Empress Gin Fizz

What is a Gin Fizz?

A gin fizz is a classic cocktail built around gin, citrus, and something sparkling. It's light, refreshing, and endlessly adaptable, which is why its been a favorite for generations. We love it as a base cocktail because it's simple enough to riff on, but structured enough to stay balanced, making it the perfect starting point for festive twists like this one.

Why Empress 1908 Gin Works So Well Here

We chose Empress 1908 Gin for this gin fizz because it's bright, botanical, and plays well with sparkling mixers. It's also a favorite when we're hosting. Keith loves to have a cocktail going while he's cooking, often mixing a drink for guest, like our Sparkling Purple Gin Cocktail or Empress Gin Frost Fizz, and keeping one nearby to sip while putting the finishing touches on dinner.

We created this recipe with that moment in mind. It's sweet, easy, and meant to be enjoyed before the meal with a small nibble like cheese or cranberries. Unlike a classic Tom Collins or Sloe Gin Fizz, this version is sweetened with ginger beer and a simple cranberry reduction for a more festive, approachable feel.

Ingredients You'll Need

• EMPRESS 19O8 GIN: botanical and floral, with a natural indigo hue that shifts color when mixed with citrus.
• FRESH CRANBERRIES: simmered into a quick reduction that adds sweetness, color, and a festive feel.
• SUGAR: balances the tart cranberries and helps create a smooth, syrupy base.
• ORANGE: adds a subtle citrus flavor and helps trigger Empress Gin's signature color change.
• GINGER BEER: brings fizz, warmth, and just enough sweetness to balance this drink. We like using Fever-Tree Ginger Beer for its clean, bold ginger flavor that doesn't overpower the cocktail.
• FRESH THYME: used as a garnish for a lightly herbal finish.
• ICE: for chilling and serving.

👉 See the recipe card below for full quantities and instructions.

How To Make This Gin Fizz

1. Make the cranberry base ahead of time: Simmer the cranberries with sugar and orange, then let the mixture cool completely before assembling the drinks.
2. Fill a pitcher with ice: This keeps everything cold and ready for batching.
3. Add the gin, ginger beer, and cranberry mixture: Pour gently to preserve the fizz.
4. Stir lightly: Just enough to combine without flattening the bubbles.
5. Serve and garnish: Pour into glasses and finish with fresh thyme and cranberries.

Variations and Easy Substitutions

• Less sweet: Use a drier ginger beer, or swap in soda water.
• Single serving: Mix in individual drinks over ice using the same proportions.
• No cranberries: Substitute pomegranate juice for a similar color and flavor.
• Garnish Swap: Try rosemary, orange peel, or sugared cranberrries.

This post was sponsored by our friends at Empress 1908 Gin. All opinions are are own.