About the Aviation cocktail

The Aviation is a stunning gin cocktail that dates back to the early 20th century. First published in Hugo Ensslin’s 1916 Recipes for Mixed Drinks, it quickly became a bartender favorite thanks to its crisp flavor and pale, sky-blue hue.

Its name and color are inspired by the excitement of early aviation — a nod to the thrill and elegance of flight in the pre–World War I era.

The drink blends gin, maraschino liqueur, lemon juice, and crème de violette for a balance of citrus, floral, and subtle cherry-almond notes.

Although crème de violette fell out of production for decades, its return in the early 2000s helped revive the Aviation, bringing it back to modern cocktail menus around the world.

Why the Aviation Stands Out

The Aviation cocktail recipe is bright, floral, and delicately sweet.

London Dry gin forms a crisp backbone, maraschino liqueur adds subtle nutty-cherry depth, lemon juice brings a tart lift, and crème de violette gives a soft floral aroma and the signature pale lavender hue.

It’s a cocktail that’s as beautiful to look at as it is to drink, making it perfect for special occasions or simply to impress.

Variations and Pairing Ideas

If you’d like to experiment, try:

• Omitting the crème de violette for a drier, more citrus-forward profile (as seen in some mid-century recipes)

• Using Old Tom gin for a slightly sweeter, rounder base

• Adding a lemon twist garnish for extra brightness

• Serving in a Nick & Nora glass for a vintage presentation

Pair it with delicate hors d’oeuvres, seafood canapés, or light desserts like lemon tarts and shortbread cookies.

Why the Aviation Endures

The Aviation has survived over a century because it combines romance, history, and great flavor in a single glass. It’s proof that a well-balanced cocktail can be both classic and playful.

Whether served at a rooftop bar or in your own kitchen, it’s sure to take your taste buds to new heights.