Introduction

Unveil the timeless elegance of the Aviation Cocktail, a true masterpiece among classic gin-based spirits. This isn't just any drink; it's a journey for your palate, offering a delicate balance of vibrant citrus notes from fresh lemon, the unique floral whisper of crème de violette, and the subtle, almond-cherry complexity of maraschino liqueur. A truly captivating gin cocktail, the Aviation stands out with its enchanting hue and sophisticated flavor profile, perfect for those who appreciate a finely crafted drink served up.

Ingredients

• 15 ml Fresh Lemon Juice
• 15 ml Maraschino Liqueur
• 1 barspoon Crème de Violette

Preparation

1. Gather all your ingredients and a cocktail shaker.
2. Fill your cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add 45 ml of gin, 15 ml of fresh lemon juice, 15 ml of maraschino liqueur, and 1 barspoon of crème de violette to the shaker.
4. Shake well for about 15-20 seconds until thoroughly chilled.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass, ensuring no ice slips in.

Notes & Tips

This exquisite gin cocktail is designed to be served straight up, meaning chilled and without ice, allowing its nuanced flavors to take center stage. For the classic presentation, garnish your Aviation with a single, perfectly ripe maraschino cherry. Want to elevate it further? A delicate lemon twist or even an edible violet flower can add an extra touch of sophistication. If you find it a little too sour or sweet for your taste, feel free to slightly adjust the lemon juice or maraschino liqueur next time. Remember to chill your cocktail glass beforehand for the ultimate crisp experience!

History

The Aviation Cocktail traces its origins back to the early 20th century, a golden age for classic cocktails and a time when fascination with flight captivated the world. While its exact genesis remains somewhat debated, it’s widely believed to have been created by Hugo Ensslin, a bartender at the Hotel Wallick in New York, around 1916. Its distinct, almost sky-like hue, imparted by the crème de violette, is what truly gave this cocktail its evocative name. It experienced a period of obscurity after Prohibition, largely due to the difficulty in sourcing crème de violette, but has since seen a magnificent resurgence, re-establishing itself as a beloved sour and citrus-forward staple in the world of shaken gin spirits.

Visual Description

Imagine holding a beautifully chilled cocktail glass, brimming with a drink that shimmers with a pale, ethereal lavender or sky-blue hue – a visual nod to its namesake. This vibrant and alluring gin-based spirit is presented 'straight up,' meaning it's perfectly chilled and devoid of ice, allowing its clarity to truly shine. A single, dark red maraschino cherry rests elegantly at the bottom or on the rim, providing a striking contrast to the drink's delicate color, making it as much a treat for the eyes as it is for the palate.

Conclusion

The Aviation Cocktail is more than just a drink; it's an experience, a nod to a bygone era of elegance and adventure. Perfect for a sophisticated evening gathering, a quiet moment of reflection, or anytime you crave a complex yet refreshing gin spirit. Don't let its delicate appearance fool you – this is a robust and flavorful cocktail that promises to delight with every sip. So go ahead, mix one up, sit back, and let the Aviation transport you!