The Aviation cocktail is a timeless classic that feels like a sip of elegance. With its delicate balance of floral, tart, and sweet flavors, it’s a drink that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, the Aviation is a showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to make. Let me guide you through it—this recipe has been a favorite of mine for years, and I’ve picked up a few tips along the way to make it perfect every time.
Blood Orange Aviation
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 oz (60 ml) gin – A dry gin works best, but feel free to experiment with floral or citrus-forward options.
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice – Always go for fresh; it makes a world of difference.
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) maraschino liqueur – Adds a subtle cherry sweetness.
- 0.25 oz (7 ml) crème de violette – Just enough for that signature sky-blue hue and a hint of floral flavor.
- Ice – For shaking and chilling.
- Garnish: A maraschino cherry or a lemon twist.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Strainer
- Martini or coupe glass
How to Make It
- Chill your glass. Pop your martini or coupe glass in the freezer for a few minutes or fill it with ice water while you prepare the drink.
- Shake it up. In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, lemon juice, and maraschino liqueur with ice. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds—your shaker should feel frosty and cold.
- Add the magic touch. Pour a drizzle of crème de violette into the chilled glass. This step gives the drink its stunning color and floral aroma.
- Strain and serve. Strain the shaken mixture into the glass over the crème de violette. The two will naturally mix, creating that dreamy blue hue.
- Garnish and enjoy. Top it off with a maraschino cherry or a twist of lemon for a polished look.
Tips for Success
- Fresh lemon juice is key. Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same brightness or zing.
- Chill everything. A cold shaker, glass, and ingredients make for a crisp, refreshing cocktail.
- Go easy on the crème de violette. A little goes a long way—too much, and the drink can taste overly floral.
Make-Ahead and Storage
- You can pre-mix the gin, lemon juice, and maraschino liqueur and keep it in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to serve, shake with ice and add the crème de violette.
- This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, so it’s not ideal for long-term storage.
Variations to Try
If you’re feeling adventurous, here are a few spins on the classic Aviation:
Blue Moon
- Omit the maraschino liqueur and stick to gin, lemon juice, and crème de violette. This version is lighter and simpler.
Aviation Royale
- Add a celebratory twist by topping your Aviation with champagne. Perfect for special occasions!
Amethyst
- Swap the lemon juice for white cranberry juice to create a sweeter, fruitier cocktail with a gorgeous purple hue.
Virgin Aviation
- For a non-alcoholic option, replace the gin with tonic water and skip the liqueurs. Use a splash of violet syrup and fresh lemon juice for a refreshing mocktail.
Food Pairings
Pairing the Aviation with the right snack or dish can elevate the whole experience. Here are a few ideas:
- Smoked salmon: Its rich, silky texture complements the bright and floral notes of the cocktail.
- Mild cheeses: A cheese platter with creamy brie or goat cheese balances the tartness and sweetness of the drink.
- Dark chocolate: A few squares of dark chocolate make for a sophisticated and indulgent pairing.
Common Questions
Can I make an Aviation without crème de violette?
Yes, but you’ll lose the signature sky-blue color and floral notes. It’ll taste more like a classic gin sour.
What’s the best gin for an Aviation?
A dry gin with floral or citrus notes works beautifully. Brands like Bombay Sapphire or Hendrick’s are great choices.
Can I batch this cocktail for a party?
Absolutely! Mix the gin, lemon juice, and maraschino liqueur in advance, then chill. Add the crème de violette to each glass as you serve for that perfect touch.
How do I get the right color?
Add the crème de violette gradually—start with a few drops and adjust until you hit that perfect shade of sky blue.
The Aviation is more than just a cocktail—it’s a little piece of history in a glass. Whether you’re savoring it solo or impressing guests, this drink is sure to leave a lasting impression. Cheers!
