32 Aviation Cocktails (Easy Recipes)
The Aviation is a classic gin cocktail and truly timeless! Here are the best Aviation Cocktail recipes to try: The Classic Aviation Cocktail, Aviator #1, Takumi’s, and more.
When it comes to Aviation Cocktails–these variations will give you a new perspective. Hopefully, they will inspire you to have more ‘what if’ moments when creating your own Aviation cocktails at home.
Aviation Cocktails to Make Right Now
And now, the best Aviation cocktails to try. Cheers!
Related: 32 Gin Martini Cocktails
1. Classic Aviation Cocktail
First up on my list is the classic Aviation Cocktail. It is gin-forward, with a floral, sweet, and tart taste. Crème de violette — also known as liqueur de violette–gives it its iconic pale lavender color.
Easy Recipe: In a cocktail shaker, combine ice and 2 oz gin, 1/4 ounce maraschino liqueur, 1/4 ounce crème de violette, 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice. Shake well and strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a maraschino cherry or a lemon twist.
2. Anders Erickson Aviation Cocktail
And now…in alphabetical order–next on my list is the Anders Erickson Aviation. With classy ingredients, I think the Anders Erickson Aviation Cocktail is an exquisite take on the classic.
Easy Recipe: Combine 2 oz. (60 ml) Journeyman Distillery Bilberry Black Hearts Gin, 1/4 oz. (7.5 ml) Rothman and Winter Crème de Violette, 1/4 oz. (7.5 ml) Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur, and 1/2 oz. (15 ml) Fresh lemon juice in a shaker with ice, then shake well and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a cocktail cherry and lemon zest.
3. Arte De Volar
The Arte De Volar is a riff on the Aviation and elevate your cocktail experience with Tequila instead of the classic gin–it’s a modern twist on the classic.
Easy Recipe: Combine 2 oz Patrón Silver, 0.5 oz Maraschino liqueur, 0.5 oz Lime juice, 0.25 oz Giffard Creme de Violette, and 0.25 oz Monin Lavender Syrup in a mixing tin with ice. Shake and strain up into a coupe, then garnish with a lime peel.
4. Aviation Gin Fizz
A frothy and refreshing cocktail, the Aviation Gin Fizz is a delightful blend of Empress 1908 Gin, crème de violette, orgeat, and lemon juice.
Easy Recipe: Combine 1 ½ ounces Empress 1908 gin, 1 ounce lemon juice, ¼ ounce crème de violette, ¼ ounce orgeat, and 1 egg white in a cocktail shaker. Dry shake for 20 seconds, then add ice and continue shaking for another 20 seconds. Strain into a coupe glass, garnish with a maraschino cherry.
5. Aviator #1 Cocktail
A classic cocktail with a modern twist, the Aviator #1 is a delightful combination of gin, maraschino liqueur, lemon juice, pasteurized egg white, and crème de cassis.
Easy Recipe: Shake 2 oz Hayman’s London dry gin, 1/2 oz Luxardo maraschino liqueur, 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1/2 oz pasteurized egg white (or 3 dashes Fee Brothers Fee Foam cocktail foamer) with ice, then fine strain into a chilled martini glass. Pour 1/4 oz Joseph Cartron Double Creme de Cassis de Bourgogne into the center of the drink, allowing it to sink. Garnish with a lemon zest twist.
6. Blueberration
A delightful twist on the classic Aviation, the Blueberry Aviation cocktail features muddled blueberries resulting in a fruity take on the classic.
Easy Recipe: Shake 3 oz of gin infused with blueberries, 1 oz of maraschino, ½ oz of crème de violette, and the juice from half a lemon. Pour into a cocktail glass and garnish with a lemon twist and cocktail cherry (optional)
7. Blue Aviation Cocktail
I got this Blue Aviation Cocktail recipe from glasgowfoodelicious.com. I’d use rice paper for the little airplane for a fully edible experience.
Easy Recipe: Combine 1.5 oz of gin, ½ oz of Maraschino liqueur, ½ oz of Crème de Violette, ¾ oz of lemon juice, and 1 egg white in a shaker, dry shake vigorously, then shake again with ice until cold. Strain into a coupe glass and optionally garnish with dried cornflowers or a paper plane.
8. Clean Aviation Cocktail
The Clean Aviation is an intriguing variation of the classic Aviation.
Easy Recipe: In a shaker, combine 15 ml Luxardo Maraschino liqueur, 7.5 ml Crème de violette liqueur, 15 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice, a dash of La Fée Parisienne absinthe, and ice, then shake well and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
9. Cloudy Aviation Cocktail
A delightful and frothy twist on the classic Aviation cocktail, featuring a fluffy egg white foam and elegant flavors.
Easy Recipe: Combine 50ml Hendricks Gin, 15ml St Germain, 15ml Edmond Liqueur De Voilette, 15ml Lemon juice, and the white of one egg in a shaker and shake vigorously without ice (dry shake). Then add ice and shake again. Strain into a chilled coupe glass with a maraschino cherry, add a few drops of Peychaud’s Aromatic Cocktail Bitters, and enjoy the fluffy, cloud-like cocktail.
10. Coconut Aviation Cocktail
The Coconut Aviation cocktail: a tropical twist on the classic, blending coconut-infused gin, cherry brandy, lime juice, and a touch of crème de violette for a refreshing and exotic libation.
Easy Recipe: Shake 2 ounces of coconut-infused gin, 1/2 ounce of cherry brandy, 1/2 ounce of lime juice, and a splash of crème de violette with ice, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a cherry.
11. Deviation Cocktail
I recommend serving this Aviation Cocktail riff as an after dinner cocktail–it makes a delightful dessert!
Easy Recipe: Shake 2 shots of gin, 1 shot of Creme de Violette, 1 shot maraschino liquor, 2 shots lemon juice, and 2 egg whites with ice, until foamy. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
12. Dry Aviation Cocktail
Elevate your cocktail experience with the sophisticated and refreshing Dry Aviation, a modern take on a classic libation.
Easy Recipe: Combine 2 oz. Gin New Amsterdam, .25 oz. Maraschino, .25 oz. Fresh lemon juice, and 1 tsp. Crème de Violette Rothman & Winter over ice in a cocktail shaker and shake thoroughly. Strain into a chilled cocktail coupe and garnish with a Luxardo maraschino cherry.
13. Empress Aviation Cocktail
Experience the regal and vibrant flavors of the Empress Aviation cocktail, a modern twist on a classic libation fit for royalty.
Easy Recipe: Shake 2 ounces of Empress 1908 Gin, 1/2 ounce of Maraschino liqueur, 3/4 ounce of fresh lemon juice, and 1/4 ounce of Crème de Violette with ice, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a cherry.
14. Himbrimi
The Aviation cocktail was created during the early age of airplanes.
Easy Recipe: Add 45ml Himbrimi Winterbird gin, 15ml Maraschino liqueur, 7ml creme de violette and 15ml lemon juice to a shaker with ice and shake until well-chilled. Strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a Lemon peel.
15. Hirschon Aviation Cocktail
I am fond of the use of lime juice, instead of lemon juice in this Aviation cocktail recipe.
Easy Recipe: Shake 2 oz Finnish Napue gin, 3/8 oz Luxardo maraschino liqueur, 3/4 oz fresh lime juice, 3/8 oz Rothman & Winter Crème de Violette violet liqueur, 1 rosemary sprig with ice. Garnish with a cocktail cherry.
16. Hugo Ensslin Aviation Cocktail
The Aviation Cocktail was created by Hugo Ensslin, the head bartender at the Hotel Wallick in New York, in the early twentieth century. Step back in time and savor the classic elegance of the Hugo Ensslin Aviation cocktail, a timeless libation with a touch of history in every sip.
Easy Recipe: Combine 45ml Aviation Gin, 15ml fresh squeezed lemon juice, 15ml Maraschino Liqueur, and 15ml Heering Cherry Liqueur in a shaker with ice, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
17. Frozen Aviation Cocktail
Chill out with the Frozen Aviation cocktail, a frosty and refreshing take on a classic libation.
Easy Recipe: Blend 50mls Tanqueray London Dry Gin, 25mls lemon juice, 10mls maraschino, 10mls crème de violette, and 15mls sugar syrup with crushed ice for 15-20 seconds. Pour into a glass, garnish with a lemon zest and a cherry.
18. IBA Aviation Cocktail
Step into the world of classic cocktails with the IBA Aviation, a timeless libation that’s sure to elevate your spirits.
Easy Recipe: Combine 45 ml Gin, 15 ml Maraschino Luxardo, 15 ml Fresh Lemon Juice, and 1 Bar Spoon Crème de Violette in a cocktail shaker. Shake with cracked ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Optionally, garnish with a Maraschino Cherry.
19. Improved Aviation Cocktail
Elevate your cocktail experience with the Improved Aviation Cocktail.
Easy Recipe: Combine 2 oz Plymouth Gin, 3/4 oz lime juice, 1/2 oz Maraska Maraschino Liqueur, 1/4 oz The Bitter Truth Violet Liqueur, 1/4 oz Bénédictine, 3 drops Miracle Mile Sour Cherry Bitters, and 2 drops Regan’s Orange Bitters No. 6 in a shaker with ice, shake well, then strain into a chilled coupe.
20. Kentucky Flyer
Take your taste buds on a smooth and spirited journey with this whiskey Aviation, a riff on the classic cocktail.
Easy Recipe: Combine 2 ounces rye whiskey, 3/4 ounce Luxardo maraschino liqueur, and 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice in a shaker with ice, then shake until well-chilled. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass or coupe, and garnish with 2 brandied cherries and a mint sprig speared on a pick.
21. Larios OTR Aviation Cocktail
Elevate your cocktail experience with the Larios, a lighter tasting juniper and citrus gin. Classic flavors of dry cherry, lemon, and a hint of violet.
Easy Recipe: Shake 2 oz of Larios Gin, 1/4 oz of maraschino liqueur, 1/4 ounce of crème de violette, and 1/2 ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice with ice, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a cherry.
22. Lavender Aviation Cocktail
A delightful floral twist on the classic Aviation, the Lavender Aviation cocktail features lavender simple syrup for a refreshing and aromatic libation
Lavender Syrup
- Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 1/4 cup culinary lavender buds in a saucepan on medium-high heat.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 3-5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and steep for 20 minutes, then strain and discard lavender buds.
- Store the syrup in a mason jar in the fridge until ready to use.
Easy Recipe: Add ice to a cocktail shaker and pour in 2 oz gin, 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1/2 oz lavender syrup. Cover and shake well, then double strain into a tumbler glass. Top up with tonic water and garnish with a lemon wheel, a few lavender sprigs, and a pinch of lavender buds (optional).
23. Maiden Flight
Take flight with the Vodka Aviation, a modern spin on a classic cocktail that’s smooth, sophisticated, and simply delightful.
Easy Recipe: Combine 2 oz Barr Hill Vodka, 0.5 oz Maraschino Liqueur, 0.25 oz Crème de Violette, and 1 oz lemon in a mixing tin. Add ice, shake for 15 seconds, then strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a lemon peel or cherry.
24. Mezcal Aviation Cocktail
Embrace the smoky allure of the Mezcal Aviation, a contemporary twist on a classic libation that’s sure to captivate your senses.
Easy Recipe: In a shaker, combine 2 ounces of mezcal, 1/2 ounce of maraschino liqueur, 1/4 ounce of crème de violette, and 3/4 ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice with ice, shake well, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a cherry.
25. Modern Aviation Cocktail
This Modern Aviation recipe uses Empress 1908 gin, made with butterfly pea extract – giving it a gorgeous indigo shade. When the gin is mixed with citrus, the colour turns a lighter pinky-purple hue.
Easy Recipe: Shake 2 oz Empress 1908 Gin, 1/2 oz Maraschino liqueur, 1/4 oz Crème de violette, 3/4 oz lemon juice, and 2 dashes Cherry Masala Chai bitters with ice. Strain into a Nick and Nora glass, and garnish with a cherry or lemon twist.
26. Mystic Sky Aviation
The Mystic Sky Aviation bright and zesty mix of gin, maraschino, lemon, and crème de violette with a hint of intrigue.
Easy Recipe: Shake 2 oz of gin, 3/4 oz of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 2 tsps of maraschino liqueur with ice. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. For the Biplane Version, add a teaspoon of crème de violette, garnish with a cherry, and serve.
27. Perfect Aviation Cocktail
This Aviation Cocktails is very, very purple thanks to Crème de Violette and Empress 1908 gin. It’s fancy!
Easy Recipe: Shake ice and 2½ oz Empress 1908 gin, ¾ oz lemon juice, ½ oz Luxardo maraschino cherry liqueur, ½ oz. Crème de Violette. Pour into a couple glass and garnish with a Luxardo marschino cherry and lemon wheel.
28. Pure Aviation Cocktail
Experience perfection in a glass with the Pure Aviation, a flawless blend of classic flavors and modern sophistication.
Easy Recipe: Combine 2 ounces of Avión Reserva Cristalino, 1/2 ounce of Maraschino Liqueur, 1/2 ounce of Lemon Juice, and 1/4 ounce of Violette Liqueur in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds, strain into a Nick and Nora glass, and garnish with a lemon twist or cherry.
29. Sky Blue Aviation Cocktail
Deep blue Illusionist Gin is the foundation for the Sky Blue Aviation cocktail. Some believe crème de violette isn’t traditional, so they’ve reverted to using maraschino liqueur alone without the signature blue hue.
Easy Recipe: Combine 5cl of Illusionist Dry Gin, 1.5cl of Maraschino liqueur, 0.5cl of Créme de Violette, and 2cl of freshly squeezed lemon juice in a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds, then strain into a coupette.
30. Takumi’s Aviation Cocktail
A modern classic with a delightful blend of flavors, Takumi’s Aviation is a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast.
Easy Recipe: Stir 1 1/2 ounces Tanqueray No. TEN gin, 1/2 ounce Giffard Marasquin maraschino liqueur, 1/8 ounce Marie Brizard Parfait Amour liqueur, and 1/3 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice in a shaker with ice, then fine-strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a lemon twist.
Related: 12 Best Japanese Whiskey Cocktails
31. The Perfume-y Aviation Cocktail
A modern take on the classic Aviation, The Perfume-y Aviation cocktail is a floral and aromatic libation featuring gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Easy Recipe: Combine 2 oz. London dry gin, ¾ oz. fresh lemon juice, ½ oz. maraschino liqueur, and ¼ oz. crème de violette. Shake with ice cubes, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a brandied cherry.
32. Virgin Aviation Cocktail
This delightful non-alcoholic Aviation offers a good balance of sour and floral notes, making it a perfect beverage to share with others. Serve and enjoy your non-alcoholic Aviation mocktail!
Easy Recipe: In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine 2 ounces of Gin Alternative, 3/4 ounce of lemon juice, 1/2 ounce of maraschino cherry juice, and 1/4 ounce of lavender syrup (or crème de violette for a low-ABV version). Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients. Strain the mocktail into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with edible flowers.
Aviation Cocktail FAQs
Is the Aviation Cocktail the same as the Aviation Gin brand?
No, the aviation cocktail is not named after the celebrity Aviation gin brand. The Aviation Cocktail dates back to the pre-Prohibition era.
What does an Aviation Cocktail taste like?
Aviation is “gin-forward” and sweetened by crème de violette. The lemon balances the sharp gin and floral violette flavors.
When do I drink an Aviation Cocktail?
I like the Aviation as a spring cocktail, due to the floral notes. The stunning purple color is perfect for Easter. But I enjoy it during winter, as well.
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Thirsty for more? Try my 157 Cocktails That Start With T (+ Easy Recipes).
Did you mix any of these Aviation Cocktail recipes? Let me know how they turned out in the comments below!
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