Air Travel

The Aviation Cocktail: A Timeless Journey in a Glass

The Aviation is more than just a cocktail; it's a sip of history. Born during the golden age of cocktails in the early 20th century, its name evokes the glamour and daring of early flight. With its signature ethereal lavender hue, derived from the elusive crème de violette, it offers a uniquely complex and floral profile that stands apart from other gin-based classics.

A Note on Ingredients: The Soul of the Cocktail

The magic of the Aviation lies in the harmony of its four key components. Understanding each one is the first step to mastering this drink.

• Gin (2 oz): As the backbone, a London Dry Gin is traditional. Its bold juniper and botanical notes provide a crisp, clean canvas that supports the other, more delicate flavors.
• Fresh Lemon Juice (3/4 oz): Never use bottled juice here. The bright, sharp acidity of freshly squeezed lemon is crucial for cutting through the sweetness and providing a vibrant lift.
• Maraschino Liqueur (1/2 oz): This is not the syrup from a jar of maraschino cherries. Maraschino liqueur is a clear, sophisticated liqueur made from Marasca cherries. It contributes a deep, nutty, and complex cherry flavor rather than simple sweetness.
• Crème de Violette (1/4 oz): This is the defining ingredient that gives the Aviation its color and name. Use it sparingly; it is potent. A quarter-ounce provides a subtle floral aroma and a beautiful sky-blue tint, reminiscent of the "aviation" sky at dusk. Without it, the cocktail is simply a gin sour with maraschino.

Equipment You'll Need

• Cocktail Shaker
• Fine Mesh Strainer (Hawthorne strainer is ideal)
• Julep Strainer (for the "double strain")
• Coupe or Martini Glass

Step-by-Step Crafting Guide

1. The Chill: Begin by placing your coupe glass in the freezer to chill. A frosty glass ensures your cocktail stays perfectly cold from the first elegant sip to the last.
2. The Build: Fill your cocktail shaker two-thirds full with fresh, high-quality ice. Pour the gin, fresh lemon juice, maraschino liqueur, and crème de violette directly over the ice. The order of pouring is not critical, but precision in measurement is.
3. The Shake: Secure the lid tightly and shake with vigor and purpose for a full 15-20 seconds. You are not just chilling the liquid; you are diluting it to the perfect level and aerating it to create a silky, slightly textured mouthfeel.
4. The Double Strain: This is a professional step that elevates the cocktail's texture. Place your fine mesh strainer over your pre-chilled coupe glass. Pour the contents of the shaker through both the shaker's built-in strainer and the fine mesh strainer. This captures any small ice chips or pulp, resulting in a crystal-clear, supremely smooth drink.
5. The Garnish: For the final touch, gently drop a single high-quality sour cherry or a brandied cherry into the glass. Avoid the bright red, artificially colored maraschino cherries, as their cloying sweetness will clash with the cocktail's delicate balance. The garnish should complement, not overpower.

Why the "Double Strain"?

Double straining, or "fine straining," is particularly important for cocktails containing fresh citrus juice. It ensures no small pulp or fragmented ice chips make it into your final drink, guaranteeing a flawlessly smooth and professional texture that is visually pristine.

Savor the Experience

The finished Aviation is a masterpiece of balance. The initial aroma is a subtle bouquet of violets. The first sip reveals the crisp juniper of the gin, immediately followed by the bright citrus, which then mellows into the complex cherry and floral notes. It is a sophisticated, nuanced cocktail that rewards a slow and appreciative palate. Enjoy your journey into cocktail history.