Introduction:
Elevate your cocktail experience with the classic and sophisticated “Aviation,” a cocktail that takes you on a journey back to the golden age of travel. The “Aviation” is a refined and elegant drink with a beautiful pale sky-blue hue, achieved through the delicate balance of gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and lemon juice. A taste of this vintage concoction will transport you to the early 20th century when adventurous spirits soared the skies.
Ingredients:
2 oz gin
1/2 oz maraschino liqueur
1/4 oz crème de violette
3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
Equipment:
Cocktail shaker
Martini glass or coupe glass
Instructions:
Step 1: Chill the Glass
Begin by placing a martini glass or coupe glass in the freezer or filling it with ice water to chill. A cold glass will ensure your “Aviation” stays perfectly chilled as you enjoy it.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a cocktail shaker, pour in 2 oz of gin. The botanicals in the gin provide a complex and aromatic foundation for the cocktail. Add 1/2 oz of maraschino liqueur to impart a subtle cherry flavor and a hint of sweetness.
Step 3: Add Color and Citrus
Add 1/4 oz of crème de violette, giving the cocktail its distinct and alluring blue hue, reminiscent of the clear skies. Pour in 3/4 oz of fresh lemon juice for a zesty and fresh kick that balances the sweet and floral components.
Step 4: Shake
Fill the shaker with ice and give it a brisk shake until the outside of the shaker feels cold. Shaking not only chills the drink but also adds the right dilution and aeration, ensuring a smooth texture.
Step 5: Strain and Serve
Empty the chilled glass if you’ve been using it to chill. Strain the “Aviation” into the glass, ensuring a clear, clean pour without ice chips.
Step 6: Garnish
For garnish, you can drop in a brandied cherry or express a lemon peel over the drink and rub it around the rim; then drop it in. The scent of the lemon will enhance the aromatic experience as you sip.
Tips and Variations:
Some “Aviation” recipes omit crème de violette due to its strong flavor. Adjust to taste if you prefer a more subtle violet note.
If Maraschino liqueur is too sweet for you, reduce the quantity slightly.
For a drier version, experiment with different types of gin, perhaps one with a more pronounced juniper or citrus profile.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair the “Aviation” with canapés or light appetizers such as smoked salmon on toast points or goat cheese-stuffed dates. It’s an excellent choice for cocktail hour or an elegant dinner party.
Flavor Profile:
The “Aviation” cocktail presents a delightful bouquet of flavors—floral and sweet from the crème de violette and maraschino liqueur, with a refreshingly tart edge from the lemon juice—all grounded by the dry, aromatic complexity of gin.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or simply looking to explore classic mixology, the “Aviation” offers a taste of sophistication and history. As you sip this cocktail, imagine yourself in a bygone era of luxury air travel, where every flight was an occasion worth toasting to. Lift your glass to the sky and let your spirits fly with the timeless elegance of an “Aviation.” Cheers!
