📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Gin
Alcohol 20%
Calories 163 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0.1g
Carbohydrates 7.4g
Prep time 5 minutes
Imagine you want to make the perfect Empress 75 or just revel in the delight of sipping on a refreshing cocktail. Today, we’ll explore the Empress 75 cocktail, touching on its rich history, unique flavor profile, ideal presentation, and more. Let’s embark on this flavorful journey together and uncover the essence of this exquisite cocktail. ⬇️
History
The Empress 75 is a modern twist on the classic French 75, born out of the desire to create something visually stunning and palate-pleasing. Its roots can be traced back to the vibrant cocktail culture of Canada, gaining popularity for its distinctive color and flavor. A symbol of elegance and refinement, this cocktail has quickly made its mark in the world of mixology.
- The name “Empress 75” pays homage to the Empress Hotel in Victoria, British Columbia, where its signature gin is sourced.
- Its vivid purple hue is naturally derived from butterfly pea blossom infused gin, a nod to both tradition and innovation.
- The cocktail was designed to capture the spirit of its royal namesake, offering an experience that’s both luxurious and inviting.
The taste of a Empress 75?
The Empress 75 is a harmonious blend of tart and sweet, with a floral undertone that makes it utterly refreshing. Its flavors dance on the palate, offering a sip that’s both invigorating and smooth, a true testament to its carefully chosen ingredients.
I personally love drinking Empress 75s because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.
Interesting facts about Empress 75
- The Empress 75’s color can change from a deep indigo to a soft pink with the addition of citrus, making each drink a visual spectacle.
- This cocktail has become a favorite for special occasions, embodying a sense of celebration and sophistication.
- Despite its royal connotations, the Empress 75 is beloved for its approachability, appealing to both cocktail aficionados and novices alike.
Ingredients 📃
- Empress 1908 Gin: 1.5 oz (45ml)
- Lemon Juice: 0.75 oz (22ml)
- Simple Syrup: 0.5 oz (15ml)
- Sparkling Wine: 2 oz (60ml)
- Ice Cubes
A champagne flute is the best glass to use when serving an Empress 75. Its tall, slender shape enhances the visual appeal, showcasing the cocktail’s mesmerizing color transition. An alternative could be a coupe glass, offering a vintage feel that complements the drink’s elegance.
Recipe. How to make Empress 75 🍹
- Chill your champagne flute in advance.
- Combine Empress 1908 Gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice.
- Shake well and strain into the chilled flute.
- Top with sparkling wine and gently stir to combine.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon or a few edible flowers for an elegant finish.
The Empress 75, while a treat for the senses, does contain sugar and calories that one should be mindful of. Opting for a natural sweetener, like honey or agave, can offer a healthier twist without compromising the drink’s integrity. The gin’s botanicals also provide a unique blend of herbal benefits, though moderation is key to enjoying its allure responsibly.
Food Pairings
Certain foods can elevate the Empress 75’s tasting experience by complementing its unique flavor profile. Here are some pairings that harmonize beautifully with the cocktail’s characteristics.
Seafood
The cocktail’s crispness pairs marvelously with seafood, especially dishes like seared scallops or shrimp cocktail, enhancing the delicate flavors with its acidity and floral notes.
Charcuterie
A selection of fine cheeses and cured meats can balance the Empress 75’s sweetness and floral undertones, creating a delightful contrast.
Fruit-Based Desserts
The subtle tartness of the Empress 75 complements sweet and fruity desserts, such as lemon tarts or berry pavlovas, making for a refreshing end to a meal.
I enjoy the taste of Empress 75s—the cool, floral, and citrusy notes make it a perfect drink for unwinding after a long week.
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Bartender Advice
- Balance is key; ensure the tartness of the lemon juice complements the sweetness of the syrup and gin.
- Quality sparkling wine makes a difference; choose one that elevates the drink, not just any will do.
- Experiment with garnishes; edible flowers or a different citrus twist can add a new dimension to the cocktail.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Empress 75, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Empress 75
- Empress 1908 Gin: Can be substituted with another floral gin for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Lemon Juice: Try lime juice for a zestier kick.
- Simple Syrup: Agave syrup or honey can be used for a healthier twist.
Empress 75 Variations
Royal Blush
- Ingredients: Add a splash of cranberry juice for a fruity twist.
- Recipe: Follow the original recipe, including the cranberry juice with the gin and lemon juice.
Empress Spritz
- Ingredients: Substitute sparkling wine with Aperol and soda water.
- Recipe: Mix gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, Aperol, and top with soda water.
Butterfly Effect
- Ingredients: Incorporate elderflower liqueur and a dash of blue curaçao.
- Recipe: Blend with the original ingredients and garnish with a lemon spiral.
To whip up a non-alcoholic version of the Empress 75, simply replace the gin with a floral non-alcoholic spirit and the sparkling wine with non-alcoholic sparkling grape juice. Mix with lemon juice and simple syrup for a refreshing mocktail that everyone can enjoy.
Q&A
Can I make the Empress 75 ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the gin, lemon juice, and syrup ahead of time, but add the sparkling wine just before serving to preserve the fizz.
What makes Empress 75’s color change?
The pH change caused by adding citrus to the butterfly pea blossom-infused gin alters the color from blue to purple or pink.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of this cocktail?
Absolutely, replacing alcoholic components with non-alcoholic alternatives like floral non-alcoholic spirits and sparkling grape juice creates a delightful mocktail.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the Empress 75?
Play with the simple syrup quantity or substitute it with natural sweeteners like honey, adjusting to taste.
What are the best occasions for serving an Empress 75?
Its elegant appearance and refreshing taste make it perfect for celebrations, special occasions, or as a sophisticated summer sipper.
Can I use a different type of gin?
Yes, while Empress 1908 Gin gives the cocktail its signature color, other floral gins can offer a different but equally delightful taste profile.