Global-Inspired Summer Gin Cocktails to Sip Like a Local

Sometimes a destination becomes inseparable from a memorable drink — sipping an Aperol Spritz on the Italian coast or a crisp gin and tonic in London can instantly bring a place back to life. Cocktails have a remarkable way of capturing the spirit of a city, and these gin-based recipes channel global destinations into summer-ready drinks.

Below are gin cocktails inspired by iconic locales, each featuring Empress 1908 Gin to create travel-forward flavors and striking presentation.

Saint-Tropez, France: Empress 75

This refined twist on the classic French 75 is effervescent and elegant, reflecting Saint-Tropez’s laid-back glamour and sunlit beach life.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Empress 1908 Indigo Gin
• 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
• 0.5 oz simple syrup
• Sparkling wine
• Lemon twist for garnish

Method: Shake gin, lemon juice and simple syrup with ice. Fine strain into a chilled flute, top with sparkling wine and finish with a lemon twist.

Tokyo, Japan: Jasmine Sour

Delicate and refined, the Jasmine Sour evokes Tokyo’s appreciation for subtle, tea-inspired flavors and balanced textures.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Empress 1908 Cucumber Lemon Gin
• 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
• 0.75 oz jasmine syrup
• Egg white (optional for texture)
• Dried jasmine blossoms for garnish

Method: Add all ingredients to a shaker and dry shake (no ice) to emulsify the egg white. Add ice, shake again to chill, then double strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with dried jasmine blossoms.

Amalfi Coast, Italy: Sunset Spritz

This vibrant spritz mirrors the colors and citrus-scented air of an Amalfi Coast sunset — bright, breezy and perfect for golden-hour sipping.

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Empress 1908 Indigo Gin
• 3 oz Aperol
• 3 oz prosecco (or club soda for a lighter version)
• Fresh orange and lemon slices for garnish
• Edible flowers (optional)

Method: Fill a large glass with crushed ice, add orange and lemon slices, pour in Aperol and gin, then top with prosecco or soda. Stir gently and garnish with edible flowers if desired.

London, England: Garden Gimlet

Floral and fragrant, the Garden Gimlet captures the garden-party charm of London with bright citrus and gentle floral notes.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Empress 1908 Elderflower Rose Gin
• 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
• 0.5 oz simple syrup

Method: Shake all ingredients with ice, then strain into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass. Garnish with a sprig of lavender or an edible flower for aroma.

Mykonos, Greece: Cucumber Blue

Cool, herbal and revitalizing, the Cucumber Blue is ideal for warm days on Mykonos or any summer afternoon when you want a refreshing, Mediterranean-inspired drink.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Empress 1908 Indigo Gin
• Soda water
• Fresh cucumber
• Fresh mint
• Cucumber ribbon and basil for garnish

Method: Gently muddle cucumber, basil and mint in the base of a chilled rocks glass. Add ice and gin, then top with soda water. Stir lightly and garnish with a cucumber ribbon and a sprig of basil.

Each of these cocktails uses Empress 1908 Gin as a foundation to evoke a place and mood — from sun-drenched Mediterranean shores to the refined tea rooms of Tokyo. Try them at home this summer to transport yourself, glass in hand, to one of these storied destinations.