Section Six Teas, Beers and Wines

Teas and drinks made from wild flowers are very traditional and can be surprisingly exciting and worth taking the time and trouble of collecting and brewing. Yarrow is a terrific example. The first taste of a tea made from the leaves convinced me of its value, I hope it will convince you – lime, or linden tea as it is called in Germany, is one of the most important natural teas, said to be good for people who suffer from insomnia, but the undoubted star is the flower of the common elder, which make the most refreshing of summer drinks. Since we can no longer refer to it as elderflower champagne I am at a loss what to call the very light bubbly wine I make with fresh elder flowers. Homemade wines and beers have declined in popularity over the last few years, but they are exciting to make and drink if you have the patience to wait for them to mature.