Empress 1908 is the famous indigo-blue gin from Victoria Distillers in British Columbia, and it is poured at Grappa in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood. We love this one for its quiet theatre — a deep violet spirit that blushes to soft pink when citrus is added, lending elegance and a touch of wonder to the glass.

About the Distillery

Empress 1908 is crafted by Victoria Distillers, one of British Columbia’s pioneering craft houses, and takes its name from the storied Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria. Made in small batches in copper-pot stills, the gin grew from a collaboration with the hotel, drawing on its celebrated afternoon tea tradition. Its signature indigo color is entirely natural, with no artificial coloring.

Botanicals & Style

The recipe rests on eight signature botanicals: juniper, the Fairmont Empress’s own blend of tea, coriander seed, grapefruit peel, rose, ginger root, cinnamon bark, and the striking butterfly pea blossom that gives the gin its deep indigo hue. The tea and rose lend a delicate, perfumed softness, while ginger and cinnamon add gentle warmth. It is a smooth, floral and subtly spiced gin — refined and contemporary rather than sharply juniper-driven. A squeeze of citrus shifts the color from indigo toward lavender and pink.

Tasting Notes

Expect a soft, floral nose of rose, citrus peel and warm tea. The palate is smooth and gently spiced, with juniper, grapefruit and a whisper of ginger and cinnamon. The finish is delicate, perfumed and clean.

What to Pair It With

Its floral, citrus-touched character is graceful beside our Fresh Oysters and brightens our Heirloom Tomatoes & Burrata. It also pairs beautifully with the Mediterranean Salad. Explore the full dine-in menu to round out your evening.

How It’s Served at Grappa

Empress 1908 is poured neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail at $13.

FAQ

Where is it from?

It is made by Victoria Distillers in British Columbia, Canada, and named for Victoria’s Fairmont Empress Hotel.

What does it taste like?

It offers soft rose, citrus and warm tea, with a smooth palate of juniper, grapefruit and gentle ginger and cinnamon spice.

Is it juniper-forward?

Juniper is present, but Empress 1908 leans floral and softly spiced, with tea, rose and citrus shaping its refined character.

When you’re ready, book a table, explore the cocktail & spirits list, and browse the dine-in menu.