The Enchanting Aviation: A Cocktail Soaring with Flavor

The Aviation is a delightful pre-Prohibition era cocktail that takes flight with its light, floral, and refreshing taste. This gin-based drink features the intriguing addition of crème de violette, a violet liqueur, that lends a beautiful lavender hue and a subtle floral note.

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces gin (ideally a dry gin with floral or citrus botanicals)
• ¾ ounce fresh lemon juice
• ½ ounce maraschino liqueur
• ¼ ounce crème de violette liqueur
• Luxardo maraschino cherry for garnish (optional)

Instructions (makes 1 drink):

1. A chilled coupe glass is ideal for this elegant cocktail. Place it in the freezer for 15 minutes or fill it with ice and water for a few minutes. Discard the ice and water before building your drink.
2. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add the gin, lemon juice, maraschino liqueur, and crème de violette.
3. Secure the lid on your shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, until the drink is well chilled and diluted.
4. Double strain the Aviation cocktail into your chilled coupe glass to ensure a smooth texture and a delightful light purple color.
5. Add a Luxardo maraschino cherry for a classic presentation and a touch of sweetness.

Tips:

• Choose a dry gin that emphasizes floral or citrus botanicals to complement the crème de violette.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a necessary brightness to the drink. Bottled juice can be used in a pinch, but the taste won't be as vibrant.
• Maraschino liqueur adds a touch of sweetness. You can adjust the amount to your preference.
• If you can't find crème de violette, you can substitute with a violet syrup or a few drops of violet extract. However, the color and floral essence will be less pronounced.
• The original Aviation recipe called for a lemon peel garnish. Feel free to add one for a historical touch, but be aware that the oils from the peel can add bitterness.

Enjoy this enchanting Aviation cocktail! With its perfect balance of sweet, tart, and floral notes, it's a delightful and refreshing drink that will take your taste buds on a journey.