As a passionate cocktail enthusiast, I always relish the exploration of classic drinks, their history, and their wonderfully symphonic mix of flavors. And, have you ever wandered into a vintage cocktail, crafted with rich ingredients, and felt like your taste buds were taking a transatlantic flight? That’s exactly the sensation you get when you encounter the Aviation cocktail, a pre-prohibition classic that’s as blue as the skies it’s named after.
Imagine, if you will, a drink that transports you back to a time when aviation was still a novel marvel, a symbol of sophistication and adventure. Intriguing, isn’t it? How does a cocktail encapsulate the thrill of the early 1900s aviation craze? The answer lies in the meticulous blending of ingredients that give the Aviation cocktail its signature flavor and color. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the magic behind this classic tipple.
The History of the Aviation Cocktail
The Aviation cocktail first emerged in the early 20th century during the pre-prohibition era in the United States. It was initially mentioned in Hugo R. Ensslin’s 1916 cocktail book, “Recipes for Mixed Drinks,” as a gin cocktail with lemon juice, maraschino liqueur, and crème de violette.
As an interesting note, the inclusion of crème de violette made the drink unique. It lent the cocktail a pale sky-blue color, hence the name ‘Aviation’. However, the recipe later evolved and omitted crème de violette, mainly due to its scarcity post prohibition. The modern versions often reintroduce it, honoring the original recipe.
The Ingredients that Make it Fly
The Aviation cocktail is a gin-based mix that relies on a few key ingredients for its distinctive taste and appearance. The first and most important is, of course, the gin. Opt for a dry gin as it serves as a perfect base, allowing the other ingredients to shine through.
The other two crucial elements are the maraschino liqueur and crème de violette. Maraschino liqueur brings a slightly sweet, slightly nutty flavor to the cocktail, while the crème de violette lends that iconic pale blue hue and a floral note. Fresh lemon juice adds acidity and brightness, balancing the sweetness of the other ingredients. Finally, a cherry garnish lends the final touch of elegance to this classic cocktail.
Mixing the Aviation Cocktail
There’s a certain charm to mixing classic cocktails. The process is not just about combining the ingredients; it’s about appreciating the art of mixology. For the Aviation cocktail, you’ll start by adding the gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and lemon juice into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
Then, it’s time for the shake. A good shake is crucial as it combines the ingredients thoroughly and also slightly dilutes the drink, mellowing out the flavors. After a vigorous shake, strain the cocktail into a chilled glass. Garnish with a maraschino cherry or a twist of lemon peel, sit back, and savor the unique blend of flavors that make up the Aviation cocktail.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Dry gin
- 1/2 oz Maraschino liqueur
- 1/4 oz Crème de violette
- 3/4 oz Fresh lemon juice
- Maraschino cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add in the gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and lemon juice.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
- Strain the cocktail into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry or a lemon twist.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Tips for Aviation Cocktail
For a flawless Aviation cocktail, ensure your gin and liqueurs are of good quality, as this heavily influences the final taste. When shaking, do so until the shaker feels very cold, which indicates the cocktail is well chilled and slightly diluted. Lastly, always use fresh lemon juice. The bottled variety lacks the brightness and acidity that fresh lemon juice imparts to the cocktail.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This is a cocktail that offers a unique blend of flavors, color, and history. The Aviation cocktail is a must-try for its intriguing mix of floral, sour, and subtly sweet notes. The gin base makes it a delight for gin lovers, while the maraschino and violette give it a distinctive flair unlike any other drink. Experience a taste of the early 20th century with this nostalgic and classy cocktail.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 215 kcal