Berry Aviation

The Berry Aviation is a fresh take on the classic Aviation cocktail, giving it a fruity twist that feels bright and modern. Instead of using crème de violette, this version highlights raspberry purée, which adds a sweet yet slightly tart flavor and a vibrant color. The base of gin and maraschino liqueur remains, keeping the connection to the original, while lemon juice lifts the drink with crisp citrus notes. The result is a smooth and balanced cocktail with a berry-forward flavor that stands out without being too heavy. Light, colorful, and refreshing, the Berry Aviation is perfect for spring or summer gatherings.

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Tasting Notes

The Berry Aviation is a fruit-forward twist on a classic. Gin gives it a dry, clean base, while maraschino liqueur adds light almond and cherry notes. Lemon juice brings tartness that keeps it sharp, and the raspberry purée rounds everything out with sweet berry flavor. It’s bright, balanced, and slightly tangy, with a smooth finish. The raspberry adds depth without making the drink overly sweet. Whether you garnish with fresh berries or a lemon twist, the aroma and flavor stay crisp and refreshing from the first sip to the last.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a cocktail shaker, jigger, citrus press, fine mesh strainer, and a bar spoon. A chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass is ideal it holds the smaller volume well and shows off the drink’s color. The shaker helps blend the raspberry purée smoothly with the other ingredients, and double straining keeps the texture clean. If your purée is thick or has seeds, consider blending it beforehand. Chill your glass in advance to keep the cocktail cooler and more consistent in texture.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz gin
• 0.5 oz maraschino liqueur
• 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
• 0.5 oz raspberry purée
• Raspberries for garnish

Instructions

• Add gin, maraschino liqueur, lemon juice, and raspberry purée to a shaker filled with ice.
• Shake well until chilled.
• Strain into a coupe or cocktail glass.
• Garnish with fresh raspberries.

Pro Tips

• Use fresh raspberries or a strained purée for best flavor.
• Chill your glass ahead of time to keep the drink cold.
• Shake hard to fully incorporate the purée.
• Use a fine mesh strainer to remove any seeds or solids.
• Try a gin with floral or citrus notes for extra lift.
• Adjust lemon juice slightly if your purée is tart or sweet.
• Garnish with a lemon twist if you want to boost the citrus aroma.

When to Serve

The Berry Aviation is perfect for spring and summer, or anytime you’re serving a bright, berry-forward cocktail. It fits well at brunch, garden parties, or as a pre-dinner drink. Its lighter profile makes it good for daytime sipping or casual gatherings. Because it looks and tastes fresh, it also works for showers, date nights, or small celebratory events. If you’re mixing for a crowd, the color and aroma help it stand out, even in a short glass. Serve when you want something a little playful but still classic.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Gin: Bombay Sapphire, Tanqueray, or Aviation Gin
• Maraschino Liqueur: Luxardo or Maraska
• Raspberry Purée: Fresh homemade, or brands like Funkin or Perfect Purée
• Lemon Juice: Always fresh-squeezed for best results
• Garnish: Fresh raspberries or a lemon twist, depending on your mood

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