Aviation Gin (750Ml)

Aviation American Gin was born in Portland, Oregon. House Spirits Distillery first made it there in 2006, working with bartender Ryan Magarian. They wanted a gin built for the classic Aviation cocktail. Today it is one of the best-known American gins around. Actor Ryan Reynolds bought a stake in 2018 and became its loudest fan. Diageo bought the brand in 2020, and Reynolds kept a share.

The recipe blends juniper, cardamom, coriander, French lavender, anise seed, sarsaparilla and two kinds of orange peel. These steep in grain neutral spirit for 18 hours. The mix is then distilled, and only the heart of the run is kept. Pure water brings it down to 84 proof. Juniper is present, but it never shouts. That is why many people find it softer than a London dry.

Take a moment to smell it first. You get crisp juniper, soft florals like lavender and violet, and fresh citrus peel. A hint of spice sits underneath. On the palate, cardamom takes the lead. Floral notes and orange peel follow close behind. The finish is soft and gently spicy, and the citrus peel comes back at the end.

Critics noticed early. Wine Enthusiast gave it 97 points in 2012. At the time, that was the highest score the magazine had ever given a gin.

Start with the drink it was made for: an Aviation, with maraschino, crème de violette and lemon. It also shines in a Negroni, a dry Martini or a simple gin and tonic. Serve it next to seafood, soft cheeses or citrus appetizers. Short on time? Our ready-to-drink cocktails are an easy backup.

If piney London dry gins feel too sharp for you, this is a friendly place to begin. Fans of floral, spice-led gins will feel right at home too. You can find the rest of the Aviation Gin range in our shop.