Empress 1908 Gin’s New ‘Refreshing’ Flavored Release Was Inspired by Afternoon Tea

Empress Gin unveiled its latest flavored edition to the Canadian brand’s portfolio. (Photo: Empress Gin/Kyla Zanardi)

Empress Gin shared the brand’s latest flavored release: Empress 1908 Cucumber Lemon Gin. The brand says it took inspiration for its latest release from afternoon tea.

Empress 1908 Cucumber Gin hosts a suggested retail price of $39.99 and an ABV of 42.5%.

“We always strive to create balanced, high-quality blends that inspire creativity and offer inviting flavors,” Milestone Brands CEO and Chairman Eric Dopkins said in a news release. “Following the overwhelmingly positive reception of our Elderflower Rose Gin last year, we leveraged our Master Distillers’ extensive botanical expertise to introduce our next innovative flavor: Cucumber Lemon. We are excited to see Empress Cucumber Lemon Gin support Empress Gin’s mission of creating the most distinctive cocktails.”

The Canadian brand claims eight botanicals were used in crafting the flavored gin. Empress 1908 Gin chose to use juniper berries, lemon, jasmine and star anise in addition to cucumber and lemon zest. The brand claims the spice of cardamom and jasmine play quite well with the cucumber and lemon zest.

In September, Empress brought its elderflower and rose gin to the United States. The gin was meant to be a liquid celebration of Victoria, British Columbia. The city is nicknamed “The City of Gardens,” and Empress claims that flowers constantly bloom in the area. The gin had a distinctive red hue, which was derived from red rose petals and black carrots, according to the brand.

Yet, perhaps the most iconic expression within the Empress portfolio is Empress Indigo Gin, which took the marketplace by storm with its stunningly vibrant indigo hue.

The bright indigo color comes from butterfly pea blossom, and if curious drinkers add a splash of lemon to a libation with Empress Indigo, they can watch it turn purple. Empress declared the gin was one of the “fastest-growing” gins in the United States.

The brand recommends enjoying its refreshing new flavor in a Cucumber & Tonic cocktail, with a cucumber slice and lemon wheel garnish to enhance its flavor profile.

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