Classic Aviation co*cktail Recipe - Savored Sips (2024)

A classic Aviation co*cktail mixes the beautiful Crème de Violette with gin, lemon juice, and Maraschino liqueur to make a drink that’s both intriguing and exciting.

Why the Aviation co*cktail Is So Good

The Aviation is the epitome of balance. Its gin base provides a herbal foundation, while the tartness of freshly squeezed lemon juice cuts through the botanicals.

Maraschino liqueur adds a touch of sweetness without overwhelming the palate. The pièce de résistance, Crème de Violette, lends the co*cktail its distinctive hue and floral notes.

The result? A complex yet harmonious symphony of flavors that dance across your tongue.

The Origin Story

The Aviation traces its roots back to the early 20th century, a period known for the birth of many classic co*cktails. It first appeared in print in Hugo Ensslin’s 1916 book “Recipes for Mixed Drinks,” where it was listed with its hallmark ingredient, Crème de Violette. However, post-Prohibition versions often omitted this, likely due to its scarcity.

Thankfully, the revival of classic co*cktails has brought this essential component back into the spotlight, and with it, the Aviation’s original splendor.

What is Crème de Violette

Crème de Violette is the secret weapon in an Aviation co*cktail. This floral liqueur is made from violet flowers, and it’s the key to achieving the Aviation’s beautiful lavender hue. The taste is subtly sweet, almost perfume-like, but it’s balanced by the other elements in the co*cktail.

In the past, it was difficult to find, but the recent craft co*cktail movement has brought it back to prominence. If you’re serious about making an authentic Aviation, Crème de Violette is non-negotiable. For me, it wasn’t difficult to find at all. In fact, it was available at every liquor store I frequent.

The price is about $20-$25 for a 750ml, which isn’t bad, since you can make so many different drinks with it, like a Blue Moon co*cktail, a Violette Femme, or a Final Say co*cktail.

» You might also like this Vodka Gimlet co*cktail.

Ingredients You Need

• 1 1/2 oz gin
• 1/2 oz lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1/2 oz maraschino liqueur
• 1/4 oz Crème de Violette
• Cherry or lemon twist, for garnish

How to Make an Aviation co*cktail

1. Chill the Glass: Place a co*cktail glass in the freezer to chill.
2. Mix Your Ingredients: In a co*cktail shaker filled with ice, combine the gin, lemon juice, maraschino liqueur, and Crème de Violette.
3. Shake: Give it a vigorous shake for about 15-20 seconds to ensure all the ingredients are well-blended.
4. Strain: Strain the mixture into your chilled co*cktail glass.
5. Garnish: Add a cherry or lemon twist to elevate the look and add an extra layer of flavor.
6. Serve: Enjoy your Aviation co*cktail immediately, preferably with good company and great conversation.

Whether you’re a co*cktail aficionado or a newbie, the Aviation is a must-try. It’s not just a drink; it’s an experience. One sip and you’ll understand why this co*cktail has stood the test of time, earning its wings in the annals of mixology history.

So the next time you’re looking for a drink that combines complexity, balance, and a dash of historical intrigue, let the Aviation be your vehicle for a transcendent co*cktail journey. Cheers!

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Yield: 1 co*cktail

Classic Aviation co*cktail

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

A classic Aviation co*cktail mixes the beautiful Crème de Violette with gin, lemon juice, and Maraschino liqueur to make a drink that's both intriguing and exciting.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 ounces gin
• 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice, strained
• 1/2 ounce Crème de Violette
• Ice
• 1 cherry, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Mix the gin, lemon juice, maraschino liqueur and Creme de Violette in a co*cktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously until chilled.
2. Strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with a cherry.