Cid’s Airship Aviation – A Smoky Take on a Classic
Cid Highwind and the Spirit of the Skies
Rough around the edges but a dreamer at heart, Cid Highwind is Final Fantasy VII’s resident pilot, engineer, and all-around hardass. Chain-smoking, tea-chugging, and always ready with a colorful insult, Cid’s grit hides an undying determination to touch the stars. His character is a mix of raw strength, mechanical genius, and a deep (if reluctant) loyalty to his friends.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using these links.
This cocktail is part of our Final Fantasy VII cocktail series, where we craft drinks inspired by iconic characters. From Barret’s Arm Cannon (a fiery, spirit-forward punch) to Aerith’s Bloom (a floral and elegant sip), each drink embodies the essence of its namesake. And now, we turn our attention to the man who made the Highwind soar.
The Concept – A Smoked Aviation Fit for a Pilot
The Aviation is a classic gin cocktail with floral and citrus elements, evoking the open sky. But Cid isn’t one for delicate violet liqueurs—so we grounded the drink in smoky, herbal depth while keeping its soaring brightness.
How It Ties to Cid:
- Smoky Montelobos Mezcal represents Cid’s ever-present cigarette and the grit of an engineer working with grease and gears.
- Aviation Gin keeps a nod to the original cocktail’s name and its connection to flight.
- Chamomile Honey Syrup replaces crème de violette, tying in Cid’s love of tea with a rich, floral sweetness.
- Luxardo Maraschino retains the Aviation’s classic nutty, cherry-like undertones, balancing the drink’s sharp citrus edge.
- A Lemon Twist keeps things crisp and clean, like the sky after takeoff.
Glassware – The Viski Coupe
This drink deserves a proper vessel, and the Viski Coupe Glass delivers. The sleek, refined shape enhances both aroma and presentation, while its vintage aesthetic feels like something you’d find in a high-class lounge aboard the Highwind.
How to Make It
Making Cid’s Airship Aviation is straightforward but rewarding.
- Prepare Your Chamomile Honey Syrup – Brew strong chamomile tea, mix with honey in a 1:1 ratio, and let cool.
- Shake It Up – Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice and shake for about 12-15 seconds.
- Double Strain – Use a fine mesh strainer to ensure a silky, refined texture.
- Serve in a Chilled Viski Coupe – This enhances both the visual and tasting experience.
- Garnish with a Lemon Twist – The final touch for a clean, bright aroma.
Tasting Notes
- First Sip: Bright lemon and herbal depth from chamomile, with the nutty sweetness of Luxardo.
- Midway Through: The gin’s botanicals shine, complemented by mezcal’s earthy smokiness.
- Finish: A lingering warmth from honey, mezcal, and tea, leaving an aftertaste as bold as Cid’s attitude.
Final Thoughts
Cid Highwind is a legend, and Cid’s Airship Aviation captures his essence in a glass—bold, smoky, and built to soar. Whether you’re reminiscing about your first playthrough of Final Fantasy VII or just in the mood for a damn good drink, this is the cocktail for you.
Raise a glass, take a sip, and dream big. 🚀
Cid’s Airship Aviation
A smoky and floral twist on the Aviation, blending mezcal, chamomile, and citrus in a skyward tribute to Cid Highwind.
Ingredients
- 1 oz Aviation Gin
- 0.5 oz Montelobos Mezcal
- 0.5 oz Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur
- 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz chamomile honey syrup (strong brewed chamomile tea + honey)
- Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Shake well until chilled, about 12-15 seconds.
- Double strain into a chilled Viski coupe glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
