The Aviation is a classic gin cocktail that is both delicious and beautiful. It was created during the aviation boom of the early 20th century, and it is said to have been inspired by the blue sky and vastness of the heavens. It was first published in Hugo Ensslin’s book “Recipes for Mixed Drinks” in 1916, where it was described as a cocktail made with gin, lemon juice, maraschino liqueur, and crème de violette. The Aviation quickly became popular, and it has remained a classic cocktail ever since.
The Ingredients
The key ingredients in an Aviation cocktail are gin, lemon juice, maraschino liqueur, and crème de violette. Gin is the base spirit, and it is the most important ingredient in the cocktail. Lemon juice is used to balance out the sweetness of the other ingredients and to give the cocktail a slightly tart taste. Maraschino liqueur, which is made from sour cherries, is used to add a slightly sweet and nutty flavor to the cocktail. Crème de violette is a sweet liqueur made from violet flowers, which gives the cocktail its distinctive blue color.
The Preparation
To make an Aviation cocktail, start by filling a shaker with ice. Add in two ounces of gin, one ounce of fresh lemon juice, half an ounce of maraschino liqueur, and a quarter ounce of crème de violette. Shake the ingredients vigorously for about ten seconds, then strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass.
If you want to recreate the original recipe, you can also add a dash of absinthe to the cocktail. Absinthe is a spirit made from wormwood, and it was popular during the early 20th century. The addition of absinthe gives the Aviation cocktail a slightly bitter and herbal taste.
The Presentation
One of the most appealing aspects of the Aviation cocktail is its beautiful blue color. The use of crème de violette gives the cocktail a distinct violet hue, which is reminiscent of a clear sky at dawn or dusk. To add a visual element, you can also garnish the cocktail with a maraschino cherry.
The Aviation cocktail is a classic gin cocktail that is elegant, refreshing, and easy to make. Its unique combination of ingredients gives it a distinct flavor profile that is both sweet and tart. It is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your guests. Whether you are a fan of gin cocktails or simply looking for a new drink to try, the Aviation should definitely be on your list.