When it comes to the vibrant purple hue of Victoria gin, there is a fascinating story behind it. The distinctive color actually comes from a unique ingredient called butterfly pea blossom, which is carefully chosen and infused into the gin during the distillation process.
Butterfly pea blossom, also known as Clitoria ternatea, is a tropical flower native to Southeast Asia. It is widely recognized for its stunning deep blue petals, which contain a natural pigment called anthocyanin. Anthocyanin is responsible for the intense blue color of the petals, but what makes it even more intriguing is its ability to change color depending on the pH of its surroundings.
Distillers of Victoria gin have cleverly harnessed the natural color-changing properties of butterfly pea blossom to create a beautiful violet hue in their gin. By infusing the gin with the petals of the flower, the anthocyanin pigments are released, resulting in a deep purple color.
But why would distillers choose butterfly pea blossom as an ingredient in their gin? The answer lies in the desire to create a gin that offers a unique flavor profile, one that goes beyond the traditional citrus-forward notes commonly found in gin. The earthy and floral characteristics of butterfly pea blossom add depth and complexity to the spirit, making Victoria gin stand out from the crowd.
The infusion of butterfly pea blossom imparts a delicate floral aroma to the gin, reminiscent of fresh flowers in bloom. This aromatic quality adds an extra layer of sensory pleasure to the drinking experience, enticing the senses and elevating the enjoyment of the gin.
In terms of taste, the butterfly pea blossom brings a subtle earthiness to the gin, which beautifully complements the traditional botanicals used in gin production. The earthy notes help to balance the citrus-forward flavors commonly found in gin, creating a harmonious and well-rounded flavor profile.
Now, you might be wondering how the color-changing properties of butterfly pea blossom come into play. When butterfly pea blossom is exposed to acidic ingredients or mixers, such as citrus juices or tonic water, the pH of the liquid shifts, causing the vibrant purple color to transform into a vivid shade of pink or magenta. This mesmerizing color transformation adds an element of surprise and visual appeal to cocktails made with Victoria gin.
It's worth noting that the butterfly pea blossom is not only used for its color-changing abilities but also for its potential health benefits. The flower is rich in antioxidants and has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its various therapeutic properties.
The beautiful purple hue of Victoria gin comes from the infusion of butterfly pea blossom, a tropical flower with natural color-changing properties. This unique ingredient not only adds visual appeal to the gin but also contributes to its flavor profile, bringing a delicate floral aroma and earthy notes. So, the next time you sip on a glass of Victoria gin, take a moment to appreciate the artistry and innovation behind its captivating color.