Aviation Cocktail Recipe: A Classic with a Floral Twist

A Brief History of the Aviation Cocktail

The Aviation cocktail dates back to the early 20th century, with its origins often attributed to Hugo Ensslin, a bartender at the Hotel Wallick in New York City. First published in his 1916 book, "Recipes for Mixed Drinks," the Aviation quickly gained popularity among cocktail aficionados. Its name is believed to be inspired by the burgeoning aviation industry of the time, symbolizing a sense of adventure and innovation.

This cocktail is characterized by its beautiful pale blue hue, thanks to the inclusion of crème de violette, a floral liqueur made from violet petals. The Aviation has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, thanks to the craft cocktail movement and a renewed interest in classic drinks.

What You'll Need

To create your own Aviation cocktail, gather the following ingredients:

• Gin: The base spirit of the cocktail, gin adds a refreshing herbal note that balances the sweetness of the liqueurs.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the other ingredients, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Crème de Violette: This floral liqueur is what gives the Aviation its signature color and a delicate floral aroma, making it a standout drink.
• Maraschino Liqueur: A cherry-flavored liqueur that adds a subtle sweetness and complexity to the cocktail, rounding out the flavor profile beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The Aviation cocktail is not just a drink; it's an experience. Here are a few reasons why you'll fall in love with this recipe:

• Visual Appeal: The stunning pale blue color of the Aviation cocktail is sure to impress your guests and make any gathering feel special.
• Balanced Flavors: The combination of gin, citrus, and floral notes creates a perfectly balanced cocktail that is refreshing and sophisticated.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up this classic cocktail in no time, making it perfect for both casual evenings and special occasions.
• Versatile: The Aviation cocktail can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences or to use up ingredients you have on hand.

Tips for Substitutions and Variations

While the classic Aviation cocktail is delicious as is, feel free to experiment with these substitutions and variations:

• Gin Alternatives: If you're not a fan of gin, try using vodka for a smoother, less herbal flavor. Alternatively, a floral gin can enhance the drink's aromatic qualities.
• Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of maraschino liqueur to suit your taste. If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, reduce the quantity or omit it altogether.
• Crème de Violette: If you can't find crème de violette, consider using a different floral liqueur, such as elderflower liqueur, for a unique twist.
• Fruit Garnishes: While a cherry or twist of lemon peel is traditional, feel free to get creative with your garnishes. A sprig of fresh lavender or a few edible flowers can add an elegant touch.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To make your Aviation cocktail even more special, consider these serving and presentation tips:

• Glassware: Serve your Aviation in a classic coupe or cocktail glass to enhance its vintage charm.
• Chill Your Ingredients: For an extra refreshing drink, chill your gin and liqueurs in advance.
• Pairing Suggestions: The Aviation cocktail pairs beautifully with light appetizers, such as shrimp cocktail, smoked salmon, or a cheese platter. It also complements desserts like lemon tart or berry sorbet.