Paul Kushner
The Empress Gimlet Colada is a dazzling fusion of tropical indulgence and classic sophistication, designed to captivate both the eyes and the palate. Empress 1908 Indigo Gin, with its stunning natural hue and botanical richness, serves as the vibrant base, while fresh lime juice and simple syrup create the crisp, refreshing core of a traditional gimlet. What sets this cocktail apart is the luscious pineapple and coconut foam, adding a creamy, tropical flair that perfectly balances the gin’s floral notes. Topped with a pinch of toasted coconut and a bright lemon wheel, the Empress Gimlet Colada is a luxurious, show-stopping sip perfect for upscale gatherings or a sunny afternoon treat. Inspired by martins.cocktails.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
Tasting Notes
The Empress Gimlet Colada is a dazzling tropical twist on the classic gimlet, infused with the vibrant botanicals of Empress 1908 Indigo Gin. Fresh lime juice adds a sharp citrus tang, while simple syrup rounds out the tartness with subtle sweetness. A crown of pineapple and coconut foam transforms this into a creamy, island-inspired delight, offering a silky contrast to the crisp gin base. Finished with a sprinkle of toasted coconut and a bright lemon wheel, every sip is refreshing, exotic, and elegantly colorful—perfect for those who love their cocktails equal parts tropical and sophisticated.
Equipment and Glassware
Creating this tropical gimlet requires a few key tools. Use a jigger for precise measurements, and a cocktail shaker to mix and chill the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup. A fine mesh strainer ensures a silky pour free of ice shards. A milk frother or cream whipper can help craft the pineapple-coconut foam for a luxurious topping. Serve the drink in a chilled coupe glass or Nick and Nora glass to highlight the foam layer and beautiful indigo hue. A microplane can be used to finely grate toasted coconut for the perfect final garnish.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Empress 1908 Indigo Gin
- 1 oz lime juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Pineapple & coconut foam
- Pinch of toasted coconut (for garnish)
- Lemon wheel (for garnish)
Instructions
- Shake: Add Empress Indigo Gin, lime juice, and simple syrup to a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.
- Double Strain: Strain the cocktail through a fine mesh strainer into a chilled coupe glass.
- Top: Spoon or pipe a layer of pineapple and coconut foam over the top of the drink.
- Garnish: Sprinkle a pinch of toasted coconut over the foam and add a lemon wheel for a bright, tropical finish.
Pro Tips
- Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the brightest, most authentic citrus flavor.
- Shake vigorously to achieve a perfectly chilled and diluted base.
- Craft your foam by blending pineapple juice and coconut cream using a milk frother or cream whipper with nitrous oxide for best texture.
- Lightly toast shredded coconut until golden for a fragrant, flavorful garnish.
- Keep the glass chilled beforehand to maintain the beautiful contrast between the vibrant indigo gin and creamy foam.
- For a dazzling presentation, add a tiny pinch of edible glitter to the foam for a shimmering tropical effect.
When to Serve
The Empress Gimlet Colada is perfect for upscale brunches, tropical-themed soirées, summer cocktail parties, or chic evening gatherings. Its combination of refreshing citrus, botanical complexity, and creamy tropical flair makes it ideal for occasions that call for elegance with a playful twist. Serve it as a signature cocktail at weddings, rooftop events, or celebratory dinners when you want a drink that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Its color-changing beauty and rich textures make it a true conversation starter.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- For the gin, Empress 1908 Indigo Gin is essential to achieve the vibrant color and complex botanical profile.
- Use high-quality fresh lime juice and homemade simple syrup for the best balance.
- For the foam, combine fresh pineapple juice with rich coconut cream—brands like Coco Lopez or Savoy Coconut Cream create the perfect tropical texture.
- Toasted coconut from brands like Bob’s Red Mill ensures a natural, fragrant garnish.
- Fresh, organic lemons round out the drink’s beautiful, aromatic garnish options.
Similar Cocktails
Equipment
- Whisk or frother (for foam)
Ingredients
- 2 oz Empress 1908 Indigo Gin
- 1 oz lime juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Pineapple & coconut foam
- Pinch of toasted coconut for garnish
- Lemon wheel for garnish
Instructions
- Shake: Add Empress Indigo Gin, lime juice, and simple syrup to a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.
- Double Strain: Strain the cocktail through a fine mesh strainer into a chilled coupe glass.
- Top: Spoon or pipe a layer of pineapple and coconut foam over the top of the drink.
- Garnish: Sprinkle a pinch of toasted coconut over the foam and add a lemon wheel for a bright, tropical finish.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Chill your coupe glass beforehand to keep the drink crisp and refreshing.
- Lightly toast coconut flakes in a dry pan for a rich, nutty aroma.
- Use a frother to create a dense, fluffy foam for an even more dramatic presentation.
