As a lover of sophisticated spirits and refined flavors, you’re probably eager to elevate your cocktail game. Enter Empress Gin, a premium gin that offers a unique and nuanced flavor profile perfect for crafting exquisite cocktails. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 20 breathtaking Empress Gin recipes that will impress even the most discerning palates.
From classic combinations like the Empress Gin Martini with Butterfly Pea Flower Infusion to innovative creations like the Empress Gin Smash with Basil and Strawberries, these recipes showcase the versatility and depth of Empress Gin. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just starting your cocktail journey, we’ve got you covered with these 20 exquisite Empress Gin recipes.
Empress Gin and Tonic with Lavender Garnish
Elevate your gin and tonic game with this elegant and refreshing twist featuring Empress Gin and a fragrant lavender garnish. This simple yet sophisticated cocktail is perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Empress Gin
– 4 oz tonic water
– Slices of fresh lime
– Fresh lavender buds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour the Empress Gin over the ice.
3. Top with tonic water and stir gently to combine.
4. Express a slice of fresh lime over the cocktail and drop it in.
5. Garnish with a sprig of fresh lavender, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just 2 minutes.
Empress Gin Fizz with Elderflower Syrup
Elevate your cocktail game with this delightful Empress Gin Fizz, infused with the subtle sweetness of elderflower syrup. Perfect for warm evenings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Empress Gin
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz elderflower syrup (homemade or store-bought)
– 3 oz club soda
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Sprig of mint, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add Empress Gin, fresh lime juice, and elderflower syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for approximately 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and a sprig of mint.
Cooking Time: None! Simply shake, strain, and serve.
Enjoy your Empress Gin Fizz with Elderflower Syrup!
Empress Gin Martini with Butterfly Pea Flower Infusion
A refreshing twist on the classic martini, this recipe combines the smoothness of Empress Gin with the subtle sweetness and floral notes of butterfly pea flower infusion.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Empress Gin
– 1/2 oz butterfly pea flower-infused simple syrup (see below for infusion instructions)
– 1/2 oz dry vermouth
– Lemon twist or edible flowers, for garnish
Butterfly Pea Flower Infusion:
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon dried butterfly pea flowers
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Combine the water and butterfly pea flowers in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Add the sugar, stirring until dissolved.
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add Empress Gin, butterfly pea flower-infused simple syrup, and dry vermouth.
3. Shake gently for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or edible flowers.
Cooking Time: None (just steep the mixture!)
Empress Gin Sour with Lemon and Egg White
A refreshing twist on the classic gin sour, this recipe adds a silky smoothness from egg white and a burst of citrus flavor from lemon. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion when you want to sip on something delightful.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Empress Gin
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar:water, dissolved)
– 1 large egg white
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add Empress Gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Crack in the egg white and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds, until the mixture becomes frothy and doubled in size.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Empress Gin Negroni with a Citrus Twist
Elevate your classic Negroni game with this refreshing twist, featuring Empress Gin and a hint of citrus. Perfect for warm evenings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Empress Gin
– 1/2 oz Campari
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– Orange twist, for garnish
– Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Empress Gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
3. Stir gently for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Express a strip of orange peel over the drink to release its oils, then twist and place it on top.
6. Repeat the process with a lemon twist, placing it beside the orange.
Cooking Time: None (just stir and serve!)
Empress Gin Collins with Cucumber and Mint
This Empress Gin Collins recipe combines the crisp flavors of cucumber, mint, and lime with the smoothness of gin, perfect for a warm summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Empress Gin
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 4 oz tonic water
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Ice cubes
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint leaves and cucumber slices with a muddler or spoon to release their flavors.
2. Add the Empress Gin, lime juice, and ice cubes to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with ice.
5. Top with tonic water and garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Empress Gin Bramble with Blackberry Liqueur
A twist on the classic Bramble cocktail, this recipe combines Empress Gin’s floral and herbal notes with sweet blackberry liqueur and tangy lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Empress Gin
– 1/2 oz Blackberry Liqueur (such as Chambord)
– 1/2 oz Freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz Simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of sparkling water
– Lemon twist or blackberry, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add Empress Gin, Blackberry Liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of sparkling water.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or blackberry.
Cooking Time: None
Empress Gin Spritz with Prosecco and Grapefruit
Experience the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors with this refreshing Empress Gin Spritz, combining the crispness of Prosecco and the zing of grapefruit.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Empress Gin
– 4 oz Prosecco
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Slice of grapefruit, for garnish
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Fill a wine glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Empress Gin and Prosecco.
3. Add the freshly squeezed grapefruit juice and simple syrup.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Empress Gin French 75 with Champagne and Lemon
This elegant cocktail combines the crisp, citrusy flavors of Empress Gin with the effervescence of Champagne and a squeeze of lemon. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for sophistication.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Empress Gin
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 oz Champagne
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the Empress Gin and lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a champagne flute or coupe glass.
5. Top the cocktail off with Champagne.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail!
Empress Gin Gimlet with Lime and Simple Syrup
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic gin gimlet, featuring Empress Gin, lime, and a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Empress Gin
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the Empress Gin, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for approximately 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None (cocktail preparation only)
Enjoy your Empress Gin Gimlet with Lime and Simple Syrup!
Empress Gin Mule with Ginger Beer and Lime
This refreshing twist on the classic Moscow Mule combines the smooth, botanical flavors of Empress Gin with spicy ginger beer and a squeeze of lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Empress Gin
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Juice of 1 lime (about 1/2 oz)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Empress Gin and ginger beer.
3. Squeeze in the lime juice.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Empress Gin Aviation with Crème de Violette
Elevate your cocktail game with this refined and elegant twist on the classic Aviation. This recipe combines the smooth, floral notes of Empress Gin with the sweet, violet flavors of Crème de Violette.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Empress Gin
– 1/2 oz Maraschino Liqueur
– 1/2 oz Crème de Violette
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Dash of simple syrup (optional)
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add Empress Gin, Maraschino Liqueur, Crème de Violette, and lemon juice.
3. Shake gently to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. If desired, add a dash of simple syrup for balance (optional).
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Empress Gin Rickey with Lime and Soda
Elevate your classic Gin Rickey by adding a squeeze of lime juice and a splash of soda water. This revitalizing cocktail is perfect for warm weather or any occasion when you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Empress Gin
– Juice of 1 lime (about 1/2 oz)
– 4 oz soda water
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Empress Gin and add the freshly squeezed lime juice.
3. Top with soda water and stir gently to combine.
4. Garnish with a lime wheel and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail!
Enjoy your refreshing Empress Gin Rickey with Lime and Soda!
Empress Gin Paloma with Grapefruit Soda
This modern take on the classic Paloma cocktail combines Empress Gin’s subtle botanicals with the tangy sweetness of grapefruit soda, perfect for warm weather sipping.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 oz Empress Gin
– 4 oz grapefruit soda
– Juice of 1 lime (about 0.5 oz)
– Slice of grapefruit, for garnish
– Salt, for rimming glass (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with salt, if desired.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add Empress Gin and lime juice to the shaker.
4. Shake gently to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
6. Top with grapefruit soda.
7. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in minutes.
Empress Gin Sangria with Seasonal Fruits
Elevate your gatherings with this refreshing and fruity twist on the classic sangria recipe, featuring Empress Gin and seasonal fruits.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of Empress Gin (750ml)
– 1 cup of red wine
– 1 cup of mixed seasonal fruits (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, or peaches)
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup of orange liqueur (optional)
– Soda water
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the Empress Gin, red wine, and mixed seasonal fruits.
2. Add the granulated sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. If desired, add the orange liqueur and stir to combine.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, top with soda water and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None
Empress Gin Smash with Basil and Strawberries
Experience the sweet and savory combination of Empress gin, fresh basil, and juicy strawberries in this refreshing summer cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Empress Gin
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 2 cups strawberry puree (or 4-6 sliced strawberries)
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– Ice
– Club soda, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine Empress Gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add strawberry puree or sliced strawberries to the shaker.
3. Muddle the mixture with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release the strawberry’s natural sweetness.
4. Add fresh basil leaves to the shaker and muddle gently to combine.
5. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
6. Strain the cocktail into a chilled glass filled with ice.
7. Top with club soda and garnish with additional basil leaves or sliced strawberries, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (including muddling)
Empress Gin Hot Toddy with Honey and Lemon
Warm up on a chilly day with this soothing and flavorful hot toddy recipe, featuring Empress Gin, honey, and lemon. This sweet and citrusy drink is perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces Empress Gin
– 3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 6 oz hot water
– Lemon slice or wedge, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mug, combine Empress Gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup.
2. Add hot water to the mixture, stirring gently to dissolve the honey and gin.
3. Stir well to combine.
4. Garnish with a lemon slice or wedge.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just warm up the ingredients!)
Empress Gin Punch with Pineapple and Coconut
This refreshing cocktail combines the smoothness of Empress Gin with the sweetness of pineapple and the creaminess of coconut, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Empress Gin
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– Splash of club soda
– Pineapple wedges and toasted coconut flakes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the Empress Gin, lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake until chilled, about 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain into a Collins glass filled with ice.
5. Pour in the pineapple juice and coconut cream.
6. Top with a splash of club soda.
7. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and toasted coconut flakes.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve immediately.
Empress Gin Sazerac with Absinthe Rinse
The Sazerac is a timeless New Orleans classic, and this Empress Gin version adds a touch of elegance. The addition of an Absinthe rinse takes it to the next level.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Empress Gin
– 1/2 oz Simple Syrup
– 3 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
– 1/2 teaspoon sugar
– Lemon twist, for garnish
– Absinthe (for rinse)
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine Empress Gin, simple syrup, and Peychaud’s Bitters. Shake until well-combined.
3. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
4. Place a sugar cube on the rim of the glass and crush it slightly to release its essence.
5. Rinse the rim with a small amount of Absinthe.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (this is a cocktail, after all!)
Empress Gin Espresso Martini with Cold Brew
Elevate your cocktail game with this sophisticated blend of Empress Gin, cold brew coffee, and rich espresso. Perfect for those who crave a bold and refreshing drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Empress Gin
– 1 oz cold brew coffee
– 0.5 oz espresso
– 0.5 oz sugar syrup (1:1 sugar and water)
– 0.25 oz heavy cream
– Dash of vanilla extract
– Ice
– Coffee beans or grinds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add Empress Gin, cold brew coffee, espresso, sugar syrup, and heavy cream.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Add a dash of vanilla extract for added depth.
6. Garnish with coffee beans or grinds.
Cooking Time: None, just shake and serve!
Summary
Discover a world of sophisticated cocktail creations with these 20 exquisite Empress Gin recipes. From classic gin and tonics to innovative fizzes, martinis, and sours, this collection has something for every palate. Try your hand at making a Lavender Garnish or Elderflower Syrup-infused Fizz, or get adventurous with a Butterfly Pea Flower Infusion Martini. Whether you’re in the mood for something citrusy, herbal, or fruity, Empress Gin’s versatility shines through in these mouthwatering concoctions. Raise your glass to a night of elegance and indulgence!