If you’re a fan of floral and sweet cocktails, you’ve probably come across crème de violette. This liqueur made from violet petals is a favorite among mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts alike, adding a unique flavor and beautiful hue to any drink.
Crème de violette is a sweet and floral liqueur that has been used in cocktails for over a century. This vibrant purple-blue liqueur has a delicate and subtle flavor that adds a unique dimension to any drink. Today we’ll explore the history and origin of crème de violette, how it’s made, and some of the most popular cocktails that feature this delicious liqueur. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a curious beginner, it is a versatile and exciting ingredient to experiment with.
What is Crème de Violette?
Crème de violette is a sweet, floral liqueur that’s made from the petals of violet flowers. The liqueur has a deep blue-purple color and a distinct floral aroma and flavor. It’s an ingredient in the Aviation cocktail and can also be used in a variety of other drinks, from simple spritzers to complex and layered cocktails.
Where Does It Come From?
Crème de violette has been around for a long time, with roots in Europe dating back to the 19th century. At that time, it was common for liqueurs to be made from various fruits, herbs, and flowers, and the violet flower was a popular ingredient in many of these liqueurs.
The process of making this floral liqueur involves steeping the petals of the violet flower in a neutral spirit, such as vodka, for several days to extract the flavor and color. The resulting infusion is then mixed with sugar to create a sweet liqueur that is both fragrant and flavorful.
While crème de violette was initially popular in France, it quickly spread to other parts of Europe and eventually made its way to the United States. In the early 20th century, it became a key ingredient in a number of classic cocktails, including the Aviation, which was created in 1916.
Crème de violette fell out of favor for a while, but it has recently made a comeback, thanks in part to the cocktail revival of the past few years. Bartenders and home mixologists alike have rediscovered the beauty and versatility of this lovely liqueur.
The 10 Best Crème de Violette Cocktails
Are you ready to try some this lovely liqueur in some purple drinks? Here are 10 gorgeous options:
1. Aviation Cocktail
The Aviation cocktail is a classic drink that was first created over a century ago. It’s a sweet and sour cocktail made with gin, maraschino liqueur, lemon juice, and crème de violette. The drink has a beautiful blue-purple color and a delicate floral aroma. This gorgeous purple cocktail is a real showstopper and a great conversation topic at get togethers.
2. Blue Moon Drink
This Blue Moon cocktail is a variation of the classic Blue Moon cocktail. In addition to the traditional ingredients of gin and lemon juice it also includes a splash of crème de violette. The result is a sweet and tangy cocktail with a lovely floral aroma.
3. Third Eye Cocktail
The Third Eye cocktail is a fizzy drink that features crème de violette along with gin, citrus juice, and club soda. The crème de violette gives the cocktail a purple color and a subtle floral aroma, while the gin adds a slightly herbal flavor. The finished drink is garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
4. Princess Violette Cocktail
Along with the crème de violette, the Princes Violette also includes champagne and lemon juice. The finished drink is garnished with a lemon peel for an elegant and simple cocktail that can be easily doubled.
5. Final Say Cocktail
The Final Say cocktail is a variation of the Last Word cocktail. It first appeared in The Official Downton Abbey Cocktail book and calls for crème de violette liqueur in place of the Green Chartreuse. It also includes lime juice, and gin. The lime juice adds a touch of tartness, while the gin adds a slight kick. The Final Say cocktail is a sophisticated and complex drink worthy of the Dowager Countess Violet Crawley, who was the inspiration for this drink.
6. Empress Wild Violet
This gorgeous cocktail is a variation of the Empress Gin Sour drink. Along with the crème de violette, it also includes Empress 1908 gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and peach liqueur. The floral liqueur complements the botanical notes of the gin for a sophisticated drink.
7. Butterfly Martini
The Butterfly Martini includes elderflower liqueur, hibiscus rose syrup and simple syrup in addition to violette liqueur. The end result is a lovely purple cocktail with an intensely floral flavor. You can garnish this drink with an edible orchid for even more floral aroma.
8. Violette 75
The Violette 75 is a sparkling and refreshing cocktail that’s a riff on the French 75. In addition to crème de violette, it also includes gin, citurs juice, simple syrup, and brut champagne. The simple syrup balances out the flavors with a touch of sweetness, while the champagne adds a bubbly and effervescent finish. The Violette 75 is a sophisticated and celebratory drink that’s perfect for toasting at a special occasion or ringing in the New Year.
9. Water Lily Cocktail
The Water Lily cocktail is a sweet and floral drink. It also includes gin, Triple sec, and lemon juice. You can garnish this gorgeous cocktail with a lemon peel for an extra burst of color.
10. Fleur Collins
If you’re looking for a refreshing and floral cocktail, the Fleur Collins is the perfect drink for you. It is a variation of the Tom Collins and is ideal of scorching summer days. Elderflower liqueur adds even more floral notes, which are complimented by a garnish of edible flowers.
