Paul Kushner
The Empress Mango Spritz is a colorful and refreshing cocktail that blends tropical fruit with the crisp character of gin. Empress 1908 Gin provides a striking indigo hue along with smooth botanical notes, while ripe mango adds natural sweetness and a silky texture that gives the drink body. A touch of ginger saffron syrup brings gentle spice and warmth, balanced by the brightness of fresh lemon juice. Topped with soda water, the spritz becomes light, fizzy, and easy to enjoy. Served over ice and garnished with mango slices or citrus, it’s perfect for summer parties, brunches, or relaxed evenings.
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Tasting Notes
The Empress Mango Spritz is bright and refreshing, with a fruity kick from ripe mango and a hint of citrus from fresh lemon juice. The ginger saffron syrup adds a warm, slightly spicy edge without overpowering the drink. The soda water keeps things light and bubbly, while the Empress Gin adds its own herbal and floral depth. As the layers mix, the flavor grows more balanced and smooth. It’s a drink that tastes as good as it looks clean, crisp, and full of contrast between the fruit, spice, and botanicals.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a few simple tools to make this drink: a shaker for muddling and mixing, a muddler or spoon to break down the mango, and a bar spoon to help layer the gin over the top. A strainer is optional if you want to keep the mango bits out of the glass. Serve it in a tall glass or stemmed goblet to show off the color. Make sure you have ice and a sharp knife to cut the lemon slice for garnish. That’s it, simple tools for a great-looking cocktail.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Empress Gin
- ½ cup mango
- 0.75 oz ginger saffron syrup
- 0.75 oz lemon juice
- Soda water, to top
- Lemon slice, for garnish
Instructions
- In a shaker, muddle the chopped mango with lemon juice and ginger saffron syrup until the mango is juicy and broken down.
- Pour the mixture into your glass.
- Add ice, then top with soda water.
- Gently pour the Empress Gin over the top to create a layered effect.
- Garnish with a lemon slice. Stir before sipping.
Pro Tips
- Use very ripe mango for the best flavor and texture
- Chill your glass ahead of time to keep the drink cold longer
- Pour the gin slowly over a spoon for a clean layered look
- Don’t skip the stir before drinking mixing improves the flavor
- If ginger saffron syrup isn’t available, sub with ginger syrup and a tiny pinch of saffron or turmeric
When to Serve
This Empress Mango Spritz works best in the warmer months or any time you want something light and refreshing. It’s a great pick for brunch, early evening gatherings, or summer events when you want something fruit-forward and not too strong. The Empress Mango Spritz also makes a good welcome drink for guests it’s simple to prepare, looks impressive in the glass, and tastes easy-going and fun without being overly sweet or heavy.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Empress 1908 Gin – for that signature color and botanical flavor
- Fever-Tree Soda Water – crisp and not too salty
- Use fresh Ataulfo or Kent mangoes – smooth texture and bright flavor
- Homemade ginger saffron syrup – or try Liber & Co. Fiery Ginger Syrup with a saffron pinch
- San Pellegrino – a solid soda water choice if you like subtle minerality
Similar Cocktails
- Limoncello Gin Fizz
- Apricot Honey Gin Sour
- Strawberry Rose Bramble
- Spicy Sake Mango Punch
- Aperol Gin Martini
Ingredients
- 2 oz Empress Gin
- ½ cup mango
- 0.75 oz ginger saffron syrup
- 0.75 oz lemon juice
- Soda water to top
- Lemon slice for garnish
Instructions
- In a shaker, muddle the chopped mango with lemon juice and ginger saffron syrup until the mango is juicy and broken down.
- Pour the mixture into your glass.
- Add ice, then top with soda water.
- Gently pour the Empress Gin over the top to create a layered effect.
- Garnish with a lemon slice. Stir before sipping.
Notes
- Use very ripe mango for the sweetest flavor.
- To make your own ginger saffron syrup, simmer fresh ginger slices and a pinch of saffron in equal parts sugar and water. Strain and cool.
- For extra chill, freeze your glass before building the drink.
