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Aviation Gin. The name itself evokes images of classic cocktails, sophisticated evenings, and a smooth, clean spirit. But how do you truly experience all that this American dry gin has to offer? This guide delves into the best ways to drink Aviation Gin, exploring everything from classic cocktails to creative pairings, ensuring you get the most out of every drop.
Understanding Aviation Gin: What Makes it Unique?
Aviation Gin distinguishes itself from traditional London Dry gins with its unique botanical profile. Instead of the juniper-forward flavor profile often associated with gin, Aviation leans towards a more balanced and nuanced experience.
Its botanicals include juniper (of course), cardamom, coriander, French lavender, anise seed, sarsaparilla, and dried orange peel. This careful blend creates a complex yet approachable gin, perfect for both seasoned gin enthusiasts and those new to the spirit. The lavender and orange peel contribute to a softer, floral aroma, while the cardamom and coriander add a touch of spice.
The History Behind the Bottle
Aviation Gin wasn’t always the global phenomenon it is today. It was created in 2006 by bartender Ryan Magarian and distiller Christian Krogstad in Portland, Oregon. Their goal was to create a gin that was less juniper-heavy and more versatile in cocktails. Actor Ryan Reynolds’ acquisition of the brand in 2018 further propelled it into the spotlight, but the quality and unique flavor profile of the gin are what have truly cemented its place in the market.
The Art of Sipping: Drinking Aviation Gin Neat or On the Rocks
While Aviation Gin shines in cocktails, it can also be enjoyed neat or on the rocks, allowing you to fully appreciate its subtle complexities. This is a great option for those who want to truly understand the spirit’s individual notes.
Neat: A Pure Experience
To drink Aviation Gin neat, pour a small amount (about 2 ounces) into a stemmed glass, such as a Glencairn glass or a small wine glass. Allow the gin to sit for a minute or two, allowing the aromas to open up. Take small sips, focusing on the different flavors as they unfold on your palate. Pay attention to the initial burst of juniper, followed by the floral notes of lavender and the subtle spice of cardamom.
On the Rocks: Chilled Perfection
For a slightly chilled experience, pour Aviation Gin over a few large ice cubes in a rocks glass. The ice will mellow the spirit slightly, making it even smoother and more refreshing. Be careful not to over-chill, as this can mask some of the more delicate flavors. Swirl the gin gently around the ice to release its aromas and enjoy. Use quality ice, as poor quality ice can impart unwanted flavors.
Classic Aviation Gin Cocktails: A Timeless Trio
Aviation Gin’s balanced flavor profile makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of cocktails. However, there are three classic gin cocktails that particularly showcase its qualities: the Aviation, the Gin & Tonic, and the Martini.
The Aviation Cocktail: A Celestial Creation
The Aviation cocktail, from which the gin derives its name, is a true classic. It combines Aviation Gin with maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and lemon juice. The crème de violette gives the cocktail its signature pale blue hue and floral aroma, perfectly complementing the gin’s lavender notes.
To make an Aviation cocktail:
Combine 2 ounces of Aviation Gin, 0.75 ounces of lemon juice, 0.5 ounces of maraschino liqueur, and 0.25 ounces of crème de violette in a shaker with ice.
Shake well until chilled.
Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
Garnish with a lemon twist or a maraschino cherry.
The Gin & Tonic: Simple Elegance
The Gin & Tonic is a simple yet incredibly satisfying cocktail. The key to a great Gin & Tonic is using high-quality tonic water and the right garnish. Aviation Gin’s balanced flavor profile allows it to shine through the tonic, creating a refreshing and flavorful drink.
To make a Gin & Tonic:
Fill a highball glass with ice.
Pour in 2 ounces of Aviation Gin.
Top with 4-6 ounces of quality tonic water.
Garnish with a lime wedge or wheel. For added complexity, consider adding a sprig of rosemary or a few juniper berries.
The Martini: A Refined Choice
The Martini is perhaps the most iconic gin cocktail, and Aviation Gin makes a particularly excellent Martini. The key to a great Martini is using high-quality vermouth and finding the right gin-to-vermouth ratio to suit your taste.
To make a Martini:
Combine 2-3 ounces of Aviation Gin with 0.5-1 ounce of dry vermouth in a mixing glass with ice.
Stir well until chilled.
Strain into a chilled martini glass.
Garnish with an olive or a lemon twist. Experiment with different vermouths to find the perfect pairing for Aviation Gin.
Beyond the Classics: Creative Cocktails with Aviation Gin
Aviation Gin’s versatility extends far beyond the classic cocktails. Its balanced flavor profile makes it a great base for a wide range of creative drinks. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own signature Aviation Gin cocktails.
The Aviation Southside: A Minty Twist
The Southside is a refreshing cocktail similar to a Mojito, but made with gin instead of rum. Aviation Gin works beautifully in this cocktail, its floral notes complementing the mint and lime.
To make an Aviation Southside:
Muddle 6-8 mint leaves with 0.75 ounces of lime juice and 0.5 ounces of simple syrup in a shaker.
Add 2 ounces of Aviation Gin and ice.
Shake well until chilled.
Double strain into a chilled coupe glass.
Garnish with a mint sprig.
The French 75: Bubbly Delight
The French 75 is a sophisticated and celebratory cocktail that combines gin with lemon juice, simple syrup, and Champagne. Aviation Gin’s balanced flavor profile makes it a great choice for this classic drink.
To make a French 75:
Combine 1.5 ounces of Aviation Gin, 0.75 ounces of lemon juice, and 0.5 ounces of simple syrup in a shaker with ice.
Shake well until chilled.
Strain into a chilled flute glass.
Top with Champagne.
Garnish with a lemon twist.
The Negroni: A Bitter Symphony
For those who enjoy a more bitter and complex cocktail, the Negroni is an excellent choice. This classic Italian cocktail combines gin with Campari and sweet vermouth. Aviation Gin’s balanced flavor profile helps to tame the bitterness of the Campari, creating a more harmonious drink.
To make a Negroni:
Combine 1 ounce of Aviation Gin, 1 ounce of Campari, and 1 ounce of sweet vermouth in a rocks glass with ice.
Stir well until chilled.
Garnish with an orange peel.
Pairing Aviation Gin with Food: A Culinary Adventure
Aviation Gin’s unique botanical profile makes it a surprisingly versatile spirit for food pairings. Its floral and citrus notes can complement a wide range of dishes, from seafood to salads to desserts.
Seafood Sensations
Aviation Gin pairs particularly well with seafood. Its clean, crisp flavor can cut through the richness of oily fish like salmon or tuna. Consider serving an Aviation Gin Martini with a plate of oysters or a Gin & Tonic with grilled shrimp. The gin’s botanicals also complement the briny flavors of shellfish.
Salads and Light Bites
Aviation Gin’s floral and citrus notes make it a great accompaniment to salads and light bites. Consider serving a Gin Rickey (gin, lime juice, and soda water) with a Caprese salad or a cucumber sandwich. The gin’s refreshing qualities will enhance the flavors of the fresh ingredients.
Sweet Endings
While gin might not be the first spirit that comes to mind for dessert pairings, Aviation Gin can work surprisingly well with certain sweets. Its lavender and orange notes can complement desserts that feature citrus or floral flavors. Consider serving an Aviation Gin cocktail with a lemon tart or a lavender-infused panna cotta.
The Perfect Serve: Essential Tips for Enjoying Aviation Gin
To truly appreciate Aviation Gin, it’s important to pay attention to the details. From the glassware you use to the quality of your ice, every element contributes to the overall experience.
Glassware Matters
The type of glass you use can significantly impact the aroma and flavor of your drink. For neat pours, a stemmed glass like a Glencairn or a small wine glass is ideal. For cocktails, choose glassware that complements the drink. Martini glasses, coupe glasses, and highball glasses are all good options.
Ice, Ice Baby
Use high-quality ice made from filtered water. Poor quality ice can impart unwanted flavors that will detract from the taste of the gin. Large ice cubes or spheres are ideal for cocktails, as they melt more slowly and dilute the drink less.
Garnish with Grace
Garnishes add visual appeal and enhance the aroma of your drink. Use fresh, high-quality garnishes and don’t be afraid to experiment with different options. Lemon twists, lime wedges, olive, sprigs of rosemary, and cucumber ribbons are all great choices.
Experiment and Enjoy
The most important thing is to experiment and find what you enjoy. Don’t be afraid to try new cocktails, pairings, and serving suggestions. The world of gin is vast and varied, so have fun exploring all that it has to offer. Remember, the best way to drink Aviation Gin is the way you like it best.
Storing Aviation Gin: Keeping it Fresh
Proper storage is essential for preserving the quality and flavor of Aviation Gin.
- Store your bottle of Aviation Gin in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Ensure the bottle is tightly sealed to prevent oxidation.
- Once opened, it’s best to consume Aviation Gin within a year for optimal flavor.
Enjoy the journey of discovering your personal preferences with Aviation Gin. With a little experimentation, you’ll unlock the sky of flavor this gin has to offer.
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What makes Aviation Gin different from other gins?
Aviation Gin distinguishes itself through its New Western style, departing from the juniper-forward profile characteristic of London Dry gins. Instead, Aviation emphasizes a more balanced botanical composition, allowing notes of lavender, cardamom, and sarsaparilla to shine alongside the traditional juniper, resulting in a smoother, more floral and subtly spicy flavor profile. This difference makes it more approachable for those who might find traditional gin too pungent.
This unique botanical balance contributes to Aviation Gin’s versatility in cocktails. Its less assertive juniper presence allows other ingredients to play a more prominent role, enabling a wider range of creative and balanced drinks. This makes it a favorite among bartenders and mixologists who seek a gin that complements rather than overpowers other flavors.
How should Aviation Gin be properly tasted to appreciate its nuances?
To fully appreciate Aviation Gin’s complex flavors, begin by nosing the gin neat in a tulip-shaped glass. This allows you to capture the delicate aromas of lavender, citrus, and spice before the harsher alcohol vapors. Gently swirl the glass to release these aromas and take small, deliberate sniffs, paying attention to the individual botanicals you can detect.
Next, taste the gin neat in small sips, allowing it to coat your palate. Note the initial sweetness followed by the developing spice and floral notes. Consider the mouthfeel – is it smooth or sharp? Once you’ve assessed the neat profile, add a small amount of ice to chill the gin and slightly dilute it. This can further open up the aromas and soften the alcohol burn, revealing even more subtle flavors.
What are some classic cocktails that are especially well-suited for Aviation Gin?
Aviation Gin shines in cocktails where its balanced botanical profile can truly excel. The Aviation cocktail itself, a mix of gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and lemon juice, is an obvious choice, showcasing the gin’s floral notes in perfect harmony with the other ingredients. A classic Gin & Tonic is also elevated by Aviation, its smoother profile complementing the bitterness of the tonic water.
Furthermore, Aviation Gin works exceptionally well in variations of the Negroni and Martini. In a Negroni, its softer juniper allows the Campari and sweet vermouth to blend more seamlessly. In a Martini, its floral notes add a touch of elegance without overpowering the dry vermouth, creating a sophisticated and well-balanced drink.
What food pairings complement the flavors of Aviation Gin?
Aviation Gin’s subtle yet complex profile lends itself well to a variety of food pairings. Its floral and slightly spicy notes make it a good match for dishes with herbal or citrus elements, such as salads with vinaigrette dressings or grilled fish with lemon. The gin’s smoothness also allows it to pair well with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese.
Additionally, consider pairing Aviation Gin with foods that have a slight sweetness or spice. Dishes with a touch of ginger, cardamom, or lavender can highlight the gin’s botanical composition. Light desserts like lemon tarts or lavender-infused shortbread can also provide a harmonious pairing, enhancing both the gin and the food’s flavor profiles.
How does the distillation process impact the flavor of Aviation Gin?
Aviation Gin’s distinctive flavor profile is significantly influenced by its careful distillation process. The gin is typically distilled in small batches using a copper pot still, a method that allows for greater control over the extraction of flavors from the various botanicals. This process is essential for achieving the gin’s signature smoothness and balanced botanical expression.
Furthermore, the precise order in which the botanicals are introduced to the still and the specific cuts taken during the distillation process play crucial roles. By carefully controlling these variables, distillers can selectively extract desirable flavor compounds while minimizing harsh or undesirable elements, ultimately contributing to Aviation Gin’s refined and approachable character.
Can Aviation Gin be used in non-alcoholic cocktails?
While Aviation Gin is inherently an alcoholic beverage, its distinct botanical profile can inspire flavorful non-alcoholic cocktail creations. By using gin alternatives or carefully selected combinations of herbal infusions, citrus juices, and aromatic bitters, you can mimic the nuanced flavors of Aviation Gin without the alcohol content.
Consider incorporating elements like juniper berries (in small quantities and properly extracted), lavender syrup, cardamom bitters, and citrus zest into your non-alcoholic mixtures. These ingredients can replicate the key flavor components of Aviation Gin, allowing you to enjoy a sophisticated and complex alcohol-free cocktail experience.
Where can I purchase Aviation Gin, and what is its typical price range?
Aviation Gin is widely available and can be found in most well-stocked liquor stores, grocery stores with liquor sections, and online retailers. Its broad distribution ensures accessibility for consumers across various regions. Availability may vary slightly depending on local regulations and retailer selections.
The typical price range for a 750ml bottle of Aviation Gin generally falls between $25 and $35 USD. Prices can fluctuate based on location, promotions, and retailer markups. Keep an eye out for sales and discounts, especially during holidays and special events.