There’s something truly magical about sipping a classic Aviation cocktail. Its delicate purple hue is reminiscent of twilight skies, and its taste is an exquisite balance of floral, citrus, and botanical notes.
This storied drink dates back to the early 20th century but still feels modern and sophisticated today. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or simply looking to elevate your home bar repertoire, the Aviation is a showstopper that’s sure to impress at any gathering.
In this comprehensive recipe guide, I’ll walk you through making the perfect Aviation cocktail using precise milliliter (ml) measurements. This ensures accuracy for international readers and guarantees consistent results every time.
From ingredient selection to expert tips and creative variations, you’ll find everything you need to craft this iconic drink. Let’s take off on a journey into the world of classic cocktails—one delicious sip at a time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elegant and Unique Flavor: The Aviation combines gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and fresh lemon juice for a one-of-a-kind floral and citrus profile.
- Stunning Presentation: Its pale lavender color and cherry garnish make it visually striking—perfect for special occasions or impressing guests.
- Easy to Make at Home: With simple equipment and clear ml measurements, you can achieve professional-level results in your own kitchen.
- Flexible and Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or try one of the variations for a creative twist.
- Rich History: This classic cocktail connects you to the golden age of mixology.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Measurement (ml) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gin | 50 ml | London Dry gin works best |
| Maraschino Liqueur | 15 ml | Luxardo or similar |
| Crème de Violette | 7.5 ml | Rothman & Winter or similar |
| Fresh Lemon Juice | 15 ml | Freshly squeezed for best flavor |
| Ice | As needed | For shaking |
| Maraschino Cherry | 1 | For garnish |
Equipment
- Cocktail Shaker – Essential for achieving a well-chilled, mixed drink.
- Jigger or Measuring Jug – For precise ml measurements.
- Fine Strainer – To ensure a silky-smooth pour.
- Martini or Coupe Glass – The traditional serving vessel for an Aviation.
- Citrus Juicer – For extracting fresh lemon juice.
- Bar Spoon – Useful for gentle stirring if needed.
Instructions
-
Chill Your Glass:
Place your martini or coupe glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water while you prepare the cocktail. A chilled glass keeps your Aviation crisp and refreshing.
-
Measure the Ingredients:
Using a jigger or measuring jug, pour 50 ml gin, 15 ml maraschino liqueur, 7.5 ml crème de violette, and 15 ml fresh lemon juice into the cocktail shaker.
-
Add Ice:
Fill the shaker with plenty of ice. This chills the drink quickly and helps dilute it slightly for a balanced flavor.
-
Shake Vigorously:
Seal the shaker and shake for about 15 seconds, or until the outside of the shaker feels very cold to the touch.
-
Strain:
Empty your glass if you were chilling it with ice. Using a fine strainer, pour the cocktail into your chilled glass to ensure a smooth texture.
-
Garnish and Serve:
Drop a maraschino cherry into the drink or skewer it on a cocktail pick and rest it on the rim. Serve immediately and enjoy your Aviation at its best.
Tips & Variations
Tip: “Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor. Bottled juice just doesn’t compare!”
- Adjust the Violette: Crème de violette can be potent. If you prefer a subtler floral note, start with 5 ml and add more to taste.
- Gin Selection: Experiment with different gins. A classic London Dry provides a crisp backbone, but a floral or citrus-forward gin can add an intriguing twist.
- No Violette? The original Aviation recipe (circa 1916) omitted crème de violette. Try it without for a more tart, classic profile.
- Sweeten It Up: If you like your drinks a touch sweeter, add 5 ml simple syrup.
- Citrus Swap: Try Meyer lemon juice for a softer, slightly sweeter citrus flavor.
- Mocktail Version: Replace gin with non-alcoholic spirit and use violet syrup instead of crème de violette for a zero-proof take.
- Batch for a Crowd: Multiply ingredients by the number of guests and prepare in a pitcher. Stir over ice and strain into chilled glasses.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 170 |
| Carbohydrates | 11 g |
| Sugar | 9 g |
| Alcohol | ~18 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Sodium | 1 mg |
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on brands used and pour size.
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect Aperitif: Serve the Aviation as a welcome drink at dinner parties or special celebrations. Its bright, floral taste pairs beautifully with light appetizers.
- Food Pairings: Try it alongside a fresh vegan spinach salad or delicate canapés. The cocktail’s acidity and botanicals complement fresh greens, mild cheeses, and seafood.
- Elegant Presentation: Use a coupe glass for a vintage vibe, and consider an edible flower garnish (like a violet or pansy) for extra flair.
- Seasonal Touch: For spring or summer gatherings, serve with a platter of fresh fruit or a vegan chocolate smoothie bowl as a sweet contrast.
- Brunch Glam: The Aviation makes a chic alternative to mimosas or Bloody Marys for brunches and afternoon teas.
Conclusion
The Aviation cocktail is a testament to the enduring allure of classic mixology. Its captivating color and sophisticated flavor profile make it a favorite among bartenders and home enthusiasts alike.
By following this detailed recipe with ml measurements, you can bring a touch of cocktail history into your own kitchen—no passport required!
Remember, the secret to a standout Aviation is balance: fresh ingredients, careful measuring, and a touch of creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different gins or tweak the proportions to match your palate.
If you loved crafting this cocktail, why not explore more culinary adventures? For fresh, plant-based meal ideas, try our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe or discover the Best Vegetarian Recipes Without Tofu for Every Meal.
Cheers to good taste and happy mixing!
📖 Recipe Card: Aviation Cocktail
Description: The Aviation is a classic gin-based cocktail with floral and citrus notes. Its pale blue hue and refreshing taste make it a timeless favorite.
Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT5M
Servings: 1 cocktail
Ingredients
- 50 ml gin
- 15 ml maraschino liqueur
- 10 ml crème de violette
- 20 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Ice cubes
- Lemon twist or cherry, for garnish
Instructions
- Add gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and lemon juice to a cocktail shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice cubes.
- Shake well until chilled, about 15 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or cherry.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 0 g | Fat: 0 g | Carbs: 7 g
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