" drink.
Made in truly small batches - about 7 litres at a time - it definitely earns its artisan title here at Eatlocal.
It’s always lovely to come across products made with this much care. From the hand-picked blossoms to the small-batch bottling, these elderflower drinks are a reminder of how good simple, well-made things can be.
Joanne Webb runs Eatlocal.nz, delivering premium, locally sourced fruit, veges, and artisan foods across the South Island. Passionate about supporting New Zealand growers, she personally packs every order to ensure quality and freshness. When she's not working on Eatlocal, you’ll find her walking her mini Schnauzer, Zac, or contemplating marathon training - again!
Comments