The Aviation cocktail is a true gem in the world of classic cocktails, offering a unique flavor and striking appearance that sets it apart from the usual suspects. With its delicate balance of floral, citrus, and maraschino cherry notes, the Aviation is a refreshing and beautifully complex drink that transports you back to the elegance of early 20th-century cocktail culture. This cocktail has been making a comeback in recent years, reclaiming its place on menus and at home bars around the world. Let’s explore the fascinating history of the Aviation, what makes it so distinctive, and how you can master this classic cocktail at home.
The Origins of the Aviation Cocktail
The Aviation cocktail was first created by Hugo Ensslin, a bartender at the Hotel Wallick in New York City, around 1916. It made its first printed appearance in Ensslin’s book, Recipes for Mixed Drinks. The cocktail was named for its sky-blue color, a hue achieved by using crème de violette, a liqueur made from violet flowers. The drink’s name was inspired by the excitement surrounding the burgeoning field of aviation, which captured the public’s imagination in the early 20th century.
However, when the Savoy Cocktail Book was published in 1930, it omitted the crème de violette from its recipe, leaving only gin, maraschino liqueur, and lemon juice. This version became more widely known, and for years the drink was served without the distinctive violet hue. With the reintroduction of crème de violette to the market in the early 2000s, bartenders began reviving the original Aviation recipe, restoring its iconic blue color and floral complexity. Today, the Aviation is celebrated for its unique flavor profile and is regarded as one of the true classics in the world of cocktails.
Why the Aviation Cocktail is So Unique
The Aviation cocktail is distinct for a few reasons:
- Beautiful Color: The addition of crème de violette gives the Aviation its signature pale blue color, which is both elegant and eye-catching. The drink’s appearance alone makes it a favorite for special occasions and cocktail photography.
- Complex Flavor Profile: The combination of gin, maraschino liqueur, lemon juice, and crème de violette creates a cocktail that’s both floral and slightly fruity, with a refreshing citrus kick. It’s a drink that evolves as you sip, with each ingredient adding its own subtle layer of flavor.
- A True Classic: The Aviation is a cocktail that embodies the sophistication of the early 20th century, and its unique ingredients set it apart from other gin-based drinks. It’s a wonderful option for those looking to explore the more nuanced side of classic cocktails.
How to Make the Perfect Aviation Cocktail
Here’s how to create the classic Aviation cocktail, following Hugo Ensslin’s original recipe with crème de violette. With the right ingredients and technique, you can capture the beauty and elegance of this vintage drink at home.
Classic Aviation Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 oz (6 cl) gin
- ½ oz (1.5 cl) maraschino liqueur
- ½ oz (1.5 cl) fresh lemon juice
- ¼ oz (0.75 cl) crème de violette
- Ice
- Cherry or lemon twist for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add the gin, maraschino liqueur, lemon juice, and crème de violette.
- Shake Well: Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds, or until well-chilled.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Garnish: Garnish with a maraschino cherry or a lemon twist for an elegant finish.
Tip: The crème de violette is powerful, so a little goes a long way. Start with ¼ oz and adjust according to taste if you prefer a stronger floral note.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
- Gin: The botanical profile of gin is the backbone of the Aviation cocktail. A London Dry gin works well for a crisp, juniper-forward base, while a more floral gin, such as Hendrick’s or Aviation Gin, can enhance the drink’s floral qualities. Experiment to find the gin that best suits your taste.
- Maraschino Liqueur: Made from Marasca cherries, maraschino liqueur adds a subtle sweetness with a hint of almond-like bitterness. Luxardo is the most popular brand, known for its high quality and balanced flavor.
- Crème de Violette: This violet-flavored liqueur is essential for the original Aviation recipe. A small amount gives the cocktail its distinctive color and floral aroma. Brands like Rothman & Winter and Giffard make excellent crème de violette.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is a must for this cocktail. The tartness of lemon juice balances the sweetness of the liqueurs, creating a harmonious and refreshing drink.
Tips for Perfecting Your Aviation Cocktail
- Balance the Crème de Violette: Crème de violette can easily overwhelm the drink, so measure carefully. If you’re new to floral flavors, start with ⅛ oz and add more gradually.
- Use Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is essential to achieving the right balance of tartness. Bottled lemon juice often lacks the vibrancy needed for cocktails.
- Experiment with Garnishes: While a maraschino cherry is traditional, a lemon twist can add a nice citrus aroma. For a more floral presentation, you can garnish with an edible violet if available.
Aviation Cocktail Variations to Try
While the classic Aviation recipe is delicious on its own, you can experiment with these variations for a fun twist:
- Lavender Aviation: Substitute a few drops of lavender bitters for crème de violette to create a lavender-infused version with a similar floral note.
- Aviation Royale: Top the cocktail with a splash of Champagne or sparkling wine for a bubbly twist that’s perfect for celebrations.
- Gin and Lavender Aviation: For a more floral variation, use a gin infused with lavender or elderflower, which enhances the drink’s delicate floral notes.
- The Modern Aviation: If you don’t have crème de violette, you can make the simpler, Savoy-style version using just gin, maraschino liqueur, and lemon juice. While it lacks the signature color, it still delivers a refreshing and flavorful experience.
When to Serve the Aviation Cocktail
The Aviation cocktail is perfect for occasions when you want to add a touch of elegance and a splash of color to your drink menu. It’s an excellent choice for spring and summer gatherings, thanks to its light, refreshing flavors and floral notes. The Aviation also makes a stunning aperitif, setting the stage for a memorable evening with friends or family.
Whether served as a pre-dinner drink, at a cocktail party, or even as a sophisticated nightcap, the Aviation is a conversation starter that’s as delightful to look at as it is to drink.
The Aviation: A Timeless Tribute to Early Cocktail Culture
The Aviation cocktail is more than just a drink; it’s a piece of cocktail history that evokes the glamour of early 20th-century bars and the adventurous spirit of aviation. With its complex yet balanced flavors, it’s a perfect example of the art of classic cocktails. Despite its vintage origins, the Aviation feels modern and fresh, making it a timeless addition to any cocktail repertoire.
So next time you’re in the mood for a cocktail that’s both elegant and full of character, shake up an Aviation. With its beautiful sky-blue hue, floral notes, and refreshing citrus kick, it’s a drink that will take your taste buds to new heights. Cheers to the elegance of the Aviation!