Aviation

Instructions

1. Chill your coupe glass by filling it with ice and water or placing it in the freezer for a few minutes.

2. Add the gin, maraschino liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and violet syrup to a shaker.

3. Fill the shaker with ice cubes.

4. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until the outside of the shaker is well-chilled.

5. Discard the ice from your chilled coupe glass.

6. Double strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into the chilled coupe glass to remove any small ice shards or lemon pulp.

7. Garnish with a maraschino cherry dropped into the glass or balanced on the rim.

Trivia

• What does an Aviation cocktail taste like?

  The Aviation cocktail offers a complex and refreshing taste. It's primarily tart from the lemon juice, balanced by the unique sweet and slightly bitter almond/cherry notes of Maraschino liqueur. The gin provides a botanical backbone, and the violet liqueur (or syrup) adds subtle floral notes and, traditionally, its signature pale blue colour.

• Why is it called an Aviation cocktail?

  The Aviation cocktail was created in the early 20th century, during the dawn of human flight. It first appeared in Hugo Ensslin's 1916 book 'Recipes for Mixed Drinks'. The name likely references this exciting era of aviation, and its pale, sky-blue colour (when made with Crème de Violette) further evokes the theme of flight.

• What is the best gin for an Aviation?

  A classic London Dry gin works exceptionally well in an Aviation, as its juniper-forward profile complements the other ingredients. However, you can experiment with more contemporary or floral gins to enhance different aspects of the cocktail. Avoid overly sweet or Old Tom gins, as they might clash with the Maraschino liqueur.

• Is Crème de Violette essential for an Aviation?

  Historically, Crème de Violette was a key ingredient, giving the drink its name-related colour. However, it fell out of favour and production for many years, leading to many recipes omitting it. While you can make a tasty version without it (sometimes called an 'Aviation (No Violette)'), adding Crème de Violette or a quality Violet Syrup provides the intended floral notes and the classic appearance. This recipe uses Violet Syrup as a readily available alternative.

• What is Maraschino Liqueur?

  Maraschino Liqueur is a clear, relatively dry liqueur distilled from Marasca cherries (including the crushed pits, which add an almond note). It's distinct from the bright red syrup found in jars of maraschino cherries. Luxardo is the most famous brand, and its unique flavour is crucial to cocktails like the Aviation, Hemingway Daiquiri, and Last Word.

• How do you serve an Aviation cocktail?

  The Aviation is traditionally served 'up' (chilled, without ice) in a chilled coupe or martini glass. It should be double-strained after shaking to ensure a smooth texture free of ice chips or pulp. A common garnish is a single brandied or maraschino cherry, though a lemon twist can also be used.