Spring has sprung, and there's no better way to celebrate the beginning of the season than with St-Germain. Made from handpicked elderflowers native to France, it makes an elegant addition whether you’re planning a romantic picnic for two or partying outdoors with friends. Its subtle flavor allows it to pair easily with complementary spirits. A classic celebratory pairing combines St-Germain with Champagne, but bartenders in Austin are using it with more than just bubbly. Vodka, gin, rye, rum, tequila and bourbon all play well with St-Germain. See Eater’s map of where to find St-Germain in and out of the bottle. À votre santé!
Over on “dirty 6th” Chupacabra bartender Mike Martin keeps it light and refreshing with his St-Germain Margarita. “The best way I could describe it is it tastes like an edible flower” he said when asked about St-Germain. “Anything that is abrasive that people don’t like the taste of, St-Germain helps mellow it out and puts a floral burst on top of it.” Mike has been somewhat of a elderflower evangelist at Chupacabra, coming up with drinks to highlight the spirit’s versatility and “opening up St-Germain to other people.” He said it complements and expands the flavors of everything from tequila to vodka, but where it really shines is gin. “Most people associate gin with pine trees. St-Germain brings out the botanicals and opens the other flavors.” Stop in to Chupacabra for a St-Germain Margarita, a laid-back Austin original with a Paris twist. 
1.25 oz. Silver Tequila
1.25 oz. St-Germain
A splash of pineapple juice
Half of a lime
Half of a lemon
Fill glass with sparkling water and mix in ingredients. Serve in a pint glass.
