🏠 Home > 🗺️ Recipes > 🍷 Drinks > 🇦🇹 Austria Drinks > 🍷 Hollerblütensirup (Elderflower Syrup Drink) , Apfelsaft Gespritzt (Sparkling Apple Spritzer) , Almkräutertee (Alpine Herbal Tea)
🍷 Austria Drinks Recipes Loved Worldwide
Published by Supakorn | Updated: February 2026
🏔️ Introduction: The Refreshing Side of Austrian Culture
When you think of Austria, maybe the first thing that comes to mind is creamy coffee with a slice of apple strudel, or maybe even hearty mountain meals. But Austrian drink culture is so much more than that — and not everything comes in a mug of coffee or a glass of wine. In fact, Austria has an incredible variety of non-alcoholic drinks that reflect its mountain freshness, natural ingredients, and traditional hospitality.
Austrians take great pride in their beverages. Whether you’re in Vienna’s cozy cafés, Tyrol’s alpine lodges, or a farmer’s market in Styria, you’ll find homemade syrups, herbal teas, and refreshing juices made from local fruits.
In this article, we’ll dive into three of Austria’s most beloved non-alcoholic drinks — all easy to make at home and deeply rooted in Austrian life and tradition:
1.🍋 Recipe 1: Hollerblütep (Elderflower Syrup Drink)
2.🍎 Recipe 2: Apfelsaft Gespritzt (Sparkling Apple Spritzer)
3.🌿 Recipe 3: Almkräutertee (Alpine Herbal Tea)
Each drink tells a little story about Austria — from blooming elderflowers in the countryside to sparkling apple orchards and soothing mountain herbs.
🍋 Recipe 1: Hollerblütensirup (Elderflower Syrup Drink)
🌼 About This Recipe
The elderflower syrup drink is one of Austria’s most quintessential summer refreshments. Known locally as Hollerblütensirup, it’s a sweet, floral syrup made from the delicate blossoms of the elder tree (Sambucus nigra). Austrians mix it with sparkling water, and the result is something light, aromatic, and just perfect for a sunny afternoon.
It’s a drink you’ll find everywhere in Austria — from street markets to family homes. Many locals even make their own syrup each spring, following recipes that have been passed down for generations.
🧺 Ingredients & Measurements
Fresh elderflower blossoms – about 25–30 heads
- 1.5 liters of water
- 1 kg sugar
- 1 lemon (sliced)
- 25 g citric acid (or juice from 2 lemons)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1.Shake the flowers gently to remove insects but don’t rinse — you want to keep the natural pollen that gives the flavor.
2.Combine the flowers, lemon slices, and citric acid in a large glass jar.
3.Pour boiling water over the mixture.
4.Cover with a clean cloth and let it steep for 24–48 hours.
5.Strain the liquid and dissolve sugar into it over low heat until fully melted.
6.Pour into sterilized bottles and refrigerate.
To serve: mix 1 part syrup to 6 parts sparkling water, add ice and a slice of lemon — and you’ve got Austrian summer in a glass!
💡 Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid washing flowers — it reduces flavor.
- Don’t steep for too long (over 2 days), or it’ll taste bitter.
- Use sterilized bottles if you want it to last longer.
❓ FAQ
Q: Can I use dried elderflowers?
A: You can, but fresh ones have the best aroma.
Q: How long can I keep the syrup?
A: Around 3–4 months in the fridge if sealed well.
Q: Can I use honey instead of sugar?
A: Yes, though it’ll change the flavor slightly — more earthy and less floral.
🧾 Summary
This drink captures the Austrian countryside in bloom. It’s simple, elegant, and perfect for anyone who loves natural sweetness with a hint of floral charm.
🍎 Recipe 2: Apfelsaft Gespritzt (Sparkling Apple Spritzer)
🍏 About This Recipe
If there’s a drink that defines Austrian refreshment, it’s Apfelsaft Gespritzt — literally “spritzed apple juice.” This is Austria’s version of a sparkling fruit soda — made by mixing natural apple juice with sparkling mineral water.
It’s low-calorie, hydrating, and loved by everyone from hikers to office workers. You’ll see people sipping this in cafés, on picnic blankets, or after skiing in the Alps.
🍶 Ingredients & Measurements
- 1 cup cold apple juice (100% natural)
- 1 cup sparkling mineral water
- Ice cubes (optional)
- Lemon slice or mint leaf for garnish
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1.Fill your glass halfway with chilled apple juice.
2.Top with sparkling water.
3.Adjust ratio depending on your taste — Austrians love it 50:50.
4.Add ice and garnish. Done!
💡 Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
- Use cloudy (unfiltered) apple juice for authentic taste.
- Avoid sweetened apple juice — the best version tastes crisp, not sugary.
- Always chill both ingredients first — no one likes a flat spritzer!
❓ FAQ
Q: What makes this Austrian?
A: Austria has a huge apple-growing culture, especially in Styria, where orchards dominate the landscape.
Q: Can I make it in large batches?
A: Yes, but add sparkling water just before serving to keep it fizzy.
Q: Any fun variations?
A: Add a splash of elderflower syrup or a squeeze of lemon for extra zing.
🧾 Summary
Apfelsaft Gespritzt is Austria’s unofficial summer drink — crisp, bubbly, and endlessly refreshing. It’s proof that the simplest things often taste the best.
🌿 Recipe 3: Almkräutertee (Austrian Alpine Herbal Tea)
🍃 About This Recipe
Nothing says “Austrian comfort” like a steaming mug of herbal tea after a long day in the mountains. Almkräutertee means “alpine herb tea,” and it’s made from a blend of mountain herbs like chamomile, peppermint, lemon balm, and thyme.
This drink is more than just tea — it’s a reflection of Austria’s wellness traditions and connection with nature. Locals enjoy it year-round, whether for relaxation, digestion, or simply to warm up during snowy evenings.
🌼 Ingredients & Measurements
- 1 tsp dried chamomile
- 1 tsp dried peppermint
- 1 tsp dried lemon balm
- ½ tsp thyme
- 250 ml boiling water
- Honey or lemon (optional)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1.Combine herbs in a teapot or cup.
2.Pour boiling water over the herbs.
3.Let steep for 5–7 minutes.
4.Strain and sweeten with honey if desired.
💡 Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t oversteep — thyme can become too strong.
- Store dried herbs in an airtight jar away from sunlight.
- Use spring water if possible for the purest taste.
❓ FAQ
Q: Can I buy pre-made blends in Austria?
A: Yes! Many local tea houses sell regional herb mixes labeled “Almkräuter.”
Q: What’s the best time to drink it?
A: After meals or before bedtime — it’s soothing and helps digestion.
Q: Can I serve it cold?
A: Definitely! It makes a refreshing iced tea in summer.
🧾 Summary
Almkräutertee embodies the soul of Austrian living — natural, peaceful, and restorative. One sip, and you can almost feel the mountain breeze.
🏔️ Final Thoughts
Austria’s drink culture isn’t just about coffeehouses and wine — it’s about celebrating nature and tradition in every glass. From the floral sweetness of elderflower syrup to the crisp refreshment of apple spritzers and the calming aroma of alpine herbs, these drinks tell stories of Austrian landscapes and the people who cherish them.
The best part? You can easily make all of these at home — no fancy ingredients, no complicated steps. Just natural flavors, a touch of Austrian inspiration, and a moment to enjoy something truly refreshing.
So next time you need a break from your daily routine, pour yourself one of these Austrian classics — and take a little mental trip to the Alps. 🌄☕🍎
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