Few craft spirits have soared into the cultural spotlight quite like Aviation American Gin. With its clean profile, balanced botanical, and a Hollywood-approved brand story, it’s more than just another bottle on the shelf—it’s a modern icon. Whether you're a gin connoisseur or just gin-curious, this deep dive into Aviation American Gin covers its origin, what makes it different, and why it's become a favorite in bars and home collections alike.
The Story Behind Aviation American Gin
Born in Portland: The Craft Spirit Revolution
Aviation American Gin was born in 2006 in Portland, Oregon—a city long known for its rebellious, handcrafted ethos. At the time, the gin market was dominated by traditional London dry styles: sharp, juniper-heavy spirits with little room for experimentation.
Enter bartender Ryan Magarian and distiller Christian Krogstad. Their goal? To create a new style of gin that better complemented modern cocktails. They called it “American dry gin”—a softer, smoother, and more balanced take on the classic spirit. Aviation American Gin wasn’t just a drink; it was a statement that gin could be re-imagined.
Ryan Reynolds: The Celebrity Co-Pilot
In 2018, Aviation American Gin truly hit cruising altitude when actor Ryan Reynolds acquired a stake in the company. His dry wit and sharp marketing sensibility gave the brand viral momentum. From hilarious social media ads to the tongue-in-cheek “Out of Office” message he sent when the brand was acquired by Diageo in 2020, Reynolds helped Aviation become a household name—and not just in gin-loving homes.
But unlike many celebrity-owned spirits, Reynolds wasn’t a silent partner. He visited the distillery, involved himself in production decisions, and became an enthusiastic ambassador for the brand.
“I’ve tried every gin on the planet, and Aviation is, hands down, the best. Also, I don’t recommend trying every gin on the planet.” — Ryan Reynolds
Why “Aviation”?
The name comes from the classic Aviation cocktail, a Prohibition-era drink made with gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and lemon juice. The cocktail’s balance and elegance perfectly mirror what Aviation Gin set out to achieve: a gin that doesn’t overwhelm, but lifts.
Click here to purchase Aviation American Gin.
What Makes Aviation American Gin Different?
Not Your Average Juniper Bomb
Traditional London dry gins are defined by an aggressive juniper character. Aviation American Gin, however, takes a more balanced, botanical-forward approach. It uses a unique blend of seven botanicals:
- Juniper
- Cardamom
- Lavender
- Indian Sarsaparilla
- Coriander
- Anise Seed
- Dried Sweet Orange Peel
The result? A gin that’s smoother, rounder, and less piney than its British cousins. It's the kind of spirit that turns gin skeptics into believers.
Smoothness in Every Sip
Many fans describe Aviation as “vodka drinker–friendly”—but don’t mistake that for blandness. It’s nuanced and aromatic, but without the harshness that can put people off gin. The botanicals are suspended in neutral grain spirit for 18 hours, then distilled in small batches to lock in freshness and precision.
This method gives Aviation Gin its signature silky mouthfeel and elegant finish, making it versatile in everything from martinis to gin fizzes.
A True American Original
While many American gin brands have emerged in the past decade, few have captured the spirit of American innovation and cultural crossover like Aviation. It’s a gin made not to mimic Europe, but to define a category of its own.
Interested in exploring other standout bottles? Don’t miss our guide to the best American gin brands.
Aviation American Gin Review: Taste, Quality & Experience
Tasting Notes
Aroma: Subtle citrus and lavender open the nose, followed by soft herbal undertones and just a whisper of juniper.
Palate: Creamy texture with orange peel and cardamom upfront, lavender and coriander in the mid-palate, and a refreshing herbal finish. It’s complex without being overpowering.
Finish: Clean, medium-long with floral and spice lingering gently.
Whether sipped neat, mixed in a Gin & Tonic, or stirred into a classic Aviation cocktail, the gin consistently delivers a smooth, modern experience.
Comparing Aviation to Other Gins
Here’s how Aviation American Gin stacks up:
| Feature | Aviation Gin | London Dry Gin | Other American Gins |
| Juniper Intensity | Low to medium | High | Medium |
| Smoothness | Very smooth | Dry and sharp | Varies |
| Versatility | High (cocktails & neat) | Cocktail-focused | Varies |
| Signature Notes | Citrus, floral, spice | Juniper-heavy | Often herbal |
If you’re looking for a gateway gin—or just something that plays well in cocktails—Aviation stands out.
Want to learn more about how to enjoy gin like a pro? Check out our guide on how to drink gin.
What the Experts and Customers Say
Critics have consistently praised Aviation for its balance and accessibility:
“One of the best American gins to emerge in the last 20 years.” — The Spirits Business
User reviews highlight its versatility:
“I never liked gin until I tried Aviation. It’s smooth enough to drink straight, but still makes a killer martini.” — Verified Buyer, Total Wine
“Perfect for cocktails but not too floral or sweet. It hits that Goldilocks zone.” — Gin Enthusiast, Reddit Review
Should You Try Aviation American Gin?
Absolutely. If you're looking for a gin that balances tradition with innovation, Aviation American Gin is a clear choice. It’s approachable for beginners and complex enough for seasoned gin fans.
Whether you're stocking a home bar, experimenting with cocktails, or looking for a thoughtful gift, Aviation Gin offers a refined yet playful spirit in every sense.
You can buy Aviation American Gin online or check your local stores and bars. It's widely available across the U.S. and select international markets.
Find your perfect pour: Try it in a classic Aviation cocktail, mix it into a Negroni, or sip it neat to appreciate its full profile.
Click here to purchase Aviation American Gin.
