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Aviation cocktail
Alcoholic Cocktail Cocktail glass Medium

Aviation

The Aviation cocktail is a classic gin-based drink that combines the floral notes of maraschino liqueur with the tartness of fresh lemon juice. Its pale blue hue and refreshing taste make it a delightful choice for any occasion.

3 Ingredients
5 min Prep Time
Cocktail glass Glass
Chilled Best Served
sour fruity refreshing

Ingredients

  • Gin spirit 45 ml (1.5 oz)
  • Lemon juice juice 15 ml (0.5 oz)
  • Maraschino liqueur liqueur 15 ml (0.5 oz)

How to Make a Aviation

Add all ingredients into cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well and strain into cocktail glass. Garnish with a cherry.

Bartender Tip

💡

Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor and balance.

History of the Aviation

The Aviation cocktail is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, with its first known recipe appearing in Hugo Ensslin's 1916 book, 'Recipes for Mixed Drinks.' It gained popularity during the Prohibition era and has remained a staple in cocktail culture ever since.

About the Aviation

The Aviation is a cocktail that belongs to the alcoholic family of cocktails. It is traditionally prepared with Gin, lemon juice, maraschino liqueur and served in a Cocktail glass.

Best enjoyed at parties, during celebrations, at brunch.

As with all alcoholic beverages, please enjoy this cocktail responsibly.

IBA Classic

Did You Know?

The Aviation cocktail was one of the first cocktails to incorporate a fruit liqueur, showcasing the creativity of mixologists in the early 1900s.

Aviation Variations

Aviation No. 2 This variation uses crème de violette to give the cocktail a more pronounced floral aroma and a deeper blue color. Swap: Replace maraschino liqueur with crème de violette.
Aviation Sour This version adds egg white for a frothy texture and a richer mouthfeel, making it smoother. Swap: Add egg white to the original recipe.

Pairs Well With

grilled chicken salad shrimp tacos lemon tart

Quick Facts

~180
Calories
Medium
Strength
5 min
Prep Time

Common Mistake

A common mistake is not shaking the ingredients well enough, which can result in a less refreshing and diluted drink.

Frequently Asked Questions

What gives the Aviation cocktail its unique color?

The Aviation cocktail's signature pale blue hue is primarily due to the use of maraschino liqueur, which has a subtle floral quality. When combined with gin and lemon juice, the mixture creates a visually appealing drink that stands out.

Can I substitute the maraschino liqueur in an Aviation cocktail?

While maraschino liqueur is a key ingredient in the Aviation cocktail, you can experiment with other fruit liqueurs like elderflower or orange liqueur. However, this will alter the flavor profile significantly, so it's best to use maraschino for the classic taste.

Is the Aviation cocktail served with any specific garnish?

Yes, the Aviation cocktail is traditionally garnished with a cherry, which complements its flavors and adds a touch of elegance. Some variations may also use a lemon twist for added aroma.

What type of gin is best for making an Aviation cocktail?

Aviation cocktails are best made with a high-quality, floral-forward gin that enhances the drink's overall character. Brands like Tanqueray or Beefeater are popular choices, but feel free to explore craft gins for unique flavor profiles.

How did the Aviation cocktail get its name?

The Aviation cocktail is believed to have been named after the early 20th-century fascination with flight and aviation. The drink was first published in 1916, coinciding with the rise of aviation as a popular and exciting new frontier.

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