Name: Aviation
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 2 ounces London dry gin; ¾ ounce lemon juice , plus lemon twist for garnishing; ½ ounce crème de violette; ¼ ounce maraschino liqueur; ¼ ounce recipe; Cocktail cherries for garnishing

Why This Recipe Works

Sleek and sophisticated, and with a touch of the unknown, Aviation is a gin sour that has been softened by maraschino liqueur, with crème de violette adding a floral undertone. We tried a version without the violette, but tasters were unimpressed. The key to balance in this cocktail is the interplay between its alcoholic strength and its delicate floral quality. All the recipes we saw called for a very small amount of the violette, as many warned of the risks of adding too much and having the drink veer into hand-soap territory. However, the violette was hard for tasters to discern. We found that we could balance additional liqueur with slightly less sweetener and more lemon juice to preserve its distinct character without it becoming overwhelming.

Before You Begin

You can substitute ¼ ounce Lavender Liqueur for the crème de violette if desired, but increase the Simple Syrup to ½ ounce. A lemon twist makes a nice additional garnish, if desired.

Instructions

Add 2 ounces gin, ¾ ounce lemon juice, ½ ounce crème de violette, ¼ ounce maraschino liqueur, and ¼ ounce simple syrup to cocktail shaker, then fill with ice. Shake mixture until fully combined and well chilled, about 15 seconds. Double-strain cocktail into chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with lemon twist and cocktail cherries. Serve.