Empress 1908: A Color-Changing Gin Inspired by Victoria’s Iconic Tea Culture

Intro

Empress 1908 is the brainchild of Victoria Distillers in British Columbia, where the art of distillation meets the elegance of a classic afternoon tea. Inspired by the famed Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria - renowned for its luxurious tea service - this gin fuses tradition with innovation, offering a one-of-a-kind drinking experience. Its name references the hotel’s grand history, while “1908” nods to the year that the Empress Hotel officially opened, paying homage to a Canadian icon that has charmed visitors for over a century.

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A Visual Spectacle: Color-Changing Alchemy

The most striking feature of Empress 1908 is its ability to transform from a deep indigo hue to soft pinks and purples upon mixing with acidic ingredients like tonic, lemon, or lime. This alchemical shift comes from butterfly pea blossoms, a botanical prized for its vibrant color-changing properties. When combined with the gin’s other premium ingredients, the butterfly pea blossoms provide both visual intrigue and a subtle, floral undertone - ensuring the gin is as captivating on the palate as it is to the eye.

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Premium Botanicals and Local Roots

Crafted in small batches, Empress 1908 draws on the Empress Hotel’s own signature black tea blend as a key botanical, imparting subtle notes of citrus and warm spice. Other locally and globally sourced botanicals include juniper, grapefruit peel, ginger, coriander, cinnamon, and rose petals. The fresh, pristine water of British Columbia serves as the base, contributing to the gin’s smooth mouthfeel. Every step, from maceration to distillation, is carried out with a focus on preserving each ingredient’s essential oils and aromatic characteristics.

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A Celebration of Craft and History

Empress 1908 bridges the gap between old-world sophistication and contemporary taste. The use of the Empress Hotel’s tea acknowledges the rich heritage of Victoria’s high-tea culture, while the color-changing butterfly pea blossoms capture the spirit of modern mixology. This delicate balance—honoring tradition while embracing innovation - has helped position Empress 1908 as more than just another gin; it’s a sensory experience rooted in Canadian history.

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Awards and Recognition

Since its debut, Empress 1908 has garnered attention from bartenders, home mixologists, and gin enthusiasts around the globe. Its ability to redefine the visual appeal of cocktails has led to a surge in social media popularity, with striking images of purple-and-pink drinks shared widely. The quality of Empress 1908 has also been recognized through industry accolades and positive reviews from critics who praise its smooth texture, balanced flavor profile, and the creative potential it brings to classic gin-based recipes.

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Sustainability and Community Engagement

Victoria Distillers operates with a mindful approach to sustainability, incorporating local resources whenever possible and minimizing waste throughout production. The brand frequently partners with local establishments, mixologists, and event organizers to highlight the versatility of Empress 1908, often featuring seasonal cocktails that celebrate Canadian ingredients. This community-driven ethos not only bolsters the brand’s local reputation but also exemplifies a broader commitment to ethical and eco-conscious operations.

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The Future of Empress 1908

Looking ahead, Empress 1908 remains poised to expand its presence in upscale bars, craft cocktail lounges, and discerning households worldwide. The rising trend of experiential dining experiences, where visuals and storytelling are part of the beverage journey, places this color-changing gin in a prime position to continue captivating audiences. Future collaborations and limited-edition releases may further explore the boundaries of flavor combinations and visual artistry, ensuring that Empress 1908 remains at the forefront of gin innovation.