In the Aviation cocktail, gin provides a strong foundation, Maraschino liqueur adds bitter cherry notes, Crème de Violette lends its delicate floral character, and fresh lemon juice brings a touch of acidity. With its distinctive pale bluish-purple hue and floral aroma, this drink may seem like a newcomer to the cocktail scene. Nevertheless, there’s always a mixologist or enthusiast who ensures it never fades into obscurity.
Story
The Aviation cocktail originated in the 1910s and rose to prominence thanks to Hugo Ensslin, head bartender at the Hotel Wallick in New York, who first recorded its recipe in 1916. The name was inspired by early aviation, with the cocktail’s color evoking the clear sky. By the 1960s, Crème de Violette had largely disappeared from the market. As a result, it wasn’t until the cocktail renaissance of the 2000s that the ingredient made its long-awaited return.
Ingredients
2 oz (60 ml) gin
½ oz (15 ml) Maraschino liqueur
½ oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
¼ oz (7 ml) Crème de Violette
How to make an Aviation cocktail
Pour all ingredients into a shaker filled with ice and shake well to blend and chill. Strain into a pre-chilled coupe or martini glass.
Serving and garnish
The Aviation cocktail is traditionally served in a coupe or martini glass. For garnish, place a maraschino cherry on a cocktail pick or add a twist of lemon peel for an elegant finishing touch.
Calorie content
A single serving of the Aviation cocktail contains approximately 170-190 calories, with the primary contributors being the Maraschino liqueur and Crème de Violette.