The Aviation is a pre-Prohibition classic known for its striking blue-purple hue and floral, citrusy profile. Made with gin, maraschino liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of crème de violette, this cocktail is both visually captivating and elegantly refreshing.
🍸 Style: Classic / Pre-Prohibition
🌿 Flavor Profile: Floral, tart, slightly sweet
🕰 Time to Make: 5 minutes
🥃 Glassware: Coupe or Martini glass
🧊 Method: Shaken
Cocktail shaker
Jigger or measuring tool
Fine mesh strainer
Citrus juicer or reamer
Coupe or Martini glass
Place the coupe glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water to chill while preparing the cocktail.
In a cocktail shaker, combine:
1½ oz gin
½ oz maraschino liqueur
½ oz fresh lemon juice
¼ oz crème de violette
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until well-chilled.
Discard the ice water from the glass.
Double strain the cocktail into the chilled glass for a silky texture and smooth finish.
Garnish with a maraschino cherry dropped into the glass or a delicate lemon twist perched on the rim.
Color Control: Adjust the amount of crème de violette to control the shade of blue. A little goes a long way.
Sweeter Version: Increase the maraschino liqueur slightly for a richer, sweeter profile.
No Crème de Violette? The original recipe did not include it. Skip it for a lighter, more citrus-forward cocktail.
Dry Aviation: Use a dry gin to keep the drink crisp and clean.
Cherry Forward: Add a splash of cherry syrup or a bar spoon of maraschino cherry juice for added sweetness and a deeper color.
Appetizers: Smoked salmon canapés, lemon-garlic shrimp, or blue cheese crostini
Snacks: Almond biscotti, candied violets, or dark chocolate truffles
Dessert: Lemon tart, lavender shortbread, or vanilla panna cotta
0 servings