Aviation American Gin

 

Here is a comprehensive article on Aviation American Gin (often called Aviation Gin), including detailed history, production, tasting, marketing, “People Also Ask” questions, criticism, and conclusion. I include relevant information, perspectives, and a thorough exploration.

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Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Origins & History
3. Production & Botanical Profile
4. Distillation Process
5. Tasting Profile (Aroma, Palate, Finish)
6. How to Serve Aviation Gin
7. Awards, Recognition & Market Impact
8. Aviation Gin Distillery & Visitor Experience
9. Marketing, Branding & Celebrity Involvement
10. Controversies, Criticisms & Consumer Feedback
11. People Also Ask — FAQ Section
12. Pros & Cons
13. Conclusion

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1. Introduction

Aviation American Gin, commonly known as Aviation Gin, is one of the most recognizable gins in the American craft-distilled spirits market. Unlike many traditional gin styles that emphasize heavy juniper, Aviation Gin is often described as more balanced and subtle, with florals and citrus notes. Founded by a bartender-distiller partnership, it has gained broader fame thanks to the celebrity involvement of actor Ryan Reynolds, and its recent acquisition by industry giant Diageo.

This gin is not just another celebrity-backed spirit: it has roots in craft distillation, a carefully selected botanical recipe, and a growing footprint both in the U.S. and internationally. In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything about Aviation Gin: how it’s made, how it tastes, what people love and criticize, and whether it’s worth including in your bar.

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2. Origins & History

Founders and Beginnings
Aviation Gin was founded in 2006 in Portland, Oregon, by two visionaries: Christian Krogstad, a distiller, and Ryan Magarian, a bartender. (Wikipedia) They created a partnership that combined bartender insight with distiller craftsmanship — an approach that helped shape the gin’s signature style. (The London Economic)

House Spirits Distillery
The gin is produced by House Spirits Distillery, which originally started in Corvallis, Oregon (2004) before moving to Portland’s “Distillery Row” in 2005. (Wikipedia) Aviation Gin became one of their flagship products. Over time, Aviation accounted for a large proportion of House Spirits’ production. (Thirty-One Whiskey)

Ownership Changes

• In 2016, House Spirits sold the Aviation Gin brand to Davos Brands (a New York-based distributor), although the production remained in Portland. (Wikipedia)
• Ryan Reynolds, the actor, acquired a stake in 2018. (Wikipedia)
• In August 2020, Diageo, the multinational beverage company, purchased Aviation Gin (through Davos Brands) in a deal worth up to US$610 million. Reynolds maintained an ongoing ownership interest even after the sale. (Wikipedia)

This evolution—from craft distillery to global brand—reflects both Aviation’s quality and commercial appeal.

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3. Production & Botanical Profile

One of the most interesting parts of Aviation Gin is which botanicals are used, and how they are treated.

Botanical Blend
According to the brand, Aviation Gin’s recipe includes seven botanicals:

• Juniper (aviationgin.diageoplatform.com)
• French lavender (aviationgin.diageoplatform.com)
• Sweet and bitter orange peel (Wikipedia)
• Cardamom (aviatorflight.com)
• Coriander (aviationgin.diageoplatform.com)
• Indian sarsaparilla (Wikipedia)
• Anise seed (Thirty-One Whiskey)

This blend emphasizes citrus, floral, and spicy notes, with juniper playing a more subtle, background role. (Truman & Orange)

Maceration (Infusion)

• These botanicals are macerated (steeped) in a neutral grain spirit for about 18 hours in dedicated maceration tanks. (aviationgin.diageoplatform.com)
• This step extracts flavors and aromatic compounds gently, rather than using a more aggressive vapor infusion. (aviationgin.diageoplatform.com)

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4. Distillation Process

After maceration, Aviation Gin undergoes a carefully controlled distillation.

1. Still & Heating
   • The macerated spirit is pumped into a still (the brand mentions a custom-built 400-gallon pot still). (Wikipedia)
   • Steam jackets heat the macerate, producing vapor that carries over into a condenser. (aviationgin.diageoplatform.com)
2. Cutting
   • The distillation run is closely monitored. According to their published production video, distillers remove the “heads” (first fraction) and collect the “heart” (middle cut), which is the high-quality portion of the distillate.

The Production Process of Aviation American Gin

• The heart cut comes off at around 142 proof (which is very high) during this stage. (youtube.com)

3. Dilution
   • After distillation, the concentrated spirit is diluted with pure water (deionized water, reportedly from the Cascade mountain region) to bring down the proof to 84 (U.S.), which corresponds to 42% ABV. (The London Economic)
   • This ensures a balanced strength suitable for sipping or mixing.
4. Bottling
   • The spirit is blended, filtered, and then bottled. Aviation mentions that bottling includes a gravity filler, and that labels and caps are applied by hand during the packaging process. (youtube.com)
   • Their bottle design is distinctive: since 2013 they use an Art Deco–inspired flask bottle with a black label and silver cap, giving a vintage yet modern look. (Wikipedia)

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5. Tasting Profile (Aroma, Palate, Finish)

Aviation Gin’s flavor profile reflects its botanical composition and distillation style.

Aroma (Nose)

• On the nose, you’ll detect soft juniper, but not in an overpowering way—it’s more background than front. (Truman & Orange)
• There’s a floral note, primarily from lavender. (Thirty-One Whiskey)
• Citrus from the orange peels is present: sweet and bitter orange peel give a vibrant citrus-lift. (Truman & Orange)
• There’s also a hint of spice/earthiness: cardamom and coriander contribute to a more nuanced scent. (theginguild.com)

Taste (Palate)

• The palate is balanced and soft rather than sharp or overly piney. (Truman & Orange)
• The citrus notes (orange peel) come through, giving a bright characteristic. (Truman & Orange)
• Lavender adds a gentle floral touch; it’s not perfumey but rather complementary. (aviatorflight.com)
• There is some spiciness from cardamom and coriander, but it’s not dominant, more like a subtle background note. (theginguild.com)
• The anise seed and sarsaparilla contribute to a slight root-beer or licorice nuance for some drinkers. (theginguild.com)

Finish

• The finish is relatively smooth and mellow. Aviation Gin doesn’t hit you with harsh juniper or overwhelming alcohol burn. (aviatorflight.com)
• There’s a lingering citrus-floral aftertaste, balanced by a hint of spice. (Thirty-One Whiskey)
• Some tasters note earthy or root-beer–like undertones from the more unusual botanicals (like sarsaparilla) in the finish. (theginguild.com)

Overall, Aviation’s tasting profile makes it more approachable, especially for people who find traditional London Dry gins too piney or juniper-forward.

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6. How to Serve Aviation Gin

Because of its balanced and subtle flavor, Aviation Gin is very versatile. Here are some popular ways to serve it:

1. Neat or Slightly Chilled
   • Aviation is smooth enough to sip neat, especially at room temperature or slightly cooled.
   • Use a tulip glass or spirit glass to concentrate its aroma.
2. On the Rocks
   • Over a large ice cube — this chills the gin without diluting too quickly.
   • The melt will open up the citrus and floral botanicals.
3. Gin & Tonic
   • Aviation works well in a gin and tonic, particularly with a premium tonic and a citrus garnish (e.g., orange slice) to highlight its orange peel botanicals.
   • Because it’s lighter on juniper, the tonic’s bitterness and quinine won’t be masked.
4. Classic Cocktails
   • Aviation Cocktail: Obviously, given the name, it pairs beautifully in this classic. The Aviation cocktail traditionally uses gin, maraschino liqueur, lemon juice, and crème de violette. (Wikipedia Italian)
   • Martini (Dry or Wet): Aviation’s subtle profile makes it a candidate for a gentle martini; you could go “wetter” to maximize flavor, or “dry” if you prefer a cleaner finish.
   • Other Cocktails: Use it in floral or citrus-forward gin-based cocktails, or even in craft highballs.
5. Tasting Flights
   • At their Portland distillery, Aviation offers tasting flights, which let drinkers sample different expressions or seasonal variants. (Business Wire)

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7. Awards, Recognition & Market Impact

Critical Acclaim

• Wine Enthusiast awarded Aviation American Gin a 97-point rating in 2012, which is notably high for gin. (Wikipedia)
• Aviation Gin is often cited as one of the pioneers in the “American craft gin” movement — a style that emphasizes more balanced botanicals rather than just juniper. (The London Economic)

Market Growth

• The brand’s popularity and sales growth attracted Diageo, leading to the 2020 acquisition.
• Its acquisition price (up to $610 million) reflects not just the strength of the brand but its potential and reach.
• Aviation Gin’s appeal lies in its approachability, making it accessible both to gin newcomers and seasoned cocktail drinkers.

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8. Aviation Gin Distillery & Visitor Experience

New Distillery Opening
In 2022, Aviation opened a new distillery and visitor center in Portland, Oregon. (Forbes)

• Located at 2075 NW Wilson Street, the facility offers tours, tastings, and a bar experience. (Business Wire)
• The visitor experience is designed to be both educational and playful — the brand describes it as a “grown-up theme park” merged with a bartender’s heart. (PR Newswire)
• Hollie Stephenson, a seasoned distillery director, oversees production and visitors, combining operational excellence with hospitality. (Business Wire)

Tour Highlights

• Guests can observe the maceration and distillation process, learn about the botanicals, and see how cuts are made. (Forbes)
• There are tasting flights of different expressions (e.g., core Aviation, seasonal batches, etc.). (Business Wire)
• The bar serves signature cocktails made with Aviation, giving visitors a direct sense of how the gin works in mixed drinks. (PR Newswire)

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9. Marketing, Branding & Celebrity Involvement

Aviation Gin’s brand story is a mix of craft authenticity and celebrity flair.

Ryan Reynolds

• The actor Ryan Reynolds is a co-owner and a key figure in the brand’s identity. (Wikipedia)
• Reynolds is not just a figurehead: he’s deeply involved in marketing, storytelling, and the distillery’s public image. (The London Economic)
• His humorous, irreverent style aligns well with Aviation’s brand voice (e.g., their promotional sketches, social media presence). (Wikipedia)

Brand Aesthetic

• The bottle redesign (in 2013) embraced Art Deco style, evoking the golden era of aviation and classic cocktails. (The London Economic)
• Its sleek, flask-like shape is practical for bartenders (easy to grip) and stylistically memorable. (The London Economic)
• The label design, packaging, and branding all communicate a “craft but polished” feel.

Media & Pop Culture

• Aviation Gin has appeared in films and shows; Reynolds has used his platform to promote the spirit. (Wikipedia)
• Its visibility is high, partly thanks to Reynolds’ involvement, but also because of its quality and its place in the growing gin revival.

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10. Controversies, Criticisms & Consumer Feedback

While Aviation Gin has many fans, it’s not without its critics. Below are some common criticisms and community feedback, including from gin enthusiasts and Reddit users.

Flavor Criticism

• Some drinkers find its flavor too mellow or “not gin enough.” On Reddit:
  

  “It’s for drinks where juniper can overwhelm … but I wouldn’t use Aviation in a gin and tonic … You need a London dry style gin to assert itself.” (Reddit)

• Others describe an “anise-like” or licorice note, which they find off-putting. (Reddit)
• According to one user:
  

  “There are so many better products out there that aren’t just based on marketing.” (Reddit)

Batch / Quality Variability

• Some consumers report that different batches of Aviation Gin taste noticeably different, leading to frustration. (Reddit)
• There are claims that changes in production (or label) have impacted the flavor profile. (Reddit)
• Example:
  

  “We have probably gone through 100+ bottles over the years … this seems like a quality control issue.” (Reddit)

Taste Preference & Style

• Aviation’s botanical recipe is polarizing: some appreciate its gentle, nuanced style; others find it lacks punch or complexity. (Reddit)
• Regarding martinis:
  

  “For martinis it’s absolute garbage in my opinion … I’ll take Hendricks … or even tanqueray …” (Reddit)

• On the carb count: some Reddit users mistakenly thought Aviation Gin had high carbs, confusing it with a sweet cocktail, but that’s a misunderstanding (the gin itself has no carbs). (Reddit)

Transparency & Production Concerns

• With the Diageo acquisition, some longtime fans worry about changes in sourcing or production. (Reddit)
• There are comments about “bad bottles” or potentially flawed packaging from certain batches. (Reddit)

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11. People Also Ask — FAQ Section

Here are some of the most common questions people ask about Aviation American Gin, along with detailed answers.

Q1: What is Aviation Gin made from?
Answer: Aviation is made from a neutral grain spirit that is macerated with seven botanicals (juniper, sweet and bitter orange peel, French lavender, cardamom, coriander, Indian sarsaparilla, and anise seed) suspended for about 18 hours. (aviationgin.diageoplatform.com) After infusion, the macerate is distilled in a pot still before being cut and diluted to bottling strength. (youtube.com)

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Q2: What is the ABV (alcohol by volume) of Aviation American Gin?
Answer: Aviation American Gin is bottled at 42% ABV, which corresponds to 84 U.S. proof. (Wikipedia)

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Q3: Why is Aviation Gin considered “less juniper-forward”?
Answer: Unlike traditional London Dry gins that heavily emphasize juniper, Aviation Gin uses a botanical blend where juniper plays a background role. The recipe emphasizes floral (lavender), citrus (orange peel), and spicy (cardamom, coriander) notes, giving it a softer, more balanced profile. (Truman & Orange)

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Q4: Who owns Aviation Gin?
Answer: Aviation Gin was co-founded by Christian Krogstad and Ryan Magarian. Over time, ownership changed: Davos Brands acquired it in 2016, Ryan Reynolds bought a stake in 2018, and in 2020, Diageo purchased the brand for up to US$610 million. Reynolds still maintains some ownership interest. (Wikipedia)

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Q5: Is Aviation Gin good for cocktails, or is it better for sipping?
Answer: Aviation Gin is quite versatile. Its subtle botanical profile makes it excellent in cocktails such as the classic Aviation cocktail, martinis, or even highballs. Because it’s lighter on juniper, it doesn’t dominate in mixed drinks, but its character is subtle enough to be appreciated when sipping neat or on the rocks.

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Q6: What awards has Aviation Gin won?
Answer: One of the most notable accolades is the 97-point rating from Wine Enthusiast magazine in 2012. (Wikipedia) This recognition helped underscore Aviation’s quality and positioned it as a top-tier craft gin.

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Q7: Where is Aviation Gin distilled?
Answer: Aviation Gin is produced at House Spirits Distillery, located in Portland, Oregon, on Distillery Row. (Wikipedia) In 2022, a dedicated Aviation Gin distillery and visitor center opened at 2075 NW Wilson Street, Portland. (Business Wire)

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Q8: What does Aviation Gin taste like?
Answer: The taste profile of Aviation Gin includes:

• Aroma: Soft juniper, floral lavender, and citrus peel. (Truman & Orange)
• Palate: Balanced and round, with citrus, lavender, spice (cardamom and coriander), and hints of anise or sarsaparilla. (aviatorflight.com)
• Finish: Smooth, with lingering citrus, floral notes, and subtle spice or root-like undertones. (Thirty-One Whiskey)

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Q9: Is Aviation Gin suitable for someone who doesn’t like “ginny” gin?
Answer: Yes — precisely. Because Aviation is less juniper-forward, it appeals to people who find traditional gin too piney or harsh. Its botanical blend offers a more accessible, soft, and balanced flavor, making it a good entry point for those exploring gin beyond the classic London Dry style.

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Q10: Does Aviation Gin have a distillery tour?
Answer: Yes. Aviation’s distillery in Portland offers tours and a visitor experience. (Business Wire) The facility includes tasting flights, demonstrations of their production process, and a bar serving gin-based cocktails. (PR Newswire)

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12. Pros & Cons

Here’s a balanced look at the advantages and potential drawbacks of Aviation American Gin.

Pros

• Balanced Flavor Profile: Soft juniper, citrus, floral, and spice make it very approachable.
• Craft Origins: Founded by a bartender-distiller partnership, with hands-on production.
• Versatility: Great for both mixing and sipping.
• Strong Brand & Story: Ryan Reynolds’ involvement, plus a growing distillery presence, gives it narrative appeal.
• Recognition: High critical ratings (e.g., Wine Enthusiast).
• Accessible Price (relative to craft gins): While not ultra-cheap, it offers value for quality.
• Distillery Experience: The Portland facility gives fans a place to engage directly with the brand.

Cons

• Not Juniper-Heavy: If you prefer very classic, piney, juniper-led gin, Aviation might feel mild.
• Flavor Variability: Some consumers report batch-to-batch differences, particularly after ownership changes.
• Mixed Reactions: Its botanical blend (especially anise/sarsaparilla) is polarizing — not everyone likes that rooty/licorice note.
• Celebrity Brand Risk: Some may feel its popularity is driven more by celebrity (Ryan Reynolds) than by tradition.
• Distribution & Price Fluctuation: Depending on region and demand, it may be inconsistently stocked or vary in price.

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13. Conclusion

Aviation American Gin stands out as a modern craft gin that bridges the gap between traditional gin purists and newcomers. Its balanced, less juniper-dominated botanical profile makes it ideal for people who appreciate floral and citrus notes without overwhelming pine. The story behind it — the bartender-distiller founding, the celebrity backing by Ryan Reynolds, and the eventual acquisition by Diageo — gives it both authenticity and scale.

From a production standpoint, Aviation’s maceration process and pot-still distillation reflect a commitment to quality. Its 42% ABV is well-chosen to maintain character without harshness. Its tasting profile rewards both sipping and mixing: it shines in cocktails like the Aviation or a refined gin and tonic, but it also holds up when drunk neat or on the rocks.

However, it’s not for everyone. Traditionalists who demand intense juniper may find it too soft. Some consumer reviews point to inconsistency between batches, which raises questions about production changes or scaling effects. But for many, the flavor, quality, and branding justify adding it to their bar.

Verdict: If you’re looking for a versatile, approachable gin with character — and you don’t mind a little celebrity flair — Aviation American Gin is a strong choice. Its balance, craftsmanship, and story make it a standout in the crowded gin market.

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If you like, I can also include high-resolution images (bottle, distillery, botanicals), cocktail recipes specifically tailored to Aviation Gin, and comparisons with other popular craft gins. Do you want me to add those?