The Aviatrix

It is not iconic like Amelia Earhart, but it can be every bit as satisfying as a brief air flight.  The Aviatrix is a cocktail inspired by The Tar Pit restaurant’s “Aviator” cocktail.  The Aviator debuted in the desert at the 2011 Palm Desert Food & Wine event and garnered a lot of attention and accolades.  I was promised the recipe but never received it.  But the mixologist did disclose the ingredients:  Gabriel Boudier Saffron Infused Gin and Luxardo Il Maraschino Originale.

The saffron infused gin is micro distilled in Dijon, France and is rich in exotic botanicals plus saffron which gives it a spicy character.  While the color and fragrance are quite unique, I find it a little harsh if used as an aperitif.  And for me, the Luxardo Maraschino Originale is a little medicinal in aroma and taste if used as a liqueur.  But together they form a colorful, sophisticated cocktail that is quite different from other specialty cocktails served today.  It is said that “well behaved women never make history,” so think of The Aviatrix as a bit of a bad girl that is manly enough for all.   

After some experimentation, I have settled on the following recipe for what I call “The Aviatrix.”

Serves 1

2 ounces Gabriel Boudier Saffron Infused Gin

Place liquid ingredients in cocktail shaker, fill with ice.  Shake and pour into ice cold martini glass.

Santé!

(As a side note, if you are a Coachella Valley resident and looking for the ingredients, Jensen’s carries the Gabriel Boudier Saffron Infused Gin and Bristol Farms carries the Luxardo Il Maraschino Originale.)