{"title":"Empress","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"empress-1908-indigo-gin-750ml","title":"Empress 1908 Indigo Gin 750ML","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEmpress 1908 Indigo Gin 750ML\u003c\/strong\u003e is a 42.5% ABV small-batch botanical gin from Victoria Distillers in British Columbia, Canada, in a 750ml bottle. Awarded 90 points by \u003cem\u003eWine Enthusiast\u003c\/em\u003e, this expression is distinguished by its vivid indigo color — derived from butterfly pea blossom — which shifts to pink when mixed with tonic or citrus, a reaction caused by pH-sensitive anthocyanin pigments in the petals.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 42.5% (85 proof)  |  Origin: British Columbia, Canada  |  Style: Contemporary Botanical Gin  |  Distillery: Victoria Distillers\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eVictoria Distillers, based on the shores of Sidney, British Columbia, micro-distills Empress 1908 in small-batch copper-pot stills using a corn base spirit. The botanical bill includes eight ingredients: juniper, grapefruit peel, coriander seed, ginger root, rose, cinnamon bark, butterfly pea blossom, and a proprietary tea blend sourced from the historic Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria — the hotel from which the gin takes its name and its \"1908\" designation, referencing the hotel's founding year. The butterfly pea blossom is infused separately and blended in after distillation, preserving both its color and its subtle earthy, floral character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose opens with classic juniper and bright grapefruit peel, followed by quieter notes of coriander seed and a faint floral lift. It reads relatively restrained — more traditional London Dry in character than the dramatic color suggests.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e Entry is smooth and malty, with juniper and citrus establishing themselves immediately. Ripe, slightly boiled grapefruit and resinous juniper cones take hold at mid-palate, while earthy coriander, green tea, and a bulky dry cinnamon bark develop toward the back. Subtle floral notes from the butterfly pea blossom and rose weave through without dominating, keeping the profile balanced and decidedly gin-forward.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium-long and elegant, with lingering grapefruit freshness and a dry cinnamon edge. White pepper and earthy tea leaves stew quietly on the palate as the spirit fades.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Empress 1908\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNeat or over a single large ice cube, the gin shows its juniper backbone and tea-driven complexity most clearly. The real theater, however, begins when you add tonic or citrus — triggering the indigo-to-pink color shift. \u003cstrong\u003eGin \u0026amp; Tonic:\u003c\/strong\u003e The classic pairing that showcases the color transformation while the tonic's quinine amplifies the grapefruit and cinnamon notes. \u003cstrong\u003eFrench 75:\u003c\/strong\u003e The lemon juice turns the gin pink in the flute, and the citrus-juniper core stands up well against champagne's acidity. \u003cstrong\u003eBee's Knees:\u003c\/strong\u003e Honey syrup rounds out the dry cinnamon and coriander, while lemon juice activates the color change for a visually stunning classic cocktail.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHosting cocktail nights where visual presentation matters as much as flavor\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting to a gin enthusiast who values unique production techniques\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing someone to craft gin through an approachable, juniper-forward profile\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding an Instagram-worthy home bar with genuinely well-made spirits\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Empress 1908 taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Empress 1908 tastes more like a classic gin than its color implies — juniper and grapefruit peel lead, supported by dry cinnamon bark, earthy coriander, and a subtle tea-like complexity from the Fairmont Empress blend. It is smooth, balanced, and decidedly citrus-forward.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Empress 1908 compare to Bombay Sapphire?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are juniper-and-citrus-driven gins at similar price points, but Empress 1908 runs slightly higher in ABV at 42.5% versus Bombay Sapphire's 47% (or 40% in some markets) and incorporates butterfly pea blossom and tea, which add earthy and floral dimensions Bombay Sapphire does not have. The color-changing property also gives Empress a visual element that is unique in the category.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Empress 1908 good for cocktails?\u003c\/strong\u003e Empress 1908 is excellent in cocktails, particularly any drink that includes citrus or tonic water, which triggers the signature indigo-to-pink color shift while the gin's juniper-citrus backbone holds its own against other ingredients.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Empress 1908 made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Empress 1908 is micro-distilled at Victoria Distillers in Sidney, British Columbia, Canada. The distillery sits on the waterfront of Vancouver Island, and the gin's tea botanical is sourced from the nearby Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Empress 1908?\u003c\/strong\u003e Smoked salmon and cream cheese canapés complement the gin's grapefruit and coriander notes. Lemon tarts echo the citrus profile while matching the botanical sweetness. Thai green papaya salad mirrors the ginger root and coriander. Soft-ripened cheeses like brie balance the dry cinnamon and juniper. Dark chocolate with candied ginger amplifies the gin's spice and earthy tea character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Empress 1908 come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Empress 1908 Indigo Gin is widely available in the standard 750ml bottle, with some markets also carrying a 375ml half-bottle format.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Empress 1908 worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Empress 1908 positions as a mid-premium craft gin, and its 90-point \u003cem\u003eWine Enthusiast\u003c\/em\u003e rating, copper-pot small-batch distillation, and genuinely unique color-changing property give it a strong value argument within its tier — particularly for anyone who values both presentation and substance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Empress 1908?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat separates Empress 1908 from the wave of flavored and colored gins that have flooded the market is that it genuinely tastes like gin. The juniper-grapefruit-coriander core would stand on its own merit in a blind tasting — the butterfly pea blossom adds a layer of earthy complexity without pulling the spirit into flavored-vodka territory. The 90-point \u003cem\u003eWine Enthusiast\u003c\/em\u003e score and silver medal at the 2019 New York International Spirits Competition confirm that critics evaluate it as a serious gin, not a novelty. At 42.5% ABV and micro-distilled in copper pot stills, it has enough weight and character for a proper Martini yet remains approachable enough to anchor a casual G\u0026amp;T — one that happens to turn pink when you squeeze in a lime.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Empress","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837731074217,"sku":"30871","price":37.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Empress-1908-Indigo-Gin__10440.jpg?v=1730492328"},{"product_id":"empress-1908-elderflower-rose-gin-750ml","title":"Empress 1908 Elderflower Rose Gin 750ML","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEmpress 1908 Elderflower Rose Gin 750ML\u003c\/strong\u003e is a naturally ruby-hued Canadian craft gin bottled at 42.5% ABV (85 proof) and distilled in small batches from nine botanicals. Scored 87 points by Tastings.com, this expression distinguishes itself through its jewel-toned color derived entirely from red rose petals and black carrot — no artificial dyes involved.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 42.5%  |  Origin: British Columbia, Canada  |  Style: Floral Botanical Gin  |  Distillery: Victoria Distillers\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eVictoria Distillers, based in the seaside town of Sidney, British Columbia, produces this gin in copper pot stills using a small-batch approach. The botanical bill includes juniper berries, rose petals, elderflower, lavender, orange peel, orris root, cinnamon, coriander, and black carrot. While the original Empress 1908 Indigo Gin draws its famous color from butterfly pea blossom, this Elderflower Rose expression achieves its distinctive ruby tone through the infusion of vibrant red rose petals and black carrot. That natural pigment will gradually fade with sunlight exposure, and the distillery recommends consuming an opened bottle within one year to enjoy its full visual and aromatic character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Elderflower leads the nose immediately, layered with lavender, rose water, and bitter orange peel. Beneath the floral bouquet, juniper and coriander provide a grounding herbal backbone.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The palate opens with pronounced elderflower and rose petal, arriving early and maintaining a steady presence throughout. Mid-palate brings coriander spice, orris root earthiness, and robust black pepper, with a hint of cinnamon adding warmth. The body is satiny and dry, landing in the light-to-medium range with more weight and roundness than its delicate appearance suggests.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e A lingering interplay of juniper, lavender, and lemon pith carries through on a dry, clean finish. Subtle mint and thyme notes appear late, leaving an herbal signature that fades gradually.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Empress Elderflower Rose\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNeat or over a single large ice cube, this gin rewards slow sipping — the floral complexity reveals itself as the spirit opens up. A splash of tonic and a thin grapefruit wheel makes a striking G\u0026amp;T that showcases the elderflower and rose. A \u003cstrong\u003eFrench 75\u003c\/strong\u003e benefits from the gin's floral-forward character, replacing herbal sharpness with a perfumed elegance alongside champagne and lemon. A \u003cstrong\u003eBee's Knees\u003c\/strong\u003e pairs the elderflower and lavender notes beautifully with honey syrup, amplifying the gin's natural sweetness. A \u003cstrong\u003eClover Club\u003c\/strong\u003e leans into the berry and rose tones, where raspberry syrup harmonizes with the black carrot and rose petal undertones.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting a gin enthusiast who already owns the classic Empress Indigo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding a visually dramatic cocktail menu for a dinner party\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExploring floral gins beyond London Dry styles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpringtime or garden-party entertaining where presentation matters\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Empress Elderflower Rose taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e It leads with prominent elderflower and rose petal, supported by juniper, coriander spice, and a surprising earthy depth from orris root. The body is satiny and dry with hints of black pepper, cinnamon, and lavender throughout.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Empress Elderflower Rose compare to Empress 1908 Indigo Gin?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both share Victoria Distillers' copper pot still production and a core botanical foundation of juniper, coriander, and citrus peel, but the Elderflower Rose expression replaces butterfly pea blossom with rose petals and black carrot, shifting the color from indigo to ruby and the flavor profile toward a more overtly floral and peppery character. The Indigo leans slightly more citrus-forward, while the Elderflower Rose puts elderflower and rose at center stage.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Empress Elderflower Rose good for cocktails?\u003c\/strong\u003e Its floral intensity and dry, medium-weight body make it an excellent cocktail gin, particularly in drinks that benefit from elderflower or rose notes — think French 75s, Clover Clubs, or any tonic-based serve where visual drama adds value.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Empress Elderflower Rose made?\u003c\/strong\u003e It is distilled at Victoria Distillers in Sidney, British Columbia, Canada, a coastal distillery on Vancouver Island known for its small-batch approach to gin production.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Empress Elderflower Rose?\u003c\/strong\u003e Soft goat cheese with honey complements the elderflower and lavender notes. Smoked salmon mirrors the gin's earthy undertones. Lemon tarts echo the citrus pith on the finish. Berry-topped pavlova or meringue aligns with the rose petal character. Herb-crusted chicken brings out the juniper and coriander spice.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Empress Elderflower Rose come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard offering is a 750ml bottle, which is the most widely available format for this expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Empress Elderflower Rose worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e It positions as a premium craft gin within the broader botanical gin category, and the all-natural color, nine-botanical recipe, and small-batch copper pot distillation place it above standard shelf gins in both complexity and production quality — competitive value for what it delivers.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Empress Elderflower Rose?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe defining feature here is authenticity of color — the ruby hue comes entirely from red rose petals and black carrot, not from synthetic additives, which remains uncommon among naturally colored gins. The nine-botanical recipe balances classic gin structure (juniper, coriander, citrus peel) with a genuinely floral personality led by elderflower that persists from first nosing through the final sip. Victoria Distillers' copper pot still process and small-batch discipline keep the flavors integrated rather than competing, yielding a gin with real weight despite its light-to-medium body. For drinkers who admired the original Empress Indigo but wanted a warmer, more rose-driven expression, this bottling fills that space convincingly.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Empress","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44839196721321,"sku":"38345","price":37.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Empress-1908-Elderflower-Rose-Gin__79893.jpg?v=1730517887"},{"product_id":"empress-1908-cucumber-lemon-gin-750m","title":"Empress 1908 Cucumber Lemon Gin 750ML","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEmpress 1908 Cucumber Lemon Gin 750ML\u003c\/strong\u003e is a small-batch Canadian craft gin bottled at 42.5% ABV (85 proof) that foregrounds cucumber and lemon botanicals over a juniper backbone. Rated 92 points by Tastings.com and awarded an A+ from Good Spirits News, this expression stands as the first completely clear and colorless release in the Empress 1908 lineup — a deliberate departure from the brand's signature butterfly pea flower color-changing gins.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 42.5%  |  Origin: Sidney, British Columbia, Canada  |  Style: Botanical Gin (Cucumber \u0026amp; Lemon)  |  Distillery: Victoria Distillers\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eVictoria Distillers, based in the seaside town of Sidney on Vancouver Island, produces the Empress 1908 range in partnership with the historic Fairmont Empress Hotel. The Cucumber Lemon expression is handcrafted in traditional copper pot stills using eight botanicals — juniper berries, cucumber, fresh lemon zest, jasmine, star anise, and additional supporting aromatics. Unlike every other Empress 1908 gin, this bottling omits butterfly pea flower entirely, stripping away the famous indigo-to-pink color shift in favor of a crystal-clear spirit that puts the cucumber and citrus character front and center without visual distraction.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose opens with an immediate rush of cool cucumber, almost spa-like in its freshness. Behind that initial vegetal brightness sit layers of lemon zest, pink grapefruit peel, and a subtle green herbal quality reminiscent of zucchini blossoms.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e On the palate, cucumber dominates the entry — brightly vegetal and crisp rather than watery. The mid-palate shifts toward candied lemon peel and a rounder, juicier orange citrus note, while juniper stays restrained, providing structural backbone rather than leading the conversation. A balanced, airy sweetness keeps the profile from veering too dry, finishing with a lemonade-like brightness that holds everything together.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish is medium in length, clean, and refreshingly dry with lingering cucumber coolness and a trace of orange zest and mineral salt. There is no bitterness or heat — just an effortless fade that invites another sip.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Empress Cucumber Lemon\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eServed neat or over a single large ice cube, this gin rewards attention — the cucumber emerges more dramatically as the spirit opens up at slightly lower temperatures. Its bright, produce-forward profile also makes it an exceptional cocktail base. A \u003cstrong\u003eGin \u0026amp; Tonic\u003c\/strong\u003e with a quality Indian tonic and a cucumber ribbon lets the botanical character shine without competition. A \u003cstrong\u003eCucumber Collins\u003c\/strong\u003e plays to the gin's natural lemon and cucumber strengths, requiring almost no additional garnish to feel complete. And a \u003cstrong\u003eGimlet\u003c\/strong\u003e works beautifully here because the lime juice amplifies the citrus notes while the cucumber adds a refreshing dimension rarely found in that classic serve.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSummer entertaining where guests gravitate toward lighter, refreshing spirits\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting a gin enthusiast who already knows the classic Empress 1908 and wants to explore the range\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding a home bar with distinctive, cocktail-versatile craft gins\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing someone who finds traditional juniper-heavy gins too assertive to a more approachable style\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Empress Cucumber Lemon taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e The dominant flavors are fresh cucumber and bright lemon citrus, supported by restrained juniper and a touch of airy sweetness. It drinks clean and crisp with a spa-water freshness that sets it apart from classic London Dry–style gins.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Empress Cucumber Lemon compare to Hendrick's Gin?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both gins feature cucumber as a defining botanical, but Empress Cucumber Lemon leans more aggressively into cucumber and lemon while keeping juniper in the background, whereas Hendrick's balances its cucumber-rose signature with a more pronounced juniper and floral character. Empress Cucumber Lemon is also bottled at a slightly higher ABV (42.5% vs. Hendrick's 41.4%) and carries a distinctly citrus-forward profile that Hendrick's does not emphasize.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Empress Cucumber Lemon good for cocktails?\u003c\/strong\u003e Its bright cucumber-citrus character and balanced 42.5% ABV make it an excellent cocktail gin, particularly in warm-weather serves like Collins variations, Gin \u0026amp; Tonics, and spritzes where freshness is the priority.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Empress Cucumber Lemon made?\u003c\/strong\u003e It is distilled by Victoria Distillers in Sidney, British Columbia, on Canada's Vancouver Island. The distillery produces the full Empress 1908 range in small batches using copper pot stills.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Empress Cucumber Lemon?\u003c\/strong\u003e Fresh oysters or ceviche complement the gin's cool cucumber notes. Grilled shrimp with lemon butter echoes the citrus profile. Light salads with goat cheese and herbs mirror the green, vegetal character. Smoked salmon on crostini works well with the gin's subtle saline quality. And sushi — particularly lighter fish like yellowtail — pairs naturally with the clean, refreshing finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Empress Cucumber Lemon come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard widely available format is the 750ml bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Empress Cucumber Lemon worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e It positions as a premium craft gin, sitting above mass-market bottles but within the range of other respected small-batch distillery releases. The 92-point Tastings.com score and A+ from Good Spirits News suggest the quality supports its price tier, especially for drinkers who value cucumber-forward profiles and small-batch copper-pot distillation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Empress Cucumber Lemon?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis is the only expression in the Empress 1908 lineup that deliberately abandons the butterfly pea flower that made the brand famous — a bold move that signals confidence in the liquid itself. The 92-point score from Tastings.com and A+ from Good Spirits News validate that confidence with critical recognition. Where most cucumber gins treat the botanical as a supporting player, Victoria Distillers pushes it to center stage here, backed by a generous dose of fresh lemon zest and precise copper-pot distillation at a sturdy 42.5% ABV. For drinkers who want the craft credentials and small-batch quality of the Empress 1908 range without the color-changing spectacle, this clear expression makes a compelling case on flavor alone.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Empress","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44839406960809,"sku":"39658","price":37.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Empress-1908-Cucumber-Lemon-Gin__40368.jpg?v=1730520800"},{"product_id":"empress-1908-indigo-0-0-non-alcoholic-gin-750ml","title":"Empress 1908 Indigo 0.0 Non-Alcoholic Gin 750ML","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEmpress 1908 Indigo 0.0 Non-Alcoholic Gin 750ML\u003c\/strong\u003e is a 0.0% ABV non-alcoholic gin alternative from Victoria Distillers in British Columbia, Canada, bottled at 750ml. Its signature indigo hue — derived from butterfly pea blossom — shifts to lavender, pink, or fuchsia when mixed with tonic or citrus, making it one of the most visually distinctive spirit-free options on the market.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 0.0%  |  Origin: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada  |  Non-Alcoholic Gin Alternative  |  Producer: Victoria Distillers\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eVictoria Distillers, based on the shores of Sidney, British Columbia, produces Empress 1908 Indigo 0.0 as the alcohol-free counterpart to its award-winning Empress 1908 Gin. Rather than distilling and then dealcoholizing, the 0.0 expression is built from the ground up by blending hand-curated, all-natural botanical flavors — juniper, grapefruit, and butterfly pea flower — with filtered water, a touch of cane sugar, and citric acid. The butterfly pea blossom was originally discovered in a bespoke tea blend created for the historic Fairmont Empress hotel in Victoria, and it remains the botanical signature of the entire Empress 1908 range, contributing both an earthy depth and the spirit's remarkable natural pigmentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bright citrus zest leads the nose, followed by a clean juniper backbone and soft floral undertones from the butterfly pea blossom. There is a subtle herbaceous quality that keeps the aromatics layered without becoming perfumed.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The palate opens crisp and lively with grapefruit and citrus zest at the entry. Mid-palate, soft botanical complexity emerges alongside a gentle peppery spice. A velvety herbal warmth provides body that many non-alcoholic spirits struggle to achieve, with light cane sugar sweetness keeping everything balanced.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Clean and moderately lingering, with citrus peel and gentle floral notes trailing off. A faint sweetness rounds out the close without becoming cloying.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Empress 0.0\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eServed over ice with premium tonic water, Empress 0.0 produces a striking color change from deep indigo to soft pink or lavender — a dramatic visual that makes it an ideal centerpiece for alcohol-free entertaining. A squeeze of lemon or lime accelerates the color shift while lifting the citrus character. Three cocktail applications worth trying: a \u003cstrong\u003eVirgin G\u0026amp;T\u003c\/strong\u003e, where the tonic's quinine bitterness amplifies the juniper and grapefruit botanicals; a \u003cstrong\u003eNon-Alcoholic Bramble\u003c\/strong\u003e, with blackberry liqueur substitute and lemon juice playing against the floral backbone; and a \u003cstrong\u003eSpirit-Free French 75\u003c\/strong\u003e, substituting Empress 0.0 for gin and topping with sparkling water or non-alcoholic sparkling wine, where the effervescence highlights the citrus zest.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHosting inclusive dinner parties where some guests prefer alcohol-free drinks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDry January or sober-curious exploration without sacrificing visual flair\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting someone who appreciates craft beverages but avoids alcohol\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreating Instagram-worthy mocktails with a genuine color-changing effect\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Empress 0.0 taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Empress 0.0 delivers crisp citrus zest and juniper up front, followed by subtle peppery spice and a velvety herbal warmth, finishing clean with lingering grapefruit and gentle floral notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Empress 0.0 compare to Lyre's Dry London Spirit?\u003c\/strong\u003e Lyre's Dry London Spirit leans into a drier, more classic London Dry gin profile with a fuller body and notable mouthfeel, while Empress 0.0 distinguishes itself with its butterfly pea flower–driven color-changing ability and a slightly sweeter, more citrus-forward botanical balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Empress 0.0 good for cocktails?\u003c\/strong\u003e Empress 0.0 works well in mocktails and non-alcoholic cocktails, particularly those where visual presentation matters — the color-changing property creates an interactive experience in drinks mixed with tonic or citrus juice.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Empress 0.0 made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Empress 0.0 is produced by Victoria Distillers, located in Sidney on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada — the same facility that produces the original Empress 1908 Gin.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Empress 0.0?\u003c\/strong\u003e Smoked salmon canapés complement the citrus and herbal botanicals; fresh goat cheese salads echo the floral character; grilled shrimp with citrus butter mirrors the grapefruit notes; cucumber sandwiches align with the clean, refreshing profile; and lemon tarts accent the citrus finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Empress 0.0 come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Empress 1908 Indigo 0.0 is available in the standard 750ml bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Empress 0.0 worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Empress 0.0 positions in the premium tier of non-alcoholic spirits, which is justified by its all-natural botanical blend and the unique butterfly pea flower color-changing feature — a genuine differentiator that most competitors in the category lack.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Empress 0.0?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe non-alcoholic spirits category has grown crowded, but Empress 0.0 holds a singular advantage: the butterfly pea blossom color change is not a gimmick layered onto a generic formula — it is rooted in the same Fairmont Empress tea blend that inspired the original gin. That visual drama solves one of the biggest challenges in spirit-free drinking: making the experience feel special rather than substitutional. The botanical profile delivers genuine juniper-and-citrus character with enough body to hold up in mixed drinks, and Good Spirits News awarded it an A- rating. For anyone building a credible non-alcoholic bar, Empress 0.0 fills a role no other product in the category currently occupies.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Empress","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46716065185961,"sku":"41809","price":34.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Empress1908Indigo0.0Non-AlcoholicGin750ML.webp?v=1769822807"}],"url":"https:\/\/theliquorbarn.com\/collections\/empress.oembed","provider":"The Liquor Barn","version":"1.0","type":"link"}