Empress 1908 Indigo Gin was inspired by tradition but created with a modern twist. Handcrafted in small batch copper-pot stills, Empress 1908 Gin is made by Victoria Distillers and inspired by the legendary Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria, British Columbia. Its name pays tribute to the hotel, which opened in 1908 and is famous for its afternoon tea service. Master Distiller Phil Lecours crafted the spirit to reflect both the elegance of the Empress Hotel and the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Aside from its award-winning flavor, what truly sets Empress 1908 Indigo Gin apart is its signature indigo color. Discovered in another bespoke Empress tea blend, the butterfly pea blossom imbues the gin with a distinctive earthy note that balances traditional citrus notes and yields a rich pigmentation. This deep indigo hue changes to bright lavender, soft pink, or fuchsia depending on the mixer, adding to the rich sensory experience that has made it a favorite among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts.
Beyond its striking appearance, Empress 1908 is widely praised for its balanced and layered flavor profile. It features eight carefully selected botanicals, including juniper, grapefruit peel, rose petal, and butterfly pea blossom. The result is a gin that delivers classic juniper structure with bright citrus notes, warm spice, and delicate floral undertones. It’s smooth enough for a simple gin and tonic yet complex enough for refined cocktails. Empress 1908 stands out because it combines heritage, craftsmanship, visual appeal, and exceptional taste — making it both a conversation piece and a seriously well-made gin. The Empress 1908 Gin range includes Empress 1908 Indigo Gin, Empress 1908 Elderflower Rose Gin, Empress 1908 Cucumber Lemon Gin and their newest release, Empress 1908 0.0 Indigo.
