A couple years ago we opened a door in Portland that forever changed our outlook on cocktails. 

Tucked into a strip of unassuming businesses on the dreary streets of East Portland is Angel Face. Stepping across the threshold, is like stepping into another realm. Somewhere intimate, romantic, and magical. Candle light flickers up the hand painted wallpaper, people are tucked into whatever small nook is available, and behind the horseshoe marble bar is a fleet of knowledgeable women prepared to serve you a cocktail you’ll not soon forget.

This was where I was introduced to the Aviation. During our first visit to Angel Face, I asked for something with gin, some citrus, and floral. They came back with a nick and nora glass full of a mysterious glowy purple elixir and I knew I would never be the same. 

An Aviation is the perfect balance of everything for someone that loves gin and and anything floral. A base of gin, a splash of creme de violette, a swig of lemon juice, and some maraschino cherry liqueur to gently sweeten everything. 

Not long after, we started learning more about crafting our own cocktails. As much as we love going out, we have a bank account that is less appreciative - and making your own cocktails is a fraction of the cost! The Aviation is one of the cocktails both the hubs and myself were eager to master, and while the talented women of Angel Face still make it better, we’re pretty pleased with our results! 

During all of our cocktail mania, I started experimenting with a cocktail that’s like a sister to the Aviation. Kind of like Lindsey Lohan in Parent Trap, estranged twins that look alike but with some contrary personalities. I call it the Violet Tide - and I hope you’ll enjoy it as much as I do!

Violet Tide Cocktail

Makes 1

Ingredients:

1 egg white, beaten

1 ¾ ounces gin

¾ ounce lime juice

½ ounce creme de violette 

½ ounce maraschino liqueur  

*optional garnish: dried cornflowers (pictured), lime peel, violet or other edible flower

Instructions:

Add all ingredients to a shaker, and dry shake (which means, NO ice). 

Then add ice to shaker and shake again, until it’s nice and really really cold! You’ll know when you’re there, because you don’t think you’ll ever feel anything in your finger tips again. 

Strain into a glass! I used a coupe glass, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand! 

Enjoy, cheers!