Empress 0.0 Indigo Gin
Empress 1908 0.0 Indigo is a non-alcoholic, gin-inspired spirit from Victoria, British Columbia, with bright grapefruit and lemon, subtle juniper, gentle spice and an earthy botanical note from butterfly pea blossom. That same flower gives Empress its striking natural indigo color, which shifts toward lavender and pink when mixed with citrus. The palate is lighter and softer than a traditional gin, making this one especially well suited to bright, refreshing cocktails where its citrus and botanical character can shine.
Why We Love It
The color may be what gets your attention, but Empress 0.0 is more than a pretty bottle. We like its softer approach to gin: less juniper-driven, more citrusy and floral, with a little spice underneath. And watching that deep indigo transform when you add citrus makes building a cocktail with it particularly fun.
How to Drink Empress 1908 0.0 Indigo
For an easy serve, pour 2 oz over plenty of ice, top with a crisp tonic and finish with a grapefruit slice. Keep the tonic on the lighter side so it doesn't overwhelm the more delicate botanical profile.
Cheeky & Dry Signature Serve — Indigo 75: 1½ oz Empress 1908 0.0 Indigo, ¾ oz fresh lemon juice, ¼ oz simple syrup, and 3 oz dry non-alcoholic sparkling wine. Shake the Empress, lemon and simple syrup with ice, strain into a coupe or flute, then top with sparkling wine. Garnish with a lemon twist and watch the indigo shift as the citrus hits the glass.
Pair it with: smoked salmon with crème fraîche, goat cheese tartlets, seared scallops with citrus, lemon-herb chicken, or a salty Parmesan gougère.
Tasting Notes
Nose: Bright grapefruit and lemon peel lead, with a soft floral lift from butterfly pea blossom and a gentle hint of juniper in the background.
Palate: Light and citrus-forward — softer than a classic gin, with a delicate spice mid-palate and an earthy botanical depth from the pea blossom.
Finish: Clean and refreshing, with lingering citrus and a subtle floral note. Watch the indigo color shift to lavender or pink as you add citrus — it's part of the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Empress 1908 0.0 Indigo truly non-alcoholic?
Yes. Empress 1908 0.0 Indigo contains 0.0% ABV, making it a fully non-alcoholic spirit.
Why does Empress 0.0 change color?
The color comes from butterfly pea blossom, a natural botanical that produces a deep indigo hue. When it comes into contact with citrus (which is acidic), it shifts toward lavender and pink — no artificial dyes involved.
What does Empress 1908 0.0 Indigo taste like?
It's lighter and more citrus-forward than a traditional gin — bright grapefruit and lemon up front, with subtle juniper, gentle spice, and an earthy floral note from the butterfly pea blossom.
Can I use Empress 0.0 as a gin substitute in cocktails?
Yes, though its softer, more floral profile works best in lighter, citrus-forward cocktails like G&Ts, French 75s, and spritzes rather than spirit-forward drinks like a Negroni.
Where is Empress 1908 made?
Empress 1908 is made in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, and is inspired by the botanicals served at the historic Fairmont Empress Hotel.
Does Cheeky & Dry ship Empress 0.0 Indigo nationwide?
Yes — we ship across the US. Non-alcoholic spirits ship without the restrictions that apply to alcoholic beverages.
How should I store Empress 1908 0.0 Indigo?
Store in a cool, dark place to preserve the natural color. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 4–6 weeks for best flavor and color vibrancy.
