Aviation

Aviation

Alessandro Scire Calabrisotto

 

The Aviation: A Floral and Elegant Classic

Brief Introduction

The Aviation is a delicate and sophisticated gin cocktail with a striking pale lavender hue. Combining gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and fresh lemon juice, this drink is both floral and citrusy, offering a beautifully balanced taste. Its elegant presentation and unique flavor profile make it a favorite among classic cocktail enthusiasts.

History of the Aviation

The Aviation was first crafted in the early 20th century, during the golden age of pre-Prohibition cocktails. The recipe is credited to Hugo Ensslin, the head bartender at the Hotel Wallick in New York City, who published the drink in his 1916 book Recipes for Mixed Drinks.

Ensslin’s original recipe called for gin, lemon juice, maraschino liqueur, and crème de violette, giving the drink its signature pale blue-purple tint. The name “Aviation” is believed to have been inspired by the burgeoning fascination with flight in the early 1900s, as the Wright brothers' invention had made aviation a thrilling and modern concept. The drink’s light and ethereal appearance matched the excitement and elegance associated with air travel at the time.

However, during Prohibition and the mid-20th century, crème de violette became difficult to find, leading many bartenders to omit it from the recipe. This altered the Aviation’s flavor and appearance, making it a more straightforward gin sour rather than a floral masterpiece. As a result, many mid-century cocktail books, including the influential Savoy Cocktail Book of 1930, featured a version without crème de violette.

In the early 2000s, as the craft cocktail movement gained momentum, bartenders sought to revive forgotten classics. The resurgence of interest in vintage recipes led to the rediscovery of the original Aviation, and with crème de violette becoming available again, the cocktail returned to its former glory. Today, the Aviation is celebrated as an example of early 20th-century mixology, offering a delicate yet complex drinking experience that pays homage to its storied past.

Recipe: How to Make an Aviation

The Aviation is a carefully balanced cocktail that requires precise measurements to achieve its signature taste. Here’s the classic recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 60 ml (2 oz) Gin

  • 15 ml (0.5 oz) Fresh Lemon Juice

  • 15 ml (0.5 oz) Maraschino Liqueur

  • 7.5 ml (0.25 oz) Crème de Violette

  • Garnish: Luxardo Cherry or Lemon Twist

Instructions:

  1. Combine Ingredients: Add gin, lemon juice, maraschino liqueur, and crème de violette to a shaker filled with ice.

  2. Shake: Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds until well-chilled.

  3. Strain: Double strain into a chilled coupe glass.

  4. Garnish: Top with a Luxardo cherry or a twist of lemon for an elegant finish.

Tips for Perfection:

  • Use a dry gin with botanical notes to complement the floral and citrus flavors.

  • Be precise with crème de violette; too much can overpower the drink.

  • Shake well to achieve a silky texture and well-integrated flavors.

Additional Recommendations

Variations:

  • Classic Aviation (No Crème de Violette): If you prefer a simpler version, omit the crème de violette to create the version commonly served in mid-20th-century cocktail books.

  • Aviation Royale: Top with sparkling wine for an effervescent twist.

  • Lavender Aviation: Infuse the gin with dried lavender for an extra floral element.

Pairings:

The Aviation’s floral and citrusy profile pairs well with light and elegant dishes. Try it with:

  • Seafood: The drink’s acidity enhances fresh oysters or grilled shrimp.

  • Cheese Boards: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese complement its floral notes.

  • Berry Desserts: Pair with blueberry tart or lemon mousse for a complementary flavor experience.

Presentation:

  • Serve in a chilled coupe glass to highlight its beautiful pale lavender color.

  • Use a Luxardo cherry for a classic garnish, or opt for an edible flower for a more modern aesthetic.

  • Ensure proper lighting when serving—the drink’s stunning hue is part of its charm.

Curiosity: A Fun Fact About the Aviation

Despite its association with early aviation, the drink had nearly disappeared from bars for decades due to the scarcity of crème de violette. It wasn’t until the craft cocktail renaissance of the 21st century that bartenders began seeking out historical recipes, leading to the liqueur’s revival and the Aviation’s return to prominence.

Sources


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