Absolutely! Empress Indigo Gin is a fantastic choice for making a Negroni. Its unique botanical blend and vibrant indigo hue add a delightful twist to this classic cocktail.
When it comes to making a Negroni with Empress Gin, there are a few adjustments you can make to tailor the recipe to the gin's flavor profile. The traditional Negroni recipe calls for equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari, but we can switch things up a bit to enhance the Empress Gin experience.
Instead of using sweet vermouth, I would suggest trying a blanc vermouth. Blanc vermouth is slightly drier and has a lighter, more delicate flavor compared to sweet vermouth. This will allow the distinct botanicals of Empress Gin to shine through without overpowering them with sweetness.
Next, let's substitute the Campari with a bitter Italian Amaro. Amaro is a bitter herbal liqueur that adds depth and complexity to cocktails. Choose an Amaro that complements the floral and citrus notes of Empress Gin. A good choice could be Aperol, which has a similar bitter profile with hints of orange and rhubarb.
To further enhance the citrus flavors, a few dashes of grapefruit bitters would work wonders. Grapefruit bitters add a bright, zesty kick that pairs beautifully with Empress Gin's botanicals.
Now, let's put it all together. In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine 1 ounce Empress Indigo Gin, 1 ounce blanc vermouth, 1 ounce Amaro, and a few dashes of grapefruit bitters. Stir gently to chill and dilute the cocktail, then strain into a chilled rocks glass over a large ice cube.
Garnish your Empress Gin Negroni with a twist of grapefruit peel or a sprig of fresh rosemary for an added aromatic touch. The result is a Negroni with a twist, showcasing the botanical flavors and indigo hue of Empress Gin while still maintaining the bitter and balanced characteristics of the classic cocktail.
I hope this inspires you to try making a Negroni with Empress Indigo Gin. Cheers to creative cocktails and exploring new flavor combinations!