Empress 1908 Indigo Gin 750ml

Empress 1908 Indigo Gin

Category: Gin
ABV (Alcohol by Volume): 42.5%
Origin: Canada (Distilled in British Columbia)
Bottle Size: 750ml
Distillery: Victoria Distillers

Product Description:

Empress Indigo Gin is a vibrant and visually captivating gin made by Victoria Distillers, located in British Columbia, Canada. Known for its stunning indigo hue, which comes from the infusion of butterfly pea flower, Empress Gin combines a traditional gin base with unique botanicals to create a one-of-a-kind drinking experience. The use of the butterfly pea flower not only imparts a striking color but also enhances the gin's aroma and flavor profile, making it a beautiful and flavorful spirit to enjoy.

Crafted in small batches, Empress Gin is distilled in a copper pot still and features a carefully balanced blend of botanicals, including juniper, coriander, grapefruit peel, and a touch of lemongrass, among others. The butterfly pea flower is the gin’s star ingredient, and its inclusion offers a delicate floral character alongside a natural blue-to-purple color shift when mixed with acidic ingredients, such as tonic water or citrus.

Empress Indigo Gin is perfect for those seeking a visually stunning gin that is both bold in flavor and smooth on the palate, and it shines in a variety of cocktails and gin-forward drinks.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose:
  The aroma of Empress Indigo Gin is fragrant and inviting, with delicate floral notes from the butterfly pea flower. The gin also presents crisp citrus and earthy undertones, especially from the grapefruit peel, complemented by a soft herbal character and the familiar piney scent of juniper. The bouquet is rounded out by hints of spice and a subtle hint of lemongrass, creating an aromatic, refreshing opening.

• Palate:
  On the palate, Empress Gin is smooth and vibrant, with a rich and well-balanced flavor profile. The juniper and citrus elements are forward, offering a traditional gin base with zesty grapefruit and a light, peppery spice. The presence of the butterfly pea flower adds a smooth floral layer, which is slightly earthy yet refreshing. The lemongrass provides a touch of bright herbal flavor, while the finish is clean and slightly dry, with a lingering citrus zest and an herbal, floral aftertaste.

• Finish:
  The finish is crisp and refreshing, with lingering notes of citrus and a soft herbal layer. The floral influence from the butterfly pea flower becomes more pronounced on the aftertaste, leaving a smooth, aromatic finish that beckons another sip. The overall experience is light yet complex, making it an ideal gin for sipping neat or enjoying in cocktails.

Key Botanicals:

• Juniper Berries
• Grapefruit Peel
• Coriander
• Lemongrass
• Butterfly Pea Flower (responsible for the distinctive indigo color)
• Other Botanicals: Angelica Root, Ginger, Cinnamon, and others for added complexity.

Serving Suggestions:

• Classic Serve:
  Empress Indigo Gin shines in a Gin and Tonic. Serve it with a high-quality tonic water, and garnish with a wedge of grapefruit or a twist of lemon to enhance the citrus notes. The beautiful indigo color will gradually shift to purple when mixed with citrus or tonic, making for a visually stunning drink.

• Empress Negroni:
  For a twist on a classic cocktail, mix Empress Gin with Campari and sweet vermouth to create a vibrant and uniquely flavored Negroni.

• Empress Gin Martini:
  For a more sophisticated presentation, serve Empress Gin in a classic martini with a lemon twist or a thin slice of cucumber as garnish.

• Empress and Tonic with Lemon or Lime:
  Add a splash of lime or lemon juice for an extra zesty touch, making the drink even more refreshing and highlighting the gin’s citrus profile.

Cocktail Recipes:

1. Empress Gin & Tonic:

   • Ingredients:
     • 50ml Empress Indigo Gin
     • 150ml tonic water
     • Garnish: Fresh grapefruit or lemon wedge
   • Instructions:
     Fill a glass with ice, pour in the gin, top with tonic water, and garnish with a slice of grapefruit or lemon. Watch the beautiful color transformation as the gin mixes with the tonic.

2. Empress Negroni:

   • Ingredients:
     • 30ml Empress Indigo Gin
     • 30ml Campari
     • 30ml Sweet Vermouth
     • Garnish: Orange peel
   • Instructions:
     Stir all ingredients with ice and strain into a glass. Garnish with a twist of orange peel for a slightly bitter, aromatic cocktail.

3. Empress Gin Sour:

   • Ingredients:
     • 50ml Empress Indigo Gin
     • 25ml fresh lemon juice
     • 15ml simple syrup
     • 1 egg white (optional, for frothiness)
     • Garnish: Lemon twist
   • Instructions:
     Shake all ingredients vigorously with ice, strain into a chilled coupe glass, and garnish with a lemon twist.

Packaging:

Empress Indigo Gin is packaged in a distinctive tall, slender bottle with a deep blue and gold label. The deep blue color of the bottle mirrors the gin's indigo hue, and the design evokes elegance and sophistication. The bottle’s clean lines and luxurious feel make it a visually striking addition to any bar.

Awards and Recognition:

Empress Indigo Gin has garnered acclaim for both its unique flavor and its stunning visual appeal. It has earned numerous awards in international spirits competitions, including gold medals at various events, solidifying its reputation as a premium and innovative product.

Why Empress Indigo Gin?

Empress Indigo Gin offers something truly special for those seeking a gin that stands out in both flavor and appearance. The combination of traditional botanicals and the distinctive influence of the butterfly pea flower creates a unique drinking experience. Whether you’re a gin connoisseur or simply looking for a gin that offers something visually and flavorfully exciting, Empress Indigo Gin is an exceptional choice.

Empress Indigo Gin is perfect for those who appreciate both beauty and complexity in their drinks. It’s a must-try for gin lovers and anyone looking to elevate their cocktail game with a visually stunning and delicious spirit.