Friday, April 23, 2010

Drink of the Week: The Aviatrix

Credit for this drink goes completely to the lovely Jen Hess of Last Night's Dinner. Last Night's Dinner is not a recipe site, so like many of her readers and fans, I was thrilled when she started posting recipes on Food52.

This cocktail is a take on the Aviation. The Aviation is a classic drink and you'll find it on many a cocktail list. However, by adding Lillet Blanc the the formula, Jen has tweaked a classic and crafted a new drink that deserves to stand on its own. (I have to confess that I prefer it to an Aviation.) Her original post can be found here.

Lillet Blanc may not be a spirit you're familiar with, but it's a worthwhile addition to the liquor cabinet. It's a fortified wine, like vermouth, and is frequently enjoyed chilled as an aperitif. Lillet can sometimes be found in a red wine version (Lillet Rouge), which is also delicious and worth seeking out.

The Aviatrix
Combine in an iced mixing glass or the bottom half of a shaker:
  • 2 ounces gin (I used Plymouth)
  • 1 ounce Lillet Blanc
  • 1 barspoon crème de violette
  • 2 dashes lemon bitters
Stir until very cold. Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with a lemon twist (the twist makes a huge difference, it's not an optional garnish).

2 comments:

Jennifer Hess said...

I'm so glad you liked this drink! I am a huge fan of a well-made Aviation, but I do like this more delicate spin, too (and yes, I'm biased ;D)

tracey said...

It's only Monday and I could use one of these right now! Never tried the original, but will try this one for sure!

Blog Widget by LinkWithin