Lilac Gin Cocktail With Empress 1908

With lilac in bloom, I couldn’t help but make a lilac gin cocktail. But this is a special botanical cocktail made with a newly discovered indigo colored gin, called Empress 1908. With a splash of fresh lilac syrup and a bit of citrus, this botanical drink will definitely make it on your weekend menu. Garnish with some fresh lilac to inhale before taking the first sip of this purple beauty!

What's in a Name?

This lilac gin cocktail is called “Syringa Twist.” Here’s why! According to Greek mythology, Pan, the god of the forest falls in love with a nymph named Syringa (lilac’s botanical name) and chases her around the forest, until she escapes him and turns herself into the most aromatic flower- lilac!

A Little History on Empress 1908...

Empress1908 Gin is mystical with its illuminating purple color, due to the butterfly pea powder, but also has notes of juniper, coriander, rose, and ginger! The most magical event happens when you add citrus or tonic to it. The butterfly pea powder has a reaction with acid, and turns to a fucsia color. Empress 1908 is handcrafted in British Colombia, Canada and was inspired by the black tea served at the Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria.

Some Favorite Gin Drinks Made with Empress!

How To Make Lilac Syrup

4 cups fresh lilac, de-stemmed
2 cups raw cane sugar
2 cups water

Carefully shake any bugs off and de- stem the lilac. The fresher the flowers, the more fragrant the taste. In a sauce pan dissolve the sugar in the water. Take off heat and let cool for ten minutes. Fill a mason jar with the lilac and pour the sugar water over. Let stand for 24 hours for optimal fragrance. Strain and pour into a clean jar and keep refrigerated for up to three weeks.

There are endless possibilities with this magical Empress gin. Every beautifully colored cocktail needs some botanical ice cubes and a flowery garnish so don’t hold back! Enjoy!!