We Are a Flavor Company

At Empirical, we believe that flavor has the power to create unforgettable experiences and connections. By focusing on flavor, we break not only with traditional norms of how spirits are made, but also redefine what they can be.

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Culinary Approach to Producing Spirits

Flavor Research

Flavor Research

Empirical’s flavor research is an exploration of botanicals, places, and the memories they hold. We experiment with ingredients, to uncover evocative flavors that connect experiences, landscapes, and memories.

Flavor Extraction

Flavor Extraction

Flavor extraction is a science based on the respect for each ingredient. We use different techniques to capture the truest expression of botanicals—from delicate florals to robust kernels and smoky chilis. By understanding how different compounds reveal themselves in spirit, water, or even acidic solutions, we extract layers of flavor that feel vivid and alive.

Flavor Layering

Layering Flavor

Layering flavors is an intentional process of building depth, balance, and complexity. Like composing a perfume or constructing a memory, we combine these distinct elements to create spirits with dimensionality.

Featured Product

Empirical Cilantro

A vivid botanical spirit built around fresh cilantro leaves, tomatillo, and green spice. Lively and vegetal - split it with Tequila for a refreshingly unique Margarita, or perfect in a Gimlet or Collins.

Empirical Cilantro opens with a sprightly, fresh citrus bouquet and a pop of garden-fresh herbaceousness, before finishing with a satisfying dry minerality and hints of fennel and green tomato. With a 38% ABV and a smooth base spirit made from French wheat, Cilantro is thoroughly unique yet designed to be approachable to cocktail fans and newcomers alike. Bursting with flavor in every drop, Cilantro shines in margaritas and sparkles with club soda.

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Make It Empirical

Whether you're reaching for something classic or craving something bold and experimental, Empirical elevates your cocktails. From simple pours to complex builds, Empirical makes it unforgettable.

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Trusted By The Top Establishments

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Awards & Endorsements

  • Meet The Man Behind The World’s Most Innovative Distillery

    Forbes 

  • Grabbing Double Gold, Silver & Bronze in SF

    Empirical 

  • A Bartender’s Guide to Working Niche Spirits into a Cocktail Menu

    SevenFifty Daily 

Our Spirits

  • AYUUK / ABV 43%

    Deep and earthy with a smoky Pasilla Mixe chili heart sourced directly from the mountains of Oaxaca. Rested in Oloroso sherry casks, it plays beautifully with mezcal or whiskey flavors. Smooth and delicious, sipped or mixed.

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  • CILANTRO / ABV 38%

    A vivid botanical spirit built around fresh cilantro leaves, tomatillo, and green spice. Lively and vegetal - split it with Tequila for a refreshingly unique Margarita, or perfect in a Gimlet or Collins.

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  • EMPIRICAL X DORITOS / ABV 42%

    Experience the indulgent flavors of your favorite snack in liquid form via this unique brand partnership. Open with umami and tangy aromas of nacho cheese, then move the deeper, corn-forward flavors of the chip and finish on a soft salty note. Neat over ice or in a great Bloody Mary.

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  • SOKA / ABV 43%

    Built from fermented US sorghum juice and syrup, Soka smells like fresh-cut grass and drinks like a summer harvest. Slightly funky, wholly new. A great changeup for rum in any drink, or try it with tonic and fresh plums.

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  • SYMPHONY 6 / ABV 40%

    A perfume of citrus leaves and flowers with ambrette seed and vetiver. Bright, complex, and herbaceous—a gin substitute for the floral inclined. The ultimate layered botanical spirit. Try it with Mediterranean tonic or in a twist on a French 75.

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  • THE PLUM, I SUPPOSE / ABV 32%

    A ghost of plum and marzipam - fruity, nutty, and delicate. Distilled from plum kernels and marigold kombucha, it pairs with stone-fruit cordials or dry vermouths. Perception of sweetness with a refreshing finish. Try it neat or over ice with a citrus soda.

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