A light, refreshing twist on a classic, the Cucumber Aviation is the perfect cocktail for warm afternoons and summer evenings. It takes the floral elegance of the original Aviation and adds a crisp cucumber freshness that makes each sip incredibly smooth. If you’re a fan of gin-based drinks with a delicate balance of citrus, floral, and herbal notes, this one’s for you.
Cucumber Aviation
I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and one thing I’ve learned is that fresh cucumber juice makes all the difference. Let’s walk through how to make it perfectly at home.
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) gin
- 1 oz (30ml) fresh cucumber juice (see tips below for the best method)
- 0.75 oz (22.5ml) fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz (15ml) maraschino liqueur
- 0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup
- 0.25 oz (7.5ml) crème de violette
- Ice (for shaking)
- Cucumber slice or ribbon (for garnish)
Glass: A coupe glass works best, as its wide bowl enhances the delicate aromas. A martini glass is another elegant option.
How to Make a Cucumber Aviation
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the gin, cucumber juice, lemon juice, maraschino liqueur, simple syrup, and crème de violette.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, until the mixture is well-chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a thin cucumber slice or ribbon for a fresh, elegant touch.
Tip: If you don’t have a cocktail shaker, a mason jar with a lid works in a pinch—just shake well and strain using a fine mesh sieve.
Tips for the Best Cucumber Aviation
- Use fresh cucumber juice: Blend peeled cucumber and strain through a fine sieve or cheesecloth. The fresher the juice, the more vibrant the flavor.
- Chill your glass: Pop it in the freezer for a few minutes before serving to keep the drink colder longer.
- Shake with enthusiasm: This helps blend the flavors while ensuring the cocktail is properly chilled.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can mix everything except the ice and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, shake with ice and strain into a glass.
Variations & Substitutions
Want to mix things up? Try these fun variations:
Spicy Cucumber Aviation
- Add a thin slice of jalapeño to the shaker for a subtle heat.
Herbal Cucumber Aviation
- Muddle a few fresh basil leaves with cucumber juice before shaking.
Berry Cucumber Aviation
- Toss in a few fresh berries before shaking for a fruity twist.
Non-Alcoholic Cucumber Aviation
- Replace gin and maraschino liqueur with sparkling water and a splash of elderflower syrup for a refreshing mocktail.
What to Serve with a Cucumber Aviation
This cocktail pairs beautifully with light, fresh dishes:
- Smoked Salmon – The smoky richness contrasts nicely with the crisp cucumber and floral notes.
- Sushi – Clean, delicate flavors that match the drink’s refreshing profile.
- Goat Cheese Salad – The creamy, tangy cheese balances the drink’s citrus and floral elements.
I love sipping this cocktail with a simple cheese platter—it’s the perfect way to unwind after a long week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a Cucumber Aviation ahead of time?
Yes! Mix everything except the ice and store it in the fridge. Just shake with ice before serving.
What if I don’t have crème de violette?
You can leave it out for a less floral version, or substitute with a touch of lavender syrup.
What’s the best gin to use?
A floral or botanical gin works best, enhancing the delicate flavors of the cocktail.
Can I use store-bought cucumber juice?
Fresh is always better, but store-bought can work if you’re short on time. Look for one with no added sugar.
How can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the simple syrup or use a sugar-free alternative.
This Cucumber Aviation is one of my go-to cocktails for warm nights—light, refreshing, and just the right amount of floral and citrus. Give it a try, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors to make it your own!
