Aviation
I’m always looking to expand my gin drink repertoire because a man can’t survive on martinis alone – I’ve tried. It’s good to spread your wings and branch out to try something new. The Aviation is just such a drink. Classic. Light. Refreshing. Slightly floral. Just imagine yourself on a PanAm flight somewhere exotic from one of their Art Deco posters.
There’s some debate about the recipe; specifically it’s about whether it has crème de violette or not. Since the International Bartenders Association (IBA) leaves it out, that’s good enough for me. Plus, this drink is already floral enough without it.
As for gin, I used Aviation Gin. To my estimation, for the Aviation cocktail, you couldn’t make a wiser choice. You’ll probably see a few different maraschino liqueurs available (not maraschino cherry juice, that you pour down the drain and pretend you never saw it), I like Luxardo.
Make yourself this drink, enjoy it on a warm day and picture yourself on that flight.
- 4 oz. gin
- 1½ oz. maraschino liqueur
- 1½ oz. lemon juice
- Glass Type: Cocktail
- Shake the gin, maraschino and lemon juice together with ice.
- Strain it into a chilled cocktail glass and serve ungarnished.
- Unless you want to drop in a maraschino cherry, I won’t hold it against you.