Let's dive into the enchanting world of the Aviation cocktail! This classic pre-Prohibition era drink is loved for its delicate floral notes, balanced tartness, and, when made correctly, its beautiful pale lavender hue reminiscent of the early days of flight.
Here's your comprehensive guide, complete with step-by-step images and answers to your burning questions:
Aviation Cocktail Ingredients
To make a classic Aviation, you'll need the following Aviation cocktail ingredients:
- Gin: The base spirit, London Dry style is traditionally preferred.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is crucial for brightness.
- Maraschino Liqueur: Provides a cherry and almond complexity.
- Crème de Violette: This is the key ingredient that imparts the floral aroma and the signature pale purple color. We'll discuss Aviation ingredients crème de violette or Creme Yvette later.
Aviation Cocktail Recipe ml
Here's the classic Aviation cocktail recipe ml:
- 60 ml (2 oz) Gin
- 22.5 ml (¾ oz) Fresh Lemon Juice
- 7.5 ml (¼ oz) Maraschino Liqueur (such as Luxardo)
- 7.5 ml (¼ oz) Crème de Violette
Step-by-Step Guide with Images:
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients and Tools
You'll need your gin, lemon juice, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, a cocktail shaker, ice, a jigger (for measuring), and a coupe or martini glass.
Step 2: Chill Your Glass
Fill your coupe or martini glass with ice or place it in the freezer to chill. This helps keep your cocktail cold.
Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Shaker
Pour the gin, fresh lemon juice, maraschino liqueur, and crème de violette into your cocktail shaker.
Step 4: Add Ice
Fill the shaker about two-thirds full with ice.
Step 5: Shake Well
Close the shaker tightly and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until well-chilled.
Step 6: Strain into the Chilled Glass
Discard the ice from your chilled coupe or martini glass. Strain the cocktail into the glass.
Step 7: Garnish (Optional)
Traditionally, the Aviation is not garnished. However, a brandied cherry can be added if desired.
Aviation Cocktail History
The Aviation cocktail history dates back to the early 20th century, around the time of World War I and the burgeoning interest in aviation. It is believed to have been created by Hugo Ensslin, the head bartender at the Hotel Wallick's in New York City. The first known published recipe appeared in Ensslin's 1916 book, "Recipes for Mixed Drinks." The name and the subtle purple hue were likely inspired by the color of the sky and the excitement surrounding early flight.
Aviation Cocktail Variations
While the classic recipe is beloved, there are some Aviation cocktail variations:
- Without Crème de Violette: Some early recipes and modern interpretations omit crème de violette. This results in a tarter drink without the floral notes and the signature color. It's still a delicious cocktail but lacks the true "Aviation" character.
- Increased Maraschino Liqueur: Some bartenders increase the amount of maraschino liqueur for a sweeter and more pronounced cherry/almond flavor.
- Different Gins: Experimenting with different styles of gin (e.g., Old Tom, Navy Strength) can subtly alter the flavor profile.
Aviation Cocktail Difford
Simon Difford, a renowned cocktail expert, includes the Aviation in his extensive collection. His recipe generally aligns with the classic proportions, emphasizing the importance of fresh, high-quality ingredients. You can often find detailed notes and variations on the Aviation cocktail Difford recipe on his website or in his books, providing valuable insights into achieving balance and flavor.
Aviation Cocktail Reddit
You can find lively discussions and variations of the Aviation cocktail reddit. Users often share their personal tweaks, preferred brands of ingredients, and troubleshooting tips for achieving the perfect drink. It's a great place to get real-world advice from fellow cocktail enthusiasts.
Aviation Ingredients Crème de Violette or Creme Yvette
This is a crucial point. Crème de Violette is a liqueur flavored with violet flowers, giving the Aviation its characteristic floral aroma and pale purple color. Creme Yvette is another violet liqueur, but it also incorporates notes of vanilla, berries, and spices. While Creme Yvette can be used as a substitute, it will result in a slightly different flavor profile, adding fruity and spicy undertones that are not traditional to the Aviation. For a classic Aviation experience, Crème de Violette is the preferred ingredient.
Answering Your Questions:
How to make the best Aviation?
To make the best Aviation:
- Use fresh ingredients: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is non-negotiable.
- Measure accurately: Use a jigger to ensure the correct balance of flavors.
- Don't overdo the Crème de Violette: A little goes a long way. Too much can make the drink taste soapy or perfume-y.
- Use a quality gin: A well-balanced London Dry gin provides a solid foundation.
- Shake well: Proper chilling and dilution are essential.
- Taste and adjust (if you dare): Once you've made it a few times, you might find slight adjustments to your preference.
What is the best mix for Aviation Gin?
Aviation American Gin, with its more floral and less juniper-forward profile compared to some London Dry gins, works beautifully in an Aviation cocktail. Its botanical blend complements the crème de violette and maraschino liqueur without overpowering them. However, "best mix" is subjective. Experiment with other quality London Dry gins to find your personal favorite. Some bartenders prefer a more traditional, juniper-heavy gin to stand up against the other flavors.
What is the best cocktail to make on a plane?
Making complex cocktails on a plane is challenging due to limited ingredients and tools. The best cocktails to make are usually simple two-ingredient drinks like a Gin & Tonic, Vodka Soda, or a simple Whiskey Soda. Many airlines also offer basic mixers that can be combined with their spirits. It's best to keep it straightforward when you're flying. The Aviation, with its need for multiple specific liqueurs, is not a practical choice for in-flight mixology.
Why is my Aviation cocktail not purple?
Your Aviation cocktail might not be purple for a few reasons:
- Insufficient Crème de Violette: You may not have used enough of the liqueur. Remember, a little goes a long way, but you do need a sufficient amount to impart the color.
- Low-Quality or Old Crème de Violette: The color in some older or lower-quality bottles might be less vibrant.
- Incorrect Proportions: If you used too much lemon juice or gin relative to the crème de violette, the pale purple hue might be diluted or overpowered.
- Using Creme Yvette: Creme Yvette has a reddish-purple hue and won't produce the same delicate lavender as crème de violette.
- It should be a pale lavender: Don't expect a deep purple drink. The classic Aviation has a very subtle, pale violet or lavender tint.
Enjoy crafting and sipping your own Aviation cocktail! It's a delightful piece of cocktail history in a glass.
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