Aviation American Gin (1.75L)

 

Here’s a detailed, in-depth article (~3,000+ words) about Aviation American Gin (1.75 L) — covering its origin, production, tasting profile, popularity, common questions (“People Also Ask”), criticisms, and a concluding analysis.

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Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Origins & History
3. Why the 1.75 L Size Matters
4. Production & Botanical Recipe
5. Distillation & Proof Details
6. Tasting Profile (Aroma, Palate, Finish)
7. How to Serve & Use Aviation Gin (1.75 L)
8. Popular Cocktails Featuring Aviation
9. Distribution, Market Position & Brand Growth
10. Consumer Feedback & Controversies
11. People Also Ask — FAQ Section
12. Pros & Cons of the 1.75 L Bottle
13. Conclusion

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1. Introduction

Aviation American Gin is one of the most widely recognized craft gins in the U.S. Its 1.75 L (or “metric half gallon”) bottle is a popular format for both home use (especially for entertaining) and bars. This large size offers excellent value and reflects Aviation’s widespread adoption in both casual and more refined cocktail settings.

While much has been written about the 750 mL or 700 mL Aviation bottle, the 1.75 L version deserves special attention — because it’s not just “more of the same,” but a deliberate choice for volume, value, and repeated use. In this article, I unpack the story, craft, flavor, utility, and market role of Aviation Gin in the 1.75 L format.

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2. Origins & History

To understand Aviation Gin’s place in the spirits world — and why its 1.75 L bottle is significant — we should begin with its origin story.

• Aviation American Gin was first launched in 2006 in Portland, Oregon, by Christian Krogstad (a distiller) and Ryan Magarian (a bartender).
• It is produced by House Spirits Distillery, which originally began elsewhere in Oregon before consolidating operations in Portland.
• In 2016, the brand was sold to a distributor, Davos Brands, though production continued in Portland.
• Actor Ryan Reynolds later acquired a stake (in 2018), helping to raise the gin’s profile substantially.
• In August 2020, global beverage giant Diageo bought Aviation Gin for up to US$610 million, though Reynolds retained some ongoing interest.

This evolution — from small craft distillery to major-brand ownership — reflects Aviation’s success and broad appeal.

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3. Why the 1.75 L Size Matters

The 1.75 L (or “metric half-gallon”) size is quite common in the U.S. for liquor bottles, but it’s especially meaningful for a gin like Aviation. Here’s why:

1. Value: Buying in 1.75 L generally gives you a lower cost per milliliter compared to smaller 750 mL (or 700 mL) bottles. According to some retailers, the 1.75 L Aviation sells for about US$67.99 on Gopuff.
2. Entertaining: For cocktail-heavy events, a large bottle reduces the frequency of reorders and makes bar setup more efficient.
3. Consistency: Having a single large bottle means you’re less likely to see flavor variation from different batch numbers (if you stick to one bottle for a while).
4. Home Bar Efficiency: A 1.75 L bottle takes up more space, but for many it’s a “workhorse” gin — one used for G&Ts, martinis, and mixing.

Retailers also explicitly offer the 1.75 L format: for example, Liquor Boutique lists a 1.75 L bottle for US$54.99. Meanwhile, international sellers (e.g., in Poland) list the 1.75 L at 42% ABV.

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4. Production & Botanical Recipe

Aviation Gin’s character comes from its botanical recipe and how these botanicals are treated during production.

• Aviation uses seven botanicals: juniper, French lavender, sweet and bitter orange peel, cardamom, coriander, Indian sarsaparilla, and anise seed.
• These botanicals are macerated (i.e., steeped) in a neutral grain spirit for about 18 hours.
• The base spirit is a neutral grain spirit; some sources note a 100% rye grain neutral spirit, which gives a slightly different character than typical grain spirits.
• After maceration, the mixture is pumped into a 400-gallon pot still where it’s heated (via steam jackets) and distilled.
• During distillation, the first fraction (“heads”) is removed; distillers collect the “heart” (desired portion) and make cuts until they reach the tails. According to Elma Wine & Liquor, the “heart cut” comes off the still at about 142 proof.
• After distillation, the spirit is diluted with very pure water (notably from the Cascade mountain region, according to historical sources) to bring it down to its final proof.

This careful process ensures that the botanical flavors are well integrated and the final spirit is balanced.

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5. Distillation & Proof Details

Understanding the proof / alcohol content helps explain the mouthfeel and strength of the gin:

• Aviation American Gin is bottled at 84 proof, which corresponds to 42% ABV.
• Because the heart cut off the still comes at around 142 proof, there’s a significant dilution step.
• The combination of careful botanical maceration, pot-still distillation, and controlled dilution contributes to a spirit that’s strong enough for cocktails but smooth enough for sipping.

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6. Tasting Profile (Aroma, Palate, Finish)

Here’s a deep dive into what to expect when tasting the 1.75 L Aviation Gin — in practice, the larger size doesn’t change the recipe, so tasting notes are the same as the standard bottle.

Aroma (Nose):

• Bright, floral notes of lavender.
• Citrus zest from both sweet and bitter orange peel.
• Light juniper, but not overpowering. Many describe it as “soft juniper.”
• Spicy, warm notes: cardamom and coriander contribute to an aromatic complexity.
• A hint of anise / licorice from anise seed or sarsaparilla for some drinkers.

Palate (Taste):

• The gin is smooth and well-balanced, not overly “piney” or harsh.
• You’ll taste citrus peel (orange) clearly, giving a fresh brightness.
• There’s a warm spice: cardamom, coriander, and perhaps some cinnamon-like nuance (depending on batch) are present.
• Some sarsaparilla / root-like sweetness (from the Indian sarsaparilla botanical) gives an unusual root-beer-ish or vintage soda character.
• Anise seed contributes licorice / spicy aroma for certain palates.

Finish:

• The finish is clean but lingering: a soft, gentle fade rather than a sharp, burning exit.
• Lingering floral and citrus notes – the orange and lavender carry through.
• A subtle herbal or earthy warmth remains, thanks to coriander and sarsaparilla.

Overall Impression:
Aviation Gin is elegant, balanced, and accessible. It doesn’t hit you over the head with juniper; instead, it offers a more “New Western” gin profile — where botanical diversity and subtlety matter more than dominant pine.

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7. How to Serve & Use Aviation Gin (1.75 L)

Because Aviation’s flavor is so versatile, the 1.75 L bottle can be put to many uses in a home bar or professional setting:

1. Gin & Tonic (G&T):
   • Use premium tonic water.
   • Garnish with an orange slice or twist to highlight the citrus peel botanicals.
   • Serve in a highball glass with large ice cubes; the dilution helps open up the floral and spice notes.
2. Classic Cocktails:
   • Aviation Cocktail: The gin’s name comes from this classic. Use it with lemon juice, maraschino liqueur, and crème de violette for a beautifully balanced drink.
   • Martini: Works well in a dry martini. Because the juniper is softer, a slightly “wetter” martini (more vermouth) might help bring out its character.
   • Negroni / Gin Negroni Variant: Aviation’s complexity complements sweet vermouth and bitter Campari. Some bartenders prefer it for its refined but not overpowering botanical profile.
3. Sipping Neat / On the Rocks:
   • While Aviation is designed for mixing, its smoothness makes it suitable for sipping neat or with a large cube.
   • Use a tulip glass or a small rocks glass to help concentrate the aromas.
4. Entertaining / High Volume Use:
   • The 1.75 L bottle is ideal for bartenders, home entertainers, or gatherings: less frequent re-orders, more consistent flavor, cost efficiency.

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8. Popular Cocktails Featuring Aviation

Here are some of the best cocktail ideas to make the most of Aviation Gin, especially when you have a large 1.75 L bottle on hand:

1. Aviation (Classic):
   • 2 oz Aviation Gin
   • ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
   • ½ oz maraschino liqueur
   • ¼ oz crème de violette
   • Shake with ice, strain into a coupe, garnish with a cherry or lemon twist.
2. Gin & Tonic (Floral Style):
   • 1.5–2 oz Aviation Gin
   • 4–5 oz premium tonic
   • Garnish: orange slice or lemon twist + optional lavender sprig
3. West Coast Martini:
   • 2.5 oz Aviation Gin
   • 0.5 oz dry vermouth (or adjust to taste)
   • Stir with ice, strain into a chilled martini glass, garnish with a lemon twist
4. Sarsaparilla Gin Fizz:
   • 2 oz Aviation Gin
   • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
   • ¾ oz simple syrup
   • Egg white (optional)
   • Shake dry, then shake with ice, strain into a highball, top with soda water
5. Botanical Negroni:
   • 1 oz Aviation Gin
   • 1 oz sweet vermouth
   • 1 oz Campari
   • Stir with ice, strain into a rocks glass, garnish with orange peel

These recipes show how Aviation’s balanced botanical profile lends itself across different styles of gin cocktails.

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9. Distribution, Market Position & Brand Growth

Aviation Gin’s journey from a small craft gin to a globally recognized spirit is notable, and the 1.75 L size plays a role in that growth:

• Manufactured by House Spirits Distillery in Portland, Oregon.
• Owned by Diageo since 2020, giving the brand access to wide distribution and marketing muscle.
• The 1.75 L bottle is offered by many large retailers, showing that it’s not just “craft gin” but also a mainstream volume brand. For example, Gopuff offers the 1.75 L at $67.99.
• The Polish retailer (Oregon Gin, in Poland) lists the 1.75 L Aviation at 42% ABV, indicating international distribution.
• The large-format size is attractive for both bars and serious home enthusiasts, contributing to Aviation’s market strength.

Brand recognition is aided by Ryan Reynolds’ ownership, whose public persona helps promote the gin.

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10. Consumer Feedback & Controversies

As with any popular spirit, Aviation Gin (especially in its 1.75 L format) has received both praise and critique from consumers. Here’s a breakdown, including perspectives from online communities.

Praise & Appreciation

• Many fans enjoy its balanced botanical profile — particularly the lavender, citrus, and spice — making it versatile for cocktails.
• Because it’s not overly juniper-forward, it appeals to drinkers who find traditional gin too “piney.”
• Its smooth finish and approachable strength (42% ABV) make it suitable for both sipping and mixing.

Criticisms & Negative Feedback

• Some users on Reddit report flavor inconsistency between batches or bottles:
  

  “They weren’t sealed the best … just a thin paper tape over the cap … I made it through almost 1/4 of the 1.75 L bottle before realizing something was off.”

• There are comments about a piercing or unpleasant anise / licorice note:
  

  “it’s especially noticeable when you mix Aviation with unflavored soda water.”

• Others simply don’t like the taste:
  

  “I think the hype … taste is just weird … menthol-like flavor … not my favourite.”

• Some suggest quality control issues post-acquisition (Diageo), suspecting different production locations or ingredient sourcing:
  

  “Quality control may have messed up … production facility being updated … could account for a flavor change.”

• A few swear by it in specific contexts but dislike it elsewhere:
  

  “It tastes like root beer to me. Not my favorite but … smooth.”

These mixed opinions reflect how flavor perception is subjective, and how large-format bottles can exaggerate batch variation or production inconsistencies.

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11. People Also Ask — FAQ Section

Based on common Google queries and consumer interest, here are frequently asked questions (People Also Ask) about Aviation American Gin (1.75 L), with detailed answers.

Q1: What is the ABV of Aviation American Gin 1.75L?

Answer:
The 1.75 L Aviation American Gin is bottled at 42% ABV, which equals 84 U.S. proof.

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Q2: What botanicals are used in Aviation Gin?

Answer:
Aviation uses seven botanicals:

• Juniper berries
• French lavender
• Sweet orange peel
• Bitter orange peel
• Cardamom
• Coriander
• Indian sarsaparilla
• Anise seed

These botanicals are macerated in neutral grain spirit before distillation.

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Q3: Is the 1.75L bottle of Aviation Gin the same recipe as the 750 mL?

Answer:
Yes — the 1.75 L (or “half-gallon”) bottle uses the exact same recipe and production method as the smaller 750 mL bottle. The only real difference is volume, not flavor profile or strength. All published sources (retailers) list the same botanicals and ABV for both sizes.

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Q4: Where is Aviation Gin made?

Answer:
Aviation Gin is produced by House Spirits Distillery in Portland, Oregon. Despite its global distribution, its distillation roots remain in Oregon. Even after its acquisition by Diageo, production is still tied to the original distillery.

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Q5: Who owns Aviation American Gin?

Answer:
Originally founded by Christian Krogstad and Ryan Magarian, the brand was sold in 2016 to Davos Brands. In 2018, actor Ryan Reynolds bought a stake, and in 2020, Diageo acquired Aviation Gin. Reynolds reportedly retains a continuing ownership interest even after the Diageo acquisition.

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Q6: Why choose the 1.75 L size instead of a smaller bottle?

Answer:

• Better value per mL — larger bottles tend to be more economical.
• Great for entertaining — ideal to stock for bar nights, parties, or high-use scenarios.
• Consistency — using the same large bottle reduces variation between batches if you stick to one.
• Convenience — fewer trips to restock, especially for frequent drinkers or bartenders.

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Q7: What does Aviation Gin taste like?

Answer:

• Aroma: Floral (lavender), citrus (orange peel), gentle juniper, and warm spice (cardamom, coriander).
• Palate: Smooth and well-balanced, with citrus, spice, and a hint of licorice or root-like sweetness from sarsaparilla/anise.
• Finish: Clean, lingering floral and herbal notes, soft warmth, no harsh burn.

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Q8: Is Aviation Gin good in cocktails?

Answer:
Absolutely — it’s highly versatile. It’s excellent in classic cocktails like the Aviation, Martini, or Negroni, and works well in simple refreshing drinks like a G&T, especially with citrus garnish. Because its juniper profile is soft, it doesn’t overpower other ingredients.

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Q9: Are there any batch or flavor inconsistencies in Aviation Gin?

Answer:
Some consumers report batch-to-batch variation — particularly in 1.75 L bottles, where they’ve tasted differences in flavor, bottling quality, or sealing. Others note a pronounced anise or root-beer character in certain bottles. These inconsistencies may stem from production scaling, ingredient sourcing variation, or packaging changes.

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Q10: How should I store the 1.75 L bottle of Aviation Gin?

Answer:

• Store in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
• Keep the bottle sealed tightly when not in use to preserve aromatic intensity.
• Because the 1.75 L bottle has a large volume, consider decanting some into a smaller bottle for daily use — this helps reduce oxidation of the gin you’re regularly consuming.

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12. Pros & Cons of the 1.75 L Bottle

Here’s a balanced look at the advantages and disadvantages of choosing Aviation Gin in the 1.75 L format.

Pros

1. Excellent Value: More spirit for money; cost per mL is lower than smaller sizes.
2. Convenient for Entertaining: Perfect for parties, long cocktail nights, or high usage.
3. Brand Recognition: Aviation is a well-known, respected gin — large bottles reflect confidence in volume sales.
4. Versatility: Works in many cocktails; you won’t run out quickly.
5. Reduced Restocking: Less frequent need to buy multiple small bottles.
6. Solid Mixability: Its balanced botanicals make it great for mixing — tonic, cocktails, highballs, etc.

Cons

1. Storage Space: Requires more room; larger bottles can be bulky.
2. Risk of Oxidation: Once opened, a large volume sits exposed longer — potential for flavor degradation over time.
3. Batch Inconsistency: Some users claim differences between 1.75 L bottles or production runs.
4. Initial Cost: Even with value per mL, the up-front cost is higher than for a smaller bottle.
5. Not for Purists: If you prefer intensely juniper-forward gins, Aviation may feel too soft, regardless of size.

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13. Conclusion

Aviation American Gin (1.75 L) represents a smart choice for fans who enjoy both quality and quantity. This large-format bottle brings together Aviation’s craft legacy — its thoughtful botanical blend, smooth distillation, and balanced flavor — with the practicality and value that comes from buying in bulk.

From a production standpoint, the gin remains true to its roots: steeped botanicals, pot-still distillation, and careful cuts. The 84-proof (42% ABV) bottling ensures it’s strong enough for cocktails while still delicate.

Tasting Aviation Gin reveals a nuanced spirit: floral lavender, citrus peel, spice, and a hint of root-like sweetness. It’s ideal for cocktails ranging from the classic Aviation to a refreshing G&T. And because you have so much in a 1.75 L bottle, you won’t hesitate to mix liberally.

However, it’s not without downsides. Storage can be challenging, there’s some risk of oxidation or flavor change over time, and some drinkers report batch inconsistencies or off-notes (like anise/licorice). For purists who prefer a very juniper-forward gin, Aviation’s botanical democracy may feel too restrained.

Verdict: If you’re someone who uses a lot of gin — whether entertaining, bartending, or just enjoying cocktails regularly — the 1.75 L Aviation is an excellent buy. You get the signature Aviation character, solid quality, and great value. But if you’re only looking for a sipping gin in small amounts, or if space is tight, you might prefer a smaller bottle instead.

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If you like, I can also include high-resolution pictures of the 1.75 L bottle, a breakdown of the nutritional/alcohol content, and comparisons with other gin brands in similar sizes. Do you want me to add that?