Aviation cocktail
The Aviation cocktail is a classic cocktail made with gin, maraschino liqueur, lemon juice and creme de violette. The latter is a flavoured liqueur which tints the drink to a pale sky colour from which the cocktail took its name.
This classic Aviation drink recipe is a fusion of citrus and floral notes that doesn't taste overly sweet and still has a gentle kick of alcohol.
The first recipe of the cocktail appeared in 1916 in the book for mixed drinks that belonged to a German bartender living in America.
- Total Time:
- Type: Cocktail
- Units: 2
Equipment
- Cocktail glass
Ingredients
- 50 ml gin
- 25 ml lemon juice
- 20 ml maraschino liqueur
- 10 ml crème de violette
- 2 blueberries (to garnish)
Instructions
- Fill the cocktail shaker with ice. Add the gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette and lemon juice and shake until well-chilled.
- Strain the liquid into a cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a few blueberries. Serve and enjoy!
FAQ
What are the best gin cocktails?
If you like a gin cocktail like the Aviation cocktail, we also have a roundup of the 10 best gin cocktails, it’s not official, but we think you’ll find them interesting and worth trying out.
What is an Aviation cocktail?
The Aviation is a classic gin-based cocktail made with maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and lemon juice. It is shaken with ice and served straight up in a chilled glass.
How does an Aviation taste?
It has a delicate floral note from the crème de violette, balanced by the sweetness of maraschino and the sharpness of fresh lemon juice.
Can I make an Aviation without crème de violette?
Yes, but you’ll lose the cocktail’s signature colour and subtle floral flavour. Without it, the drink becomes closer to a gin sour or a Gimlet.
What food pairs well with an Aviation?
The Aviation’s bright, floral profile pairs well with light appetisers such as smoked salmon, soft cheeses, or cucumber canapés.
What cocktails are similar to an Aviation?
If you enjoy gin-forward classics, try the Clover Club for another pre-Prohibition favourite, or the Bee’s Knees for a honey-sweetened twist.