As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can tell you that Indigo is not a specific type of liquor. In fact, Indigo is not typically associated with the world of spirits or alcoholic beverages. Indigo is a deep blue color that is often used to dye fabrics, and it is derived from the plant Indigofera tinctoria. While there are many different types of liquors and spirits available, Indigo is not one of them.
However, there is a gin called Empress 1908 Gin that is often associated with the color indigo. Empress 1908 Gin is a handcrafted spirit created by Victoria Distillers in British Columbia, Canada. It takes its inspiration from the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria.
Empress 1908 Gin is known for its vibrant indigo hue, which is derived from the infusion of butterfly pea blossom. This unique flower imparts a natural blue color to the gin, and when mixed with citrus or tonic, it can change shades to a lovely purple or pink. The visual transformation is quite mesmerizing and adds a touch of elegance to cocktails.
The gin itself is made using a traditional copper-pot still method, which is often associated with producing high-quality spirits. The small batch production ensures attention to detail and allows for a more hands-on approach in crafting the final product.
Empress 1908 Gin features a botanical blend that includes juniper, rose, coriander seed, grapefruit peel, ginger root, and cinnamon bark. These ingredients contribute to a complex and aromatic flavor profile, with the juniper providing the classic gin backbone.
When tasting Empress 1908 Gin, you can expect a well-balanced combination of floral, citrus, and spice notes. The gin has a smooth and velvety texture, making it enjoyable to drink on its own or in a variety of cocktails. It pairs well with citrus-based mixers such as tonic water or lemon juice, as the acidity can enhance the color-changing properties of the gin.
Personally, I have had the pleasure of trying Empress 1908 Gin in a few different cocktails, and I have always been impressed with its unique qualities. One of my favorite experiences was enjoying a classic gin and tonic made with Empress 1908 Gin on a sunny patio overlooking the ocean. The vibrant indigo color of the gin added an extra level of visual appeal to the drink, and the taste was refreshing and delightful.
While Indigo itself is not a specific type of liquor, Empress 1908 Gin is a gin that is often associated with the color indigo due to its infusion of butterfly pea blossom. This handcrafted gin offers a unique visual experience and a complex flavor profile, making it a standout choice for gin enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike.