If you see purple gin and tonics and indigo-colored margaritas sprouting up on Denver menus this spring, it’s partly because bartenders want to make you a cocktail that shows team spirit. But it’s also because they’re obsessed with butterfly pea flower, a bloom that’s native to Southeast Asia and that can act like an all-natural dye, turning drinks a lovely Colorado Rockies shade of purple.
Across from Coors Field, at The Rally Bar in McGregor Square, for instance, the Rally Up cocktail has become a fan favorite and is made with Family Jones Vodka, St. Germain elderflower liqueur, butterfly pea flower, lemon and honey.