The 95-Cent Trader Joe’s Soda We Keep Around for Fancy Cocktails

In the winter, we’re more likely to indulge in the meticulous art of cocktail making, carefully stirring or shaking up drinks, like our favorite, the Penicillin. However, as summer’s long, lazy days take hold, a different desire emerges—one for quick, refreshing beverages with a bit of buzz. Our current obsession is ridiculously easy summer cocktails.

Our favorite 2-ingredient cocktail embodies everything we look for in a summer drink. It is bright, bubbly, and delightfully uncomplicated. With one visit to Trader Joe’s, you’ll have everything you need! Simply pick up your preferred gin and a pack of TJ’s Lemon Elderflower Soda ($3.79 for a pack of four cans—that’s about 95 cents per can).

What Is Lemon Elderflower Soda?

TJ’s Lemon Elderflower soda is a lovely balance of sweet and sparkly thanks to a combination of cold-pressed lemon juice, cane sugar, and elderflower extract. Fresh elderflowers, which come from the same plant as elderberries, are the star ingredient in the popular St-Germain elderflower liqueur. Essentially, this soda was destined to be a mixer. 

The elderflower extract is fresh and floral, which compliments the zesty lemon notes in the soda. It tastes sophisticated, particularly when paired with the second ingredient: gin. The botanical notes from the gin add a crisp herbaceousness that’s perfect for warm-weather sipping. 

How To Make a 2-Ingredient Elderflower Gin Cocktail

To make one cocktail you’ll need:

• 1 1/2 ounce gin
• 1 (8-ounce) can TJ’s Lemon Elderflower Soda
• Lemon slices for garnish (optional)

Fill a cocktail glass most of the way with ice. If you are using lemon slices, place one inside the glass. 

Add the gin, followed by the Lemon Elderflower Soda. For a stronger cocktail, use only half of the soda can.