Aviation Old Tom Gin

 

Here is a detailed, 3,000+-word article on Aviation Old Tom Gin, exploring its history, production, tasting profile, design, consumer perspectives, and a “People Also Ask” section common on Google — plus a conclusion.

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Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What Is Old Tom Gin? A Brief Historical Context
3. Origins & Brand Background of Aviation Gin
4. Production of Aviation Old Tom Gin
5. Botanical Profile
6. Aging Process & Barrel Treatment
7. Tasting Profile (Nose, Palate, Finish)
8. How to Serve & Use Aviation Old Tom Gin
9. Cocktails Featuring Aviation Old Tom Gin
10. Awards, Market Position & Brand Strategy
11. Consumer Feedback, Popular Opinions & Criticism
12. People Also Ask — FAQ Section
13. Pros & Cons of Aviation Old Tom Gin
14. Conclusion

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1. Introduction

Aviation Old Tom Gin is a modern revival of a nearly-forgotten gin style — Old Tom — created by the makers of Aviation American Gin. Rather than simply adding sugar or sweeteners, Aviation’s take on Old Tom comes from aging their signature gin in used whiskey barrels, giving it a gentle sweetness, oak warmth, and a mellow, refined profile. It bridges the gap between gin’s historic roots and contemporary craft distilling, offering a sipping experience that feels both nostalgic and modern.

In this article, we’ll explore what makes Aviation Old Tom Gin special, how it’s made, how it tastes, how to drink it, what people say, and whether it’s worth adding to your bar.

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2. What Is Old Tom Gin? A Brief Historical Context

To appreciate Aviation’s Old Tom expression, it helps to understand what Old Tom gin historically refers to.

• Old Tom gin is a classic style of gin that was popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly in England. It occupies a middle ground between London Dry gin (very dry, juniper-driven) and Genever (maltier, heavier). Historically, Old Tom was often lightly sweetened — sometimes with sugar — to make it more palatable, especially in sweeter or more refined cocktails of the period.
• The name “Old Tom” is said to derive from the “Old Tom” plaques mounted on pub walls: patrons would drop coins through a slot, and a black cat (or tomcat) would ring a bell when the gin was dispensed. Whether this is entirely factual or partly mythologized, the style’s reputation for being “a gentler, sweeter gin” stuck.
• In pre-Prohibition and Victorian-era cocktails, Old Tom was a key player in many recipes (like the Tom Collins), but over time it fell out of favor as drier styles became more common. Today, craft distillers are reviving it — with modern spins: some add sugar, some age in barrels, some tweak botanicals, etc.

Aviation’s take is notable because rather than using sugar, they age their gin in whiskey barrels, creating sweetness and roundness through wood aging rather than added sugar.

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3. Origins & Brand Background of Aviation Gin

To understand Aviation Old Tom, you need to know who makes it and where it comes from.

• Aviation American Gin was founded in Portland, Oregon, by distiller Christian Krogstad and bartender Ryan Magarian in 2006. (Wikipedia)
• It is produced by House Spirits Distillery, which began in Corvallis, Oregon, in 2004, then moved to Portland in 2005. (Wikipedia)
• Aviation Gin is known for having a less juniper-dominant profile, relying instead on a balanced botanical blend that includes floral, citrus, and spice elements. (Wikipedia)
• Over time, the brand grew in popularity. Actor Ryan Reynolds later acquired a stake in Aviation Gin, helping raise its profile. (Wikipedia)
• The Old Tom expression is one of Aviation’s special-edition or secondary gins — a throwback to a classic style, but made with their signature botanical base and aged in whiskey barrels. (Ginventory)

Thus, Aviation Old Tom combines the pedigree and character of the core Aviation brand with a historical style revived in a craft way.

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4. Production of Aviation Old Tom Gin

How is Aviation Old Tom Gin made? The production process is quite deliberate and rooted in craft distilling.

1. Base Gin Production
   • The base spirit for Aviation Gin (and by extension for their Old Tom) begins with a neutral grain spirit. (Flaviar)
   • The core botanicals (see next section) are macerated in the base spirit. Multiple sources say Aviation uses its signature botanical blend for Old Tom. (Caskers)
   • After maceration, the spirit is distilled in a still built by House Spirits. According to Caskers, their regular gin is pot-distilled twice; the same base gin is used for Old Tom. (Caskers)
   • Following distillation, the gin is cut to proof using water (in Aviation’s case, de-ionized water, per their standard gin process) before the barrel-aging step. (Caskers)
2. Barrel Aging
   • What defines Aviation Old Tom is aging: the gin is rested for about one year (12 months) in American white oak barrels. (Flaviar)
   • The barrels used are not fresh oak: they are previously used whiskey barrels — specifically ones that held Westward Whiskey. (Caskers)
   • Because these barrels were used for 3–4 years for whiskey (per Caskers), they are relatively neutral, imparting gentle oak warmth and subtle caramel or whiskey-like character, rather than strong char or bold wood flavor. (Caskers)
   • No sugar or other sweeteners are added after distillation or during aging (according to some sources): the “sweetness” and complexity come from the barrel, not added syrup. (Flaviar)

This method allows Aviation to maintain the botanical integrity of their gin while introducing smoothness and depth via wood aging.

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5. Botanical Profile

Knowing the botanicals is key to understanding what flavors are present in Aviation Old Tom Gin.

• According to Caskers, Aviation Old Tom uses eight known botanicals: juniper, lavender, sweet orange peel, bitter orange peel, cardamom, coriander, Indian sarsaparilla, and anise seed. (Caskers)
• Ginventory confirms that the Old Tom version uses the same botanical recipe as Aviation American Gin, then ages rather than alters the botanical mix. (Ginventory)
• According to Flaviar, the botanicals are infused (macerated) for about 18 hours in the base spirit. (Flaviar)
• The presence of sarsaparilla and anise is particularly interesting: these give Old Tom a somewhat rooty, slightly sweet, and aromatic nuance that pairs well with its barrel-aged profile. (Country Wine & Spirits)

This botanical blend is very similar to the core Aviation Gin, but the aging gives different weight and expression to those botanicals.

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6. Aging Process & Barrel Treatment

As noted, barrel aging is central to this expression of Old Tom. Let’s explore that more deeply.

• Barrel Type: Aviation uses American white oak barrels previously used for Westward Whiskey. (Caskers)
• Previous Use: The whiskey barrels were used for 3–4 years before being repurposed for aging gin. This means they’re not overly charred or saturated, allowing the gentler flavors (like vanilla, light caramel, warm wood) to come through. (Caskers)
• Aging Time: Approximately 12 months (1 year) of rest. (Flaviar)
• Effect of Aging: Barrel aging helps mellow the gin’s botanical character, softens the edges, and introduces gentle oak notes — caramel, vanilla, wood warmth — without overwhelming the original botanical profile. (Flaviar)
• No Added Sweetness: Unlike some Old Tom gins that use added sugar, Aviation does not add sugar or sweetener post-distillation. The “sweetness” comes from the wood and mellowing. (ggmerchants.com)

This aging process is what makes Aviation Old Tom distinctive — it is not just the gin plus sugar, but a carefully matured spirit that maintains its original botanical DNA.

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7. Tasting Profile (Nose, Palate, Finish)

Here is a detailed breakdown of how Aviation Old Tom Gin typically tastes, based on tasting notes from retailers, expert reviews, and community feedback.

Aroma / Nose

• Floral & Sweet: The dominant impression on the nose is a soft floral note, particularly lavender, which is signature to Aviation. (BottleStork)
• Vanilla & Oak: From the barrel aging, you’ll get hints of vanilla, mild oak, and some warm wood-aged sweetness. (BottleStork)
• Citrus: Orange peel (sweet and bitter) brings a citrus brightness to the nose. (BottleStork)
• Juniper: Present but restrained — not overly piney; it supports rather than dominates. (Taster’s Club)
• Spice: A gentle spice from cardamom and coriander may come through.

Palate / Taste

• Smooth & Rounded: The aging process gives the gin a softer, more rounded mouthfeel. (BottleStork)
• Caramel Sweetness: Subtle caramel-like sweetness from the barrel wood, but not cloying; it’s balanced. (BottleStork)
• Botanical Complexity: Lavender and citrus (orange) remain noticeable; sarsaparilla and anise seed add a nuanced spice or root-like depth. (You Booze)
• Juniper: The juniper remains, but in a mellow way, blending into the background more than jumping forward. (ggmerchants.com)
• Warm Spice & Oak: Light oak warmth, nuanced spice, and possibly some “Christmas-cake”–style spice (a note mentioned in tasting descriptions) that comes from mellowing in barrels. (BottleStork)

Finish

• Medium-Length: The finish is typically described as medium in length — not too short, but not dragged out heavily. (BottleStork)
• Sweet, But Refined: There’s a gentle sweetness lingering at the end — more like wood spice or light caramel, not syrupy sugar. (Flaviar)
• Oak & Spice Echo: Oak tones and some spice (cardamom, sarsaparilla) linger, giving a warm, elegant fade. (BottleStork)
• Soft Juniper: Juniper may re-emerge softly at the finish, but it remains balanced and not too sharp. (Vintage Wine Cellar Lebanon)

Overall Impression: Aviation Old Tom Gin has a luxurious, mellow, and slightly sweet character. The aging softens the botanicals, adds complexity, and makes it approachable both for sipping and for classic cocktail use.

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8. How to Serve & Use Aviation Old Tom Gin

Because of its unique profile — botanical richness plus gentle age-derived sweetness — Aviation Old Tom Gin is quite versatile. Here are ways to serve and enjoy it.

1. Neat or On the Rocks
   • With its rounded, mellow profile, Old Tom is very drinkable neat.
   • Serving it with a large ice cube helps coax out oak and spice notes while softening the botanical edges.
2. Classic Cocktails
   • Tom Collins: Old Tom gin is historically linked to the Tom Collins. Use lemon juice, simple syrup (or less, because of the barrel sweetness), soda water, and a lemon wedge.
   • Martinez: A classic cocktail that benefits from a gentler gin — replace a standard London Dry gin with Old Tom to add sweetness and depth.
   • Gin Old Fashioned: Use Old Tom in place of whiskey in an Old Fashioned-style drink (bitters + sugar + gin + water) for a ginny twist on a whiskey cocktail.
   • Aviation Cocktail (modern twist): You can even try making an Aviation (the cocktail) with the Old Tom version; some bartenders report it balances nicely with the sweet and floral aspects. (Reddit users have experimented: “first time trying Old Tom … with an Aviation … cuts that sweet and balances it out better.”) (Reddit)
3. Highball / Long Drinks
   • Mix Old Tom with tonic or soda for a more delicate, mature G&T — the barrel-aged sweetness adds subtle complexity.
   • Alternatively, mix with ginger ale or soda and citrus to highlight its sweeter, oak character.
4. Sipping With Food
   • Because of its slightly sweet, smooth profile, Aviation Old Tom Gin pairs well with food: desserts (fruit-based, crème desserts), smoky or grilled meats, or creamy cheeses.
   • It’s also a great contemplative drink for after dinner or as part of a tasting flight.

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9. Cocktails Featuring Aviation Old Tom Gin

Here are a few cocktail ideas (some classic, some creative) using Aviation Old Tom Gin:

1. Old Tom Collins
   • 2 oz Aviation Old Tom Gin
   • 0.75 oz lemon juice
   • 0.5 oz simple syrup (adjust for the natural sweetness)
   • Soda water
   • Garnish: lemon wheel, cherry
2. Old Tom Martinez
   • 1.5 oz Aviation Old Tom Gin
   • 1.5 oz sweet vermouth
   • 0.25 oz maraschino liqueur
   • 2 dashes orange bitters
   • Stir over ice, strain into a chilled coupe, garnish with lemon twist or cherry
3. Gin Old Fashioned (Gin Fashioned)
   • 2 oz Aviation Old Tom Gin
   • 0.25 oz simple syrup (or use a sugar cube)
   • 2–3 dashes aromatic bitters
   • Stir with ice, twist orange peel over, garnish with orange peel
4. Aged Aviation Cocktail
   • 1.5 oz Old Tom Gin
   • 0.5 oz maraschino liqueur
   • 0.5 oz lemon juice
   • 0.25 oz crème de violette (optional)
   • Shake with ice, strain into chilled glass, garnish with cherry or lemon
5. Barrel-Gin Highball
   • 2 oz Aviation Old Tom Gin
   • 4 oz premium tonic or soda
   • Garnish: orange twist + sprig of lavender (optional)

These recipes leverage the gin’s aging and botanical character, allowing its sweeter and smoother nature to shine.

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10. Awards, Market Position & Brand Strategy

Awards & Recognition

• While the Old Tom variant does not appear to have as many public awards as Aviation’s flagship gin, it is featured by respected retailers like Flaviar and Caskers, which praise its complexity and smoothness. (Flaviar)
• It’s also recognized on GinInventory for its high quality and craft authenticity. (Ginventory)

Market Position

• The Old Tom expression is part of Aviation’s premium/gourmet gin portfolio, appealing to both gin enthusiasts who appreciate historical styles and craft-spirits consumers who value aging and experimentation.
• By using barrel-aging rather than added sugar, Aviation preserves brand consistency: the Old Tom tastes unmistakably like Aviation, but with a refined, mature twist. (Ginventory)
• Pricing is generally competitive: for example, Caskers lists the 750 mL at around $43.99 for some markets. (Caskers)
• The product is available via many craft and premium liquor retailers. (BottleStork)

Brand Strategy

• Heritage Revival: By releasing an Old Tom style, Aviation taps into gin’s historical identity and legacy.
• Innovation + Craft: Aging gin in whiskey barrels shows a willingness to innovate while respecting spirit traditions.
• Cross-Appeal: The smoother, aged profile attracts both those who like sipping spirits and those who enjoy mixing refined cocktails.
• Marketing & Storytelling: Given Aviation’s strong brand recognition (augmented by public figures associated with the brand), the Old Tom gin helps deepen the narrative of craftsmanship, tradition, and quality.

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11. Consumer Feedback, Popular Opinions & Criticism

Understanding how real consumers perceive Aviation Old Tom is important. Here’s a summary of praise, criticisms, and sentiment drawn from online communities (e.g., Reddit) and user reviews.

Praise & Strengths

• Many appreciate how smooth and mellow this Old Tom is, noting that the barrel-aging gives it richness without overpowering the botanicals. (BottleStork)
• The floral notes (lavender) are frequently highlighted, even in the aged variant. (Vintage Wine Cellar Lebanon)
• Users say it works beautifully in classic cocktails: for example, someone on Reddit reported using it in an Aviation cocktail, noting that it cuts the sweetness:
  

  “first time trying Old Tom … with an Aviation … cuts that sweet and balances it out better IMO.” (Reddit)

• The finish is praised as warm (oak, gentle spice) but not overly bitter or harsh.

Criticisms & Drawbacks

• Some users feel that it’s not sweet enough to match their expectation of an Old Tom gin:
  

  “It’s basically just the gin aged in whiskey barrels. No additional botanicals and no sweetness.” (Reddit)

• For those expecting a sugar-laden, old-fashioned Old Tom, the barrel-aged approach may feel “off-style” or insufficiently traditional.
• A few note that despite the barrel influence, the juniper is still restrained, so it may not satisfy those wanting very juniper-heavy gin.
• Price perception: while many find the price fair for a barrel-aged gin, some compare it to whiskey rather than gin, and some feel the cost premium for aging may not fully justify the flavor change.

Reddit & Community Observations

• In a Reddit Old Tom gin flight, one user wrote:
  

  “Aviation was lighter … a sweet start with some floral notes and caramel … then a more savory finish.” (Reddit)

• Another commented:
  

  “It’s not bad! Not sweetened … it’s basically just aged Aviation … very drinkable.” (Reddit)

• Yet another pointed out a downside:
  

  “There’s an Old Tom version, but it’s basically just aged Aviation … Very disappointing.” (Reddit)

These varied reactions reflect that Aviation Old Tom is not a one-size-fits-all Old Tom — its character depends on what you personally value in gin: sweetness, oak, botanical integrity, or historical style.

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12. People Also Ask — FAQ Section

Here are some common questions people might ask on Google about Aviation Old Tom Gin, with detailed answers.

Q1: What is Aviation Old Tom Gin?
Answer:
Aviation Old Tom Gin is a barrel-aged version of Aviation American Gin. It uses the same botanical recipe as the core Aviation Gin (juniper, lavender, cardamom, sarsaparilla, orange peel, etc.) but is aged for about 12 months in used American white oak whiskey barrels, giving it a mellow sweetness and gentle oak character. (Flaviar)

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Q2: What is the ABV (alcohol content) of Aviation Old Tom Gin?
Answer:
It is bottled at 42% ABV, which corresponds to 84 proof. (Caskers)

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Q3: What botanicals are used in Aviation Old Tom Gin?
Answer:
Aviation Old Tom Gin uses eight known botanicals: juniper, French lavender, sweet orange peel, bitter orange peel, cardamom, coriander, Indian sarsaparilla, and anise seed. (Caskers)

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Q4: Is sugar added to Aviation Old Tom Gin?
Answer:
No – unlike some traditional Old Tom gins that use added sugar, Aviation’s Old Tom does not rely on sugar. Its sweetness and smoothness come from aging in used whiskey barrels, not from added sweeteners. (ggmerchants.com)

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Q5: How long is Aviation Old Tom Gin aged?
Answer:
It is aged for approximately 12 months in American white oak barrels that were previously used for Westward Whiskey. (Flaviar)

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Q6: What does Aviation Old Tom Gin taste like?
Answer:

• Nose: Floral lavender, citrus peel, vanilla/oak warmth, subtle juniper. (BottleStork)
• Palate: Smooth and rounded, with caramel sweetness, botanical complexity (lavender, cardamom, sarsaparilla), and muted juniper. (Vintage Wine Cellar Lebanon)
• Finish: Medium-length, with lingering oak, spice, soft sweetness, and a gentle echo of botanicals. (Flaviar)

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Q7: How should I drink Aviation Old Tom Gin?
Answer:
You can enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails. It works well in a Tom Collins, a Martinez, a Gin Old Fashioned, or even a twist on the Aviation cocktail. The barrel-aged character makes it both mixable and sippable.

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Q8: How is Aviation Old Tom Gin different from regular Aviation Gin?
Answer:
The main difference is the barrel-aging. While regular Aviation Gin is unaged, distilled, and bottled to preserve its bright botanical profile, the Old Tom version takes that same gin, rests it for a year in whiskey barrels, and softens the edges. This adds wood warmth, caramel-like sweetness, and a richer mouthfeel, without changing the botanical recipe significantly. (Ginventory)

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Q9: Is Aviation Old Tom Gin sweet?
Answer:
Yes, but not in a syrupy or cloying way. Its sweetness is subtle and comes from the barrel, not from added sugar. The aged wood imparts warmth, mild caramel, and a gentle sweetness that complements, rather than overpowers, the botanicals.

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Q10: Where is Aviation Old Tom Gin produced?
Answer:
It is produced by House Spirits Distillery in Portland, Oregon — the same distillery that makes Aviation American Gin. (Wikipedia)

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13. Pros & Cons of Aviation Old Tom Gin

Here’s a balanced view of the strengths and potential drawbacks of this gin.

Pros:

• Unique Barrel-Aged Profile: Aging in used whiskey barrels gives it depth, smoothness, and subtle sweetness.
• Craftsmanship: Produced by a reputable distillery (House Spirits) with a known botanical recipe.
• Historical Style: Revives a classic Old Tom style in a modern, thoughtful way.
• Versatility: Works both neat/on-the-rocks and in classic or modern cocktails.
• No Added Sugar: Sweetness comes from wood, not syrup, which preserves gin purity.
• High-Quality Botanicals: Rich and balanced botanical blend including lavender, sarsaparilla, and citrus.

Cons:

• Not Very Sweet Compared to Traditional Old Tom: Some expect a sugarier Old Tom and may find this less “Old Tom-y.”
• Subtle Juniper: For those who prefer strongly juniper-forward gin, this may feel understated.
• Price Premium: Barrel aging adds cost; some may feel it’s expensive for what is essentially aged gin, not whiskey.
• Limited Availability: Depending on your region, Old Tom variants may be harder to find than the core Aviation.
• Subjective Appeal: The woody, oaky sweetness may not appeal to those expecting more botanical or floral gin.

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14. Conclusion

Aviation Old Tom Gin is an elegant, thoughtful revival of a storied gin style. By marrying Aviation’s signature botanical recipe with a year of aging in previously used whiskey barrels, the distillers have created a spirit that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.

This gin is not simply a sweeter version of Aviation; it’s a carefully matured expression that retains the brand’s floral and spice character while gaining additional depth, warmth, and complexity from oak. Its profile is rich but balanced — floral lavender, citrus, caramel-like wood notes, and just a whisper of juniper.

For drinkers, Aviation Old Tom offers excellent versatility: it’s nuanced enough for sipping neat, and refined enough to elevate classic cocktails like the Martinez, Tom Collins, or even a twist on the Aviation cocktail. It appeals to consumers who appreciate craft distillation, depth of flavor, and a spirit’s story.

On the other hand, it’s not for everyone: if you expect sugary Old Tom or high juniper punch, you might feel it’s too restrained. Also, the aging process and barrel cost carry a price premium that some may question.

Verdict: Aviation Old Tom Gin is a standout spirit for gin lovers who value craft, history, and a smooth, sophisticated drinking experience. It’s a smart pick for your home bar if you enjoy sipping gin or making elevated cocktails — especially if you’re curious about barrel-aged gin styles without sacrificing botanical complexity.

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If you like, I can include high-resolution photos of the Aviation Old Tom Gin bottle, images of the distillery, or recommended food pairings. Do you want me to add them?