Classic Aviation Cocktail: Gin, Violet & Lemon
The Aviation cocktail is a classic concoction that soared into popularity in the early 20th century. Its creation is attributed to Hugo Ensslin, a bartender from the iconic Hotel Wallick in New York City. This elevated elixir blends floral, citrus, and herbal notes into a drink that is both aromatic and refreshing, perfect for sophisticated gatherings.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker (Boston or cobbler style)
- Hawthorne strainer or fine mesh strainer
- Jigger or small measuring cup
- Coupe glass or cocktail glass
- Citrus juicer or reamer
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin 60ml — use a London dry style for best results
- ½ oz maraschino liqueur 15ml, such as Luxardo
- ½ oz lemon juice 15ml, freshly squeezed, about half a lemon
- ⅓ oz crème de violette 10ml
- 1 piece cocktail cherry for garnish, Luxardo or Amarena style preferred
- 1 cup ice for shaking and pre-chilling the glass
Instructions
- Chill a cocktail glass by filling it with ice water while you prepare the drink.1 cup ice
- In a cocktail shaker, combine 60 ml (2 oz) of gin, 15 ml (½ oz) of maraschino liqueur, 15 ml (½ oz) of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 10 ml (⅓ oz) of crème de violette.2 oz gin, ½ oz maraschino liqueur, ½ oz lemon juice, ⅓ oz crème de violette
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels uncomfortably cold and frost forms on the metal. This ensures proper dilution and integration of the crème de violette.1 cup ice
- Empty the ice water from the chilled cocktail glass, then strain the mixed drink into the glass.
- Garnish with a cocktail cherry, dropping it into the bottom of the glass. Optionally, express a small strip of lemon peel over the surface for extra aroma, then discard.1 piece cocktail cherry
Notes
Storage: The Aviation should be served immediately after shaking. It does not store or freeze well — dilution and oxidation flatten the flavour within minutes.
Make-Ahead: Pre-batch the gin, maraschino, and crème de violette in a sealed jar and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add fresh lemon juice only when ready to shake.
Substitutions: If crème de violette is unavailable, try elderflower liqueur (such as St-Germain) for a different but complementary floral note. The colour will change from purple to pale gold.
Pro Tip: Shake for a full 15–20 seconds until the shaker is painfully cold. This dilution softens the tartness and integrates the violet flavour properly.
Glassware: A chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass is ideal. Pre-chill with ice water while you measure your ingredients.
Nutrition
Serving: 1servingCalories: 214kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 0.1gFat: 0.04gSaturated Fat: 0.01gSodium: 13mgPotassium: 17mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 3IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 11mgIron: 0.1mg
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