Drink of the Week: Empress 1908 0.0 Indigo

I don’t typically participate in dry January, but I am a big believer in a balanced liquid diet in general—the more delicious, nonalcoholic options the better. Fortunately, the continued evolution of the NA category has also seen many popular distillers offer alcohol-free versions of their spirits, from NA aperitifs to spirit dupes. Falling into the latter category, Empress 1908 has just released a spirit-free interpretation of their popular Indigo Gin, the 0.0 Indigo.

The Empress 1908 0.0 Indigo is not exactly trying to replicate a gin. Rather, the zero-proof spirit pulls inspiration from the flavor profile of the vibrantly hued gin, itself inspired by the renowned tea program at the Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria, B.C. Produced at Canada’s Victoria Distillers, the 0.0 Indigo similarly leans on ingredients like zesty grapefruit, juniper, and the signature butterfly pea flower, which creates the striking violet color.

The delicate florals and citrus are well-balanced by bitter juniper and a subtle spiciness that lends the 0.0 Indigo enough oomph to stand up in a classic Gin & Tonic build. But the adaptable flavor profile makes for fun experimentation behind the bar, from a spirit-free Bee’s Knees to a low-ABV Martini, to see you through dry January and beyond. $34.99, empressgin.com