Empress 1908 Cucumber Lemon Gin is a refreshing and aromatic addition to the Empress 1908 lineup from Victoria Distillers in British Columbia. Inspired by the flavors of afternoon tea, this clear gin features a blend of eight botanicals, including juniper berries, lemon peel, garden cucumber, jasmine, and cardamom. Bottled at 42.5% ABV, it aims to deliver a vibrant and crisp gin experience.
Tasting Notes:
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Aroma: Expect a bright and inviting aroma dominated by fresh lemon peel and crisp garden cucumber, supported by classic juniper notes and subtle floral hints of jasmine with a touch of spice from cardamom.
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Palate: The palate offers a refreshing and balanced profile. Lively citrus notes from the lemon are prominent, complemented by the clean, crisp flavor of cucumber. Juniper provides a solid gin base, while the jasmine adds a soft floral touch and cardamom contributes a gentle spice. Some detect a slight sweetness reminiscent of lemon-lime soda.
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Finish: The finish is clean and crisp, with the refreshing notes of cucumber and lemon lingering alongside a subtle warmth from the spice and a hint of juniper.
Awards and Recognition: While specific awards for Empress 1908 Cucumber Lemon Gin are still emerging as it is a more recent release (Spring 2024), the Empress 1908 brand has received numerous accolades, suggesting a high standard of quality for this new expression.
Overall Impression: Empress 1908 Cucumber Lemon Gin offers a bright, fresh, and distinctly refreshing take on gin, perfectly capturing the essence of a sophisticated afternoon tea. The vibrant citrus and crisp cucumber notes are beautifully balanced with the classic gin botanicals and a hint of floral spice, creating a versatile spirit that shines in a variety of cocktails. It's particularly well-suited for refreshing drinks like a Cucumber & Tonic, a Basil Gimlet, or a Hugo Twist, and its clean profile makes it a delightful choice for warm weather enjoyment.