An up close photo of Empress Gin Cocktail

The Empress Gin Cocktail is a stunning, purple drink that's easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Its refreshing blend of floral gin, citrus, and tonic creates a deliciously unique cocktail everyone will love.

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Table of Contents

Ingredients
Substitutions and Additions
How to Make an Empress Gin Cocktail
Why You'll Love This Empress Gin Cocktail Recipe
Recipe FAQ
Serving FAQ
Storage FAQ
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Table of Contents

Sip on elegance with this refreshing Empress Gin Cocktail! Bursting with vibrant flavors, this easy recipe mixes the delicate notes of Empress 1908 gin with a twist of citrus and tonic. The stunning purple color adds a wow factor to any occasion, making it perfect for your next gathering or date night. You'll love how quickly you can create this impressive drink at home!

This recipe is simple to follow, and the guide below includes step-by-step photos and directions. We’ve added pro tips and tricks to help you perfect it, plus answers to the most frequently asked questions.

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This Empress 1908 Gin Cocktail takes just 5 minutes to make, so it’s perfect for any party or special occasion. The vibrant purple color and floral notes of Empress 1908 gin make this purple gin drink truly stand out. It's a show-stopping drink that’s easy to create and sure to impress your guests. Whether you're hosting a fancy dinner or just want a fun drink at home, this cocktail is a must-try!

Ingredients

What you'll need to make this Empress Gin Cocktail:

Ice
¼ cup of ruby red grapefruit juice
½ ounce of simple syrup
⅓ cup of tonic water
1½ ounces of Empress gin
Small slice of ruby red grapefruit, garnish
Sprig of fresh mint, garnish

Substitutions and Additions

Personalize your Empress Gin recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding delicious extras! These simple changes can make your cocktail uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions.

Add Fresh Herbs: Add fresh mint or rosemary for a burst of herbaceous flavor that complements the floral notes in the gin. These easy substitutions and additions can easily be swapped out while still maintaining the deliciousness of this refreshing cocktail.

Substitute Empress 1908 Gin: Use traditional gin or your favorite flavored gin for a twist in this gin cocktail.

Substitute Tonic Water: Swap tonic with sparkling water or club soda for a lighter, less sweet version of this cocktail.

How to Make an Empress Gin Cocktail

Pro Tip

Empress gin is slightly different from standard clear gins as it is unique in its beautiful blueish-purple color. It gets its color from the butterfly pea blossom.

This unique gin will change its color to various shades of light purple and pink depending on the mixer that is added. The acid from the tonic water and the citrus you use will affect the color change.

Follow along with our pictures, step-by-step instructions, and the tips and tricks listed below. This recipe is quick and easy to make. Let’s get started and mix up some perfection!

FIRST STEP: Fill a 10-ounce highball glass with ice.

SECOND STEP: Add ruby red grapefruit juice, simple syrup, tonic water, and Empress gin to the glass.

Be sure to pour the Empress gin slowly to keep it from mixing with the other layers too much.

Pro Tip

To slow down the addition of the Empress gin, pour it over the back of a spoon. This will help ensure it doesn’t disturb the other layers of the drink.

ruby red grapefruit juice, simple syrup, tonic water and empress gin added to the glass

THIRD STEP: Garnish the rim of the glass with a small slice of ruby red grapefruit and a fresh mint sprig.

Pro Tip

You will want to serve this beautiful Empress gin cocktail while the drink’s layers are still separated.

However, you will want to stir gently with a cocktail stirrer or straw before drinking for the best flavor.

How To Serve this Empress Gin Cocktail

Personalize your Gin Cocktails recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding delicious extras! These simple changes can make your cocktail uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions.

Substitute Empress 1908 Gin: Use traditional gin or your favorite flavored gin for a twist in your Empress Gin Cocktail.

Substitute Tonic Water: Swap tonic with sparkling water or club soda for a lighter, less sweet version of this cocktail.

Add Fresh Herbs: Add fresh mint or rosemary for a burst of herbaceous flavor that complements the floral notes in the gin.

Add Fresh Citrus: Squeeze in lemon, lime, or grapefruit juice to enhance the citrusy zing in your cocktail.

Sweeten with Syrup: Add a dash of elder flower or simple syrup for a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the gin’s botanicals.

Why You'll Love This Empress Gin Cocktail Recipe

The Empress Gin Martini is more than just a drink—it's a beloved favorite for several refreshing reasons:

A Stunning Showpiece: The vibrant purple hue of Empress 1908 gin makes this cocktail a visual masterpiece. It’s certain to impress at any gathering, adding elegance and charm with every sip.

Balanced and Flavorful: The gin’s delicate floral notes blend beautifully with the tartness of citrus and the fizz of the tonic. Every sip delivers a perfect balance of flavors that’s light yet bold.

Effortless Sophistication: You’ll love how quick and easy this cocktail is to make. In just minutes, you’ll create a drink that feels luxurious without the hassle of complicated steps.

Whether enjoyed for a special occasion or a casual night in, this cocktail always delights!

Recipe FAQ

Can I make an Empress Gin Cocktail without tonic water?
Yes, you can! Swap tonic water with club soda or sparkling water for a lighter, refreshing cocktail.

What makes Empress Gin turn purple?
Empress Gin’s stunning purple color comes from butterfly pea blossoms, which add a natural, vibrant hue to the cocktail.

Can I prepare an Empress Gin Cocktail ahead of time?
You can mix the ingredients a few hours before serving, but add tonic or sparkling water just before drinking.

Does Empress Gin change color when mixed with citrus?
Yes, when mixed with citrus juice, Empress Gin changes from purple to pink, creating a visually stunning and fun twist!

A glass of Empress Gin Cocktail with a jug of juice, two grapefruits, one cut into slices and a bottle of gin on the side

Serving FAQ

How should I serve Gin Cocktail at a party?
Serve Empress Gin Cocktails in chilled glasses with plenty of ice and garnish with citrus slices for a vibrant touch.

What type of glass is best for serving Empress Gin Cocktail?
A highball or gin glass works perfectly, allowing the drink’s color and garnishes to be showcased beautifully.

Can I serve Empress 1908 Cocktails with no ice?
Yes, you can serve it without ice, but chilled glasses or gin stones will keep your drink cold and refreshing.

How should I garnish this Cocktail?
Yes, garnish with a slice of lemon or lime to enhance the citrus notes and elevate the drink’s visual appeal.

A glass of Empress Gin Cocktail with a bottle of gin beside it

Storage FAQ

For the best results, follow the tips and tricks below for storing your Empress Gin Cocktail. Whether making ahead or saving leftovers, we’ve got you covered from chilling to serving it fresh.

Can I make Empress Gin Cocktail ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the gin and citrus in advance. Add tonic or sparkling water just before serving for the freshest taste.

How should I store leftover Empress Gin Cocktail?
Store leftover gin and citrus juice separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Can I freeze an Empress Gin Cocktail?
No, freezing gin cocktails isn’t recommended as it affects the texture and taste of the drink.

What’s the best way to re-chill the cocktail before serving?
Chill the cocktail mixture in the fridge, then add fresh ice and tonic water right before serving for the best flavor.