Elevated Elegance: The 'Aviation'

IBA Cocktail

Fancy something that once vanished from bar menus only to come back in a swirl of soft purple? The Aviation soared into popularity thanks to its playful combination of Gin, Lemon Juice, and a captivating floral note. This tipple delivers a subtle aromatic bouquet that feels both nostalgic and novel. Let’s uncover how a century-old masterpiece, almost lost to time, still manages to fascinate modern palates.

Elevated Elegance: The 'Aviation'

The Aviation is a dreamy pour that brims with a delicate balance of tart, sweet, and floral nuances. Its core flavour arises from the juniper undertones of Gin, tangy brightness from freshly squeezed Lemon Juice, and the subtle sweetness of Maraschino Liqueur. Yet the real showstopper is Crème de Violette, lending that gentle pastel hue many enthusiasts describe as sky-like or even slightly lavender.

Its appearance is undeniably intriguing. When held up to the light, the pale lilac shimmer can be both surprising and utterly charming. Once garnished with a thin slice of Lemon peel or a Maraschino Cherry, the cocktail strikes a picture-perfect contrast in the glass.

Taste-wise, expect a crisp, citrus-forward zing blended with a faint floral whisper, all smoothed out by the almond-like dimension of Maraschino Liqueur. The experience is neither overly sweet nor overtly bitter. Instead, it toes the line between fruity tartness and aromatic refinement.

Beyond its captivating look, The Aviation has found a steady following in upscale bars. Whether sipped as an aperitif or as a refined evening indulgence, it stands out from the moment you spot its hue. Interestingly, it’s officially recognised by the IBA, celebrating its classic status and ensuring it remains in the repertoire of bartending professionals.

In today's world, with an abundance of well-crafted spirits and liqueurs, The Aviation has soared back into the spotlight, and for excellent reason.

a floral burst of Gin and tangy citrus under a shimmering lavender glow.

Did you know that Aviation...

... all but disappeared for decades due to the scarcity of Crème de Violette, leaving bartenders unable to recreate its signature colour?

Who invented this cocktail

The Aviation was invented by Hugo R. Ensslin at the Hotel Wallick in New York City around 1916, aiming for a refined Gin libation with a sky-hued flourish.

The origin and history of "Aviation"

Like many early 20th-century gems, The Aviation came from a quest to create something distinctly new for patrons craving bright yet sophisticated flavours. Hugo R. Ensslin, a German-born bartender working at the Hotel Wallick in New York City, first documented the recipe in his 1916 book, ensuring it had a permanent written legacy. This novel cocktail featured Gin, Lemon Juice, Maraschino Liqueur, and an elusive ingredient, Crème de Violette, which provided a faint floral note and that signature soft lavender tinge.

By the end of the 1910s, bartenders keen on innovative drinks started experimenting with the recipe. However, the fast-approaching Prohibition era in the United States overshadowed many cocktails, including The Aviation, as spirits became difficult to procure legally. While Gin survived through clandestine means, rarer liqueurs like Crème de Violette vanished from many markets.

Complicating matters further, the 1930 publication of Harry Craddock’s The Savoy Cocktail Book showcased a version of The Aviation that omitted Crème de Violette, possibly due to scarcity or personal preference. This deviation paved the way for a generation of bartenders who knew the drink only in its pale, lemony iteration.

It wasn’t until the late 20th century that curious cocktail enthusiasts, aided by revived interest in historic recipes, rediscovered the "lost" ingredient. When Crème de Violette resurfaced on the market in the early 2000s, the original Aviation returned to well-earned acclaim, enchanting modern sippers with its once-forgotten floral glow. Today, it’s hailed as a beloved classic, a testament to how unique flavours and colours can shape a drink’s place in history.

Get Our Free Cocktail App

Start making cocktails at home within minutes!

download mishela app from android
download mishela app from ios

Bartender Tips for making the perfect "Aviation"

To make the perfect Aviation, try these tips:
  • Opt for a crisp, high-quality Gin with vibrant botanical notes to enhance the floral essence.
  • Freshly squeezed Lemon Juice is non-negotiable, as it delivers the bright, zesty layer essential to the drink’s balance.
  • Seek out a well-regarded Crème de Violette brand, some can be sweeter, while others are more floral. Adjust your proportions accordingly.
  • Shake the mixture thoroughly with ice for optimal aeration before straining into your chilled glass.
  • Garnish with a Maraschino Cherry or a swath of Lemon peel for a refined contrast that complements the lavender tint.

Aviation recipe

Prep: 3 minTotal: 5 min

Ingredients

  • 60 ml GIN
  • 15 ml MARASCHINO LIQUEUR
  • 30 ml FRESH LEMON JUICE
  • 15 ml CRÈME DE VIOLETTE
  • 2 oz GIN
  • ½ oz MARASCHINO LIQUEUR
  • 1 oz FRESH LEMON JUICE
  • ½ oz CRÈME DE VIOLETTE

Garnish

  • LEMON ZEST
  • COCKTAIL CHERRIES

Preparation

  1. Add all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice
  2. Shake well until it feels cold
  3. Strain into the glass
  4. Garnish and serve

Nutritional Info

  • Calories:187 kcal
  • Alcohol units:3.2 units
  • ABV (Alcohol By Volume)~26%

Dietary Info

VeganVegetarianGluten-freeDairy-free
Country of origin: Germany

"Aviation" Variations

  • Moonlight – Often swaps Crème de Violette for Cointreau, resulting in a citrus-inflected version with a paler shade.
  • Blue Moon – Another historical Gin creation that features Crème Yvette instead of Crème de Violette, imparting fruity undertones.
  • Lavender Aviation – Incorporates a lavender-infused syrup or muddled lavender blossoms for extra floral intensity.
  • Ensslin’s Whisper – A tribute version accentuating maraschino flavours through an added dash of cherry liqueur.
  • Craddock’s Take – The lemon-hued option that excludes Crème de Violette, perfect for those who prefer a simpler gin-and-citrus combo.

Relish every sip of The Aviation as an enchanting link to the early days of cocktail innovation. Its floral undertones and gentle tartness can still surprise even the most seasoned Gin aficionado. This century-old libation truly proves that some classics never lose their ability to captivate.

Leave a comment

All comments are moderated before appearing on the site and will be reviewed within 24 hours.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Current Comments: 4

Bartender_Pro
Dec 4, 2023
Luxardo gives too much almond - try Maraska maraschino for cleaner cherry notes. Meyer lemon adds interesting complexity.
Maria_R
Aug 18, 2023
Try Creme Yvette for a more complex violet profile. Adjust lemon based on gin choice - navy strength needs more acid balance.
GinGenius99
May 8, 2023
Reducing maraschino to 10ml prevents overwhelming the delicate violet. Empress gin adds stunning color depth without affecting taste.
Luke_Pearse
Feb 1, 2023
Less is more with the Crème de Violette - 10ml is plenty. Tanqueray 10 provides perfect citrus notes to complement the maraschino.