Crème de violette

Crème de violette is a liqueur made from violet flowers. It is known for its distinctive purple color and floral aroma. This liqueur is often used in cocktails and has a long history in the world of mixology.

History

Crème de violette has its origins in the 19th century, particularly in France. It was a popular ingredient in many classic cocktails during the early 20th century. However, its popularity waned during the mid-20th century, and it became difficult to find. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in vintage cocktails, leading to a renewed availability of crème de violette.

Production

The production of crème de violette involves macerating violet flowers in a neutral spirit, which extracts the color and flavor of the flowers. The mixture is then sweetened with sugar to create the final liqueur. The quality and flavor of crème de violette can vary depending on the type of violets used and the production methods.

Uses in Cocktails

Crème de violette is a key ingredient in several classic cocktails, including the Aviation. This cocktail, which also includes gin, maraschino liqueur, and lemon juice, is known for its pale blue color, which is achieved by adding a small amount of crème de violette. Other cocktails that feature crème de violette include the Blue Moon and the Violet Fizz.

Flavor Profile

Crème de violette has a sweet, floral flavor with a hint of earthiness. The violet aroma is prominent, making it a unique addition to cocktails. The liqueur's sweetness can vary, but it is generally balanced by the floral notes.

Availability

While crème de violette was once difficult to find, it is now more widely available due to the resurgence of interest in classic cocktails. Several brands produce crème de violette, each with its own unique flavor profile.

See Also

• Liqueur
• Cocktail
• Aviation (cocktail)
• Gin
• Maraschino liqueur
• Lemon juice