Classic Aviation Cocktail: A Step-By-Step Recipe Guide

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces gin
  • 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons maraschino liqueur
  • 1/4 ounce crème de violette or crème Yvette
  • Ice
  • A cocktail cherry for garnish

Steps and instructions

  1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
  2. Add the gin, lemon juice, maraschino liqueur, and crème de violette to the shaker.
  3. Shake vigorously until well chilled, about 20 seconds.
  4. Strain the mixture into a cocktail glass.
  5. Garnish with a cocktail cherry before serving.

Tools for making

  • Cocktail shaker - Used to mix and chill the ingredients.
  • Cocktail glass - The vessel in which the Aviation cocktail will be served.
  • Cocktail cherry - A garnish for the finished cocktail, adding sweetness and visual appeal.

Recipe variations

  • Substitute gin with vodka for a different flavor profile.
  • Try using lime juice instead of lemon juice for a citrus twist.
  • Experiment with different liqueurs such as orange liqueur or raspberry liqueur.
  • Replace the crème de violette with crème Yvette or violet syrup for a similar floral note.
  • Add a dash of bitters for added complexity.
  • For a sweeter version, add a splash of simple syrup or agave nectar.
  • Garnish with a lemon twist instead of a cherry for a different presentation.

Recipe overview

This Aviation cocktail recipe will guide you in crafting a classic and sophisticated drink. The combination of gin and floral crème de violette gives this cocktail its unique and refreshing taste. With a hint of maraschino liqueur for sweetness and a splash of lemon juice for a crisp finish, it's an elegant choice for any occasion. This recipe will take you step by step through the process of chilling the ingredients, shaking them to perfection and garnishing the final product. Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or a cocktail enthusiast, you're sure to enjoy the process of creating this timeless beverage.

Common questions

  1. What kind of gin should I use? You can use any type of gin that you prefer, but London Dry gin is the traditional choice for an Aviation cocktail.
  2. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of freshly squeezed? While freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute if needed.
  3. What is the difference between crème de violette and crème Yvette? Crème de violette and crème Yvette are both violet liqueurs, but crème Yvette also contains other fruit flavors like raspberries and strawberries. You can use either one in this recipe, depending on your preference and availability.
  4. Can I skip the maraschino liqueur? Maraschino liqueur is an important ingredient in the Aviation cocktail as it adds a unique flavor and sweetness. It is recommended to include it, but if you don't have it on hand, you can omit it or substitute with a small amount of simple syrup.
  5. What glassware should I use? The Aviation cocktail is traditionally served in a coupe glass, but you can also use a martini glass if you prefer.
  6. Can I garnish with something other than a cherry? While a cocktail cherry is the traditional garnish for an Aviation cocktail, you can get creative and garnish with a lemon twist or even edible flowers if you prefer.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cocktail shaker - Used to mix and chill the ingredients.
  • Strainer - Used to strain the mixture into a cocktail glass, ensuring no ice or solids make it into the final drink.
  • Cocktail glass - The preferred glassware for serving the Aviation cocktail, with a classic stemmed design.
  • Cocktail cherry - A garnish to add a pop of color and a sweet finish to the drink.

Origin stories

The Aviation is a classic cocktail that dates back to the early 20th century, created during the golden age of flying. The name "Aviation" was inspired by the air travel boom and the sense of adventure and excitement it brought. The original recipe included crème de violette, giving the drink a sky-blue color that also contributed to its name. However, crème de violette became almost impossible to find for many years, and the Aviation was often served without it, resulting in a completely different flavor and color. Only recently, with the resurgence in popularity of classic cocktails, has the original version of the Aviation made a comeback.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.