Empress 1908 Gin gets its unique purple color from the infusion of butterfly pea blossoms. The butterfly pea flower, scientifically known as Clitoria ternatea, is a plant native to Southeast Asia. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and cooking, and its vibrant blue petals are known for their natural dyeing properties.
When the butterfly pea blossoms are steeped in alcohol, their pigments are extracted and infused into the gin, resulting in a stunning deep blueish-purple hue. The color is entirely natural and comes directly from the petals of the flower. No artificial additives or colorings are used in the production of Empress Gin, making it a visually striking and all-natural spirit.
One fascinating aspect of butterfly pea flowers is their ability to change color depending on the pH level of the liquid they are mixed with. When mixed with acidic ingredients like citrus juice or tonic water, the gin’s color can shift from purple to various shades of pink and light lavender. This color-changing property adds an element of surprise and intrigue to cocktails made with Empress Gin, making them visually captivating and even more enjoyable to drink.
The infusion of butterfly pea blossoms not only gives Empress 1908 Gin its beautiful color, but it also imparts a delicate floral aroma and a subtle earthy flavor to the spirit. The gin itself is crafted using a blend of botanicals, including juniper, grapefruit peel, ginger root, cinnamon bark, coriander seed, rose petal, and others. These botanicals, combined with the infusion of butterfly pea blossoms, create a complex and well-balanced gin with a unique twist.
The story behind Empress 1908 Gin’s vibrant color goes beyond aesthetics. The brand takes inspiration from the famous Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria, British Columbia, which is known for its iconic afternoon tea service. The gin pays homage to the hotel’s elegance and charm, and the purple color is a nod to the regal and sophisticated atmosphere of the establishment.
Empress 1908 Gin is purple because of the infusion of butterfly pea blossoms. The natural pigments from the petals of the butterfly pea flowers create a deep blueish-purple hue, giving the gin its visually striking appearance. When mixed with acidic ingredients, the color can change to various shades of pink and light lavender, adding an element of surprise to cocktails. The infusion of butterfly pea blossoms also contributes to the gin’s delicate floral aroma and subtle earthy flavor. Empress Gin’s purple color is not only visually appealing but also adds a touch of elegance and uniqueness to the spirit.