Hey there, Austin Carter here from Beyond The Bayou Blog! I’ve got a real treat for you cocktail lovers today – The Classic Aviation cocktail. Now, I’ll be honest, this beautiful purple drink wasn’t really on my radar until a couple years ago when I was out with some friends in New Orleans.
We stopped into this swanky little speakeasy-style bar, and I noticed the most vibrant cocktail on the menu – the aviation. On a whim, I ordered it and was blown away by the perfect balance of spirit, sour, and herbal flavors. It instantly became one of my new favorites.
Since then, I’ve tinkered around with different recipes to craft what I think is the perfect version. This cocktail is easy to whip up but tastes super sophisticated. It’s great for impressing guests at your next dinner party or just treating yourself to something special after a long day.
Whether you’re an aviation veteran or trying on this drink for the first time, I think you’re going to love this recipe.
Aviation Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Ice
- Strainer
- Cocktail glass
Ingredients
- 2 ounces gin
- 1/2 ounce maraschino liqueur
- 1/4 ounce creme de violette
- 3/4 ounce lemon juice freshly squeezed
- Garnish: brandied cherry
Instructions
- Add 2 ounces of gin to a cocktail shaker.
- Pour in 1/2 ounce of maraschino liqueur.
- Add 1/4 ounce of creme de violette.
- Squeeze and add 3/4 ounce of fresh lemon juice.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake until well-chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a brandied cherry.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Nutrition
Variations I Will Suggest!
- Low-Carb Aviation: For a low-carb version, swap maraschino liqueur with a sugar-free option or cherry extract. Add stevia or erythritol to taste. Enjoy a delicious, low-carb, low-sugar drink.
- Aviation Royale: Add a splash of champagne or prosecco to your Aviation Cocktail for a luxurious touch.
- Elderflower Aviation: Use elderflower liqueur, such as St-Germain, instead of crème de violette for a delightful color and flavor.
- Rose Aviation: Replace crème de violette with rose liqueur or a few drops of rose water for a romantic twist.
- Spiced Aviation: Infuse your gin with cardamom, star anise, or cinnamon for a flavorful and spiced variation.
What to Serve with Aviation Cocktail?
