Are these elderberries?

[Graye]

We have encountered these really low bushes in a tiny local lane here in France. My first thought was "oh nice, elderberries!" As we are in the midst of making all sorts of country wines I thought these might be good candidates. However there is some nagging feeling at the back of my mind that they might not really be elderberries. Something to do with the lowness of the bushes and the fact that the berries are all upright (I'm sure they nornally droop down?), also the leaves are not as rich green as the ones I'm used to seeing. Can anyone give me an opinion please?




and a closer view

[Silver Ether]

The leaves are different to the ones here in the UK ... they could be a different variety

[Marc]

Yes, I can see what you mean, they are similar but don't look quite right.
Anyway, why bother, I think elderberry wine is really horrible, yuk.

Ok, so Im ready for the flak, ducking now lol.

Marc

[Silver Ether]

but but Marc they have may uses ... the syrup will help you get over a cold or flu a lot quicker and then there jams and jelly ... Cordial is great in the winter with hot water added and if your grown up and not driving add a tot of brandy to it ... mmmm make winter sound good ...

[Marc]

I just find the taste REALLY unpleasant, there's not much food I don't like, but elderberries, I cannot class as food!!

Blackberries, they are quite a different matter
blackberry wine, blackberry whiskey, blackberry crumble, - you name it

[Shirley]

elderberry and blackberry wine as a mix is very nice

Could it be Dwarf Elder

[Millymollymandy]

Looks like elderberry to me, go ahead and pick and take no notice of what Marc says about the taste! It is divine!

[Silver Ether]

ooh I think shirlz is right.