When it comes to alcoholic beverages, the color purple is quite rare. Most spirits, beers, and wines range in color from clear to brown, yellow, or red. However, there are a few types of alcohol that exhibit a distinct purple hue.
The Origins of Purple Alcohol
The purple color in alcoholic beverages generally comes from one of two sources:
- Natural berry or fruit pigments – Dark berries like blackberries, blueberries, and elderberries have deep purple shades that can impart color to alcohol. Other purple/red fruits like plums and grapes can also contribute to a violet liquor color.
- Artificial food coloring additives – In some cases, purple food dye is added to alcoholic drinks to achieve a vivid violet tone. This allows manufacturers to create unique and eye-catching colored cocktails.
Naturally Purple Alcoholic Beverages
There are a number of spirits, liqueurs, wines, and cordials that exhibit a natural purple hue due to their ingredients. Some of the most prominent examples include:
Crème de Violette
Crème de Violette is a sweet, floral liqueur made from violets, which lend it a pale lavender color. It has a light, delicate taste and is used in classic cocktails like the Aviation, Blue Moon, and Bluebird.
Cassis
Cassis is a French liqueur made from blackcurrants that possesses a stunning rich, burgundy purple shade. It has a tart, fruity flavor and is commonly mixed into cocktails, sipped as an aperitif, or splashed into sparkling wine to make a Kir Royal.
Elderberry Wine
Wines made from elderberries take on a deep violet color that is both striking and refreshing. They have a tangy, crisp flavor with notes of ripe berries. Elderberry wine is produced worldwide from the berries of various Sambucus tree species.
Blackberry Brandy
Traditional blackberry brandies distilled from fermented blackberries contain a natural dark purple tone. They taste robust and sweet with pronounced blackberry fruitiness. Popular mass-produced brands include Echt Blackberry and Black Haus.
Plum Wine
In Asia, plum wines like Umeshu (Japanese) and Maesil-ju (Korean) get their sunset plum color from the use of ripe plums in production. They strike a balance between sweet and tart plum flavors. Chrysanthemum liquor and sake infused with purple chrysanthemums also have a light purple tinge.
Artificially Colored Purple Alcohol
In addition to naturally purple drinks, some alcohols use artificial purple food coloring to achieve a vibrant tone. Some vividly purple products include:
Purple Hooter Shot
This popular shot combines vodka, raspberry liqueur, and lemon-lime soda dyed bright purple. It has a fun bubblegum-like flavor.
Purple Passion
Typically made with vodka, triple sec, grape juice, and blue curacao liqueur, this tropical cocktail gets its name from the striking purple color.
Purple Rain Shot
Comprised of Hpnotiq liqueur, vodka, and lemonade, the Purple Rain shot contains electric blue food coloring that creates a bold violet drink.
Purple People Eater Cocktail
This Halloween-inspired mixed drink features raspberry vodka, triple sec, sweet and sour mix, cranberry juice, and Chambord, resulting in a spooky purple potion.
Why Use Purple Food Coloring in Alcohol?
There are a few reasons why artificial purple food dye is sometimes added to alcoholic beverages:
- Create unique colored cocktails – Vivid colors help drinks stand out from clear liquors.
- Match branding/marketing – Certain brands use purple to align with their logos, names, etc.
- Festive drinks – Purple fits holidays like Halloween or Mardi Gras.
- Increase appeal – Bright colors are eye-catching and perceived as fun.
Health Concerns with Purple Food Dye
While vibrantly colored purple cocktails may seem exciting, there are some health concerns associated with artificial food dyes like FD&C Blue No. 1 and Red No. 40, which are used to produce purple:
- Potential toxicity – High doses of food dye can be toxic in animal studies.
- Allergic reactions – Dyes can trigger adverse responses in those with sensitivities.
- Hyperactivity – Some evidence links dyes to behavioral issues in children.
- Cancer risk – More research is needed on potential carcinogenicity.
Consuming purple alcohol occasionally is unlikely to cause harm, but moderation is recommended. When possible, choosing naturally purple drinks made with fruit juices and plant extracts can help limit exposure to artificial dyes.
Conclusion
While most alcoholic beverages tend to be clear, brown, or red, it is possible to find and create purple hued drinks. Naturally purple alcohol gets its color from berries, plums, grapes, and other fruits. Vivid artificial purple alcohol relies on food coloring additives. When consumed responsibly and in moderation, purple alcohol can be a unique and eye-catching option.