Strawberry Elderflower Gin Fizz

1.Prepare the strawberry juice by blending fresh, hulled strawberries until smooth, then strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove seeds and pulp.

2.Chill a highball glass or a large coupe glass thoroughly.

3.In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, fresh lime juice, elderflower syrup, and fresh strawberry juice.

4.Fill the shaker three-quarters full with ice.

5.Seal the shaker tightly and shake vigorously until the shaker is well-chilled (about 15-20 seconds).

6.Fill your chilled serving glass with fresh ice cubes.

7.Double strain the cocktail mixture from the shaker into the prepared glass.

8.Top the drink slowly with chilled soda water or sparkling wine (about 60-90 ml, depending on glass size) to create the fizz.

9.Gently stir once or twice to incorporate the soda water without losing too much carbonation.

10.Garnish by sliding a few thin strawberry slices down the inside of the glass or placing a lime wheel on the rim, optionally adding an edible flower for visual appeal.