Purple Gin & Tonic

The Purple Gin & Tonic is a simple but eye-catching spin on the classic gin and tonic. Its vibrant color usually comes from butterfly pea flower or a colored gin like Empress 1908, which naturally shifts hue when mixed with citrus. Paired with tonic water and a squeeze of lime, the result is crisp, floral, and slightly bitter with just the right amount of fizz. It’s a refreshing drink that looks fancy but is easy to make. Whether you’re hosting friends or just want something fun in your glass, the Purple Gin & Tonic brings a cool twist without the fuss.

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Tasting Notes

The Purple Gin & Tonic is a refreshing classic with a botanical twist and mesmerizing color. Empress 1908 Gin, infused with butterfly pea flower, brings a vivid indigo hue and delicate floral notes. When combined with tonic water, the drink transforms into a stunning lavender-pink gradient thanks to its pH-reactive botanicals. Crisp, dry, and slightly citrusy, this cocktail is light yet complex. Garnished with fresh mint, it’s cool and fragrant with a beautiful aromatic finish. It’s a drink that tastes as elegant as it looks—clean, herbaceous, and visually enchanting.

Equipment and Glassware

This cocktail is effortless to prepare and doesn’t require a shaker or strainer. A jigger helps measure the gin precisely, while a bar spoon is useful for gently layering or stirring. Use a balloon gin glass or a highball glass to showcase the color transformation and enhance the botanical aromas. A mint sprig can be lightly slapped to release its scent before garnishing, and a few ice cubes help keep the drink crisp and effervescent throughout.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Empress 1908 Gin
• 4 oz tonic water
• Mint leaves, for garnish

Instructions

• Build: Fill a wine glass with ice.
• Pour: Add the Empress gin over the ice.
• Top: Slowly pour in the tonic water to preserve the color separation, if desired.
• Stir: Gently stir once for a marbled effect or mix fully for uniform color.
• Garnish: Add a few fresh mint leaves for a cooling aromatic finish.

Pro Tips

• Use a tonic water with neutral or citrus-forward notes (like Fever-Tree, Q Tonic, or East Imperial) to let the Empress Gin shine.
• Pour tonic slowly over a spoon or down the side of the glass to maintain a layered effect.
• Garnish with lightly slapped mint or try a lemon twist for added citrus aroma.
• For more flair, freeze edible flowers or mint leaves into your ice cubes.
• Want extra zing? Add a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice—just be ready for a brighter color shift.

When to Serve

The Purple Gin & Tonic is perfect for cocktail hour, brunches, spring weddings, or lavender-themed events. Its photogenic quality makes it ideal for Instagram-worthy moments, while its balanced taste appeals to gin lovers and casual drinkers alike. Serve at sunset soirees, Mother’s Day, bridal showers, or anytime you want a cocktail that’s simple yet elegant, fresh yet eye-catching.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Empress 1908 Gin is the star of the show here, known for its vivid hue and botanicals like butterfly pea flower, juniper, grapefruit peel, and ginger. Pair it with high-quality tonic water like Fever-Tree Indian, Q Spectacular Tonic, or Schweppes Premium for balanced flavor and vibrant color transformation. For garnish, use organic mint or try an edible flower like violet or pansy for an upscale finish.

Similar Cocktails

• Cherry Elderflower Smash
• Blood Orange Mezcal Cocktail
• Lavender Gin & Tonic
• Pretty in Pink
• Limoncello Lavender Cocktail