The world of gin has experienced a significant resurgence in popularity over the past decade, with a plethora of new brands and distilleries emerging onto the scene. Among these, Aviation Gin has managed to carve out its own unique niche, thanks in large part to its association with actor Ryan Reynolds, who acquired a majority stake in the company in 2018. However, the question on everyone’s mind remains: is Aviation Gin actually good? In this article, we will delve into the world of Aviation Gin, exploring its history, production process, and most importantly, its quality and taste.
A Brief History of Aviation Gin
Aviation Gin was first introduced in 2006 by House Spirits Distillery in Portland, Oregon. The brainchild of Christian Krogstad and Ryan Magarian, Aviation Gin was designed to be a more approachable, easy-drinking gin that would appeal to a wider audience. The name “Aviation” was chosen as a nod to the classic cocktails of the early 20th century, which often featured gin as the primary spirit. Initially, the gin was met with critical acclaim, winning numerous awards and garnering a loyal following among gin enthusiasts.
The Acquisition by Ryan Reynolds
In 2018, actor Ryan Reynolds acquired a majority stake in Aviation Gin, bringing a new level of visibility and marketing muscle to the brand. Reynolds, known for his witty humor and clever marketing tactics, has been instrumental in promoting Aviation Gin through a series of humorous advertisements and social media campaigns. While some have criticized Reynolds’ involvement as a mere publicity stunt, others argue that his passion for the brand and commitment to quality have helped to elevate Aviation Gin’s profile and reputation.
Production Process
So, how is Aviation Gin actually made? The production process involves a combination of traditional and modern techniques. The gin is distilled using a combination of botanicals, including juniper, coriander, lavender, and sarsaparilla, which are sourced from around the world. The distillation process takes place in a custom-built still, which is designed to preserve the delicate flavors and aromas of the botanicals. The resulting gin is then filtered and diluted to a strength of 42% ABV, making it a versatile and approachable spirit for a variety of cocktails.
Tasting Notes and Quality
But what about the taste? Does Aviation Gin live up to its hype? According to expert reviews and ratings, Aviation Gin is a well-crafted, balanced gin that showcases a range of flavors and aromas. On the nose, the gin exhibits a crisp, citrusy aroma, with notes of juniper and coriander. On the palate, the gin is smooth and approachable, with a subtle sweetness and a lingering finish. While some critics have argued that Aviation Gin is too neutral or lacking in character, others praise its versatility and mixability, making it an excellent choice for a variety of cocktails.
Comparison to Other Gins
So, how does Aviation Gin stack up against other popular gins on the market? In terms of price point, Aviation Gin is generally positioned as a premium gin, with a price range of around $30-$40 per bottle. In terms of quality and character, Aviation Gin is often compared to other popular gins such as Bombay Sapphire, Hendrick’s, and The Botanist. While each of these gins has its own unique character and flavor profile, Aviation Gin is generally praised for its balance and approachability, making it an excellent choice for those new to gin or looking for a versatile spirit for cocktails.
Cocktail Recipes
One of the best ways to experience Aviation Gin is through a well-crafted cocktail. Here are a few classic recipes that showcase the gin’s versatility and mixability:
- Aviation: a classic cocktail made with gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and lemon juice, garnished with a cherry and an orange twist
- GINger Mule: a twist on the classic Moscow Mule, made with gin, ginger beer, lime juice, and ice, garnished with a lime wheel and a sprig of mint
Conclusion
So, is Aviation Gin actually good? The answer, of course, depends on personal taste and preferences. However, based on expert reviews and ratings, Aviation Gin is a well-crafted, balanced gin that showcases a range of flavors and aromas. With its versatile and approachable character, Aviation Gin is an excellent choice for a variety of cocktails, from classic recipes to modern creations. Whether you’re a seasoned gin enthusiast or just looking to try something new, Aviation Gin is definitely worth exploring. So go ahead, give it a try, and decide for yourself: is Aviation Gin actually good?
What is Aviation Gin and how is it different from other gins?
Aviation Gin is a brand of gin that was founded in 2006 by Ryan Magarian and Christian Krogstad, and it is currently owned by Ryan Reynolds and Davos Brands. Aviation Gin is known for its unique flavor profile, which is characterized by a blend of botanicals such as juniper, coriander, orange peel, and lavender. This combination of botanicals gives Aviation Gin a distinctive taste that sets it apart from other gins on the market. The gin is distilled in small batches using a traditional pot still, which allows for a more precise control over the distillation process and results in a smoother, more refined spirit.
The unique flavor profile of Aviation Gin is due in part to the use of a proprietary blend of botanicals, which are carefully selected and balanced to create a smooth, approachable taste. The gin is also notable for its lack of bitterness and astringency, making it a great choice for those who are new to gin or prefer a milder flavor. In terms of its production process, Aviation Gin is committed to using only the highest-quality ingredients and adhering to traditional distillation methods, which results in a premium spirit that is both smooth and full of character. With its unique flavor profile and commitment to quality, Aviation Gin has gained a loyal following among gin enthusiasts and has become a staple in many bars and restaurants.
Is Aviation Gin owned by Ryan Reynolds, and what role does he play in the company?
Yes, Aviation Gin is owned by Ryan Reynolds, who acquired a majority stake in the company in 2018. Reynolds is not only the owner of Aviation Gin, but he is also heavily involved in the company’s marketing and branding efforts. As a well-known actor and entrepreneur, Reynolds brings a high level of enthusiasm and dedication to the brand, and has been instrumental in helping to raise awareness and drive sales of the gin. He is often involved in promotional activities and social media campaigns, and has even appeared in several humorous advertisements for the brand.
Reynolds’ involvement in Aviation Gin has been a key factor in the brand’s success, and he has played a significant role in helping to shape the company’s image and messaging. Despite his celebrity status, Reynolds is deeply passionate about the gin industry and is committed to producing a high-quality spirit that is both smooth and full of character. Under his ownership, Aviation Gin has continued to innovate and expand its product line, introducing new flavors and products that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. With Reynolds at the helm, Aviation Gin is likely to continue to grow and thrive, and his involvement has undoubtedly helped to raise the profile of the brand and attract new fans.
What are the key ingredients and botanicals used in Aviation Gin?
Aviation Gin is made with a proprietary blend of botanicals, including juniper, coriander, orange peel, and lavender. The exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, but the company has revealed that the gin is made with a combination of traditional and non-traditional botanicals that are carefully selected and balanced to create a smooth, approachable taste. The botanicals are sourced from around the world, and are chosen for their high quality and distinctive flavor profiles. The gin is also made with a neutral grain spirit that is distilled to a high proof, which provides a clean and crisp base for the botanicals to shine through.
The use of a proprietary blend of botanicals is what sets Aviation Gin apart from other gins on the market, and allows it to maintain a consistent flavor profile that is both smooth and full of character. The company’s master distiller works closely with a team of experts to carefully select and balance the botanicals, ensuring that every batch of gin meets the company’s high standards for quality and flavor. The result is a gin that is both complex and approachable, with a flavor profile that is sure to appeal to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned gin enthusiast or just discovering the spirit, Aviation Gin is definitely worth trying.
How is Aviation Gin distilled, and what is the significance of the distillation process?
Aviation Gin is distilled in small batches using a traditional pot still, which allows for a more precise control over the distillation process and results in a smoother, more refined spirit. The distillation process involves heating the neutral grain spirit and botanicals in a pot still, which causes the mixture to vaporize and rise into a condenser. The vapor is then cooled and condensed back into a liquid, which is collected and separated into different fractions based on their boiling points. The fractions are then blended together to create the final product, which is bottled and shipped to distributors.
The distillation process is a critical step in the production of Aviation Gin, as it allows the company to carefully control the flavor profile and character of the spirit. The use of a traditional pot still is significant, as it provides a more nuanced and complex flavor profile than modern column stills. The pot still also allows the distiller to make adjustments to the distillation process in real-time, which enables them to fine-tune the flavor profile and create a spirit that is both smooth and full of character. With its commitment to traditional distillation methods and careful attention to detail, Aviation Gin is able to produce a high-quality spirit that is both unique and delicious.
What are some popular cocktails that feature Aviation Gin as the main ingredient?
Aviation Gin is a versatile spirit that can be used in a wide range of cocktails, from classic gin and tonics to more complex and modern creations. Some popular cocktails that feature Aviation Gin as the main ingredient include the Aviation, the Bee’s Knees, and the French 75. The Aviation is a classic cocktail that is made with gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and lemon juice, and is known for its complex and nuanced flavor profile. The Bee’s Knees is a Prohibition-era cocktail that is made with gin, honey, and lemon juice, and is a great choice for those who prefer a sweeter and more approachable drink.
In addition to these classic cocktails, Aviation Gin can also be used in a wide range of modern creations, such as the Gin and Tonic, the Negroni, and the Pimm’s Cup. The Gin and Tonic is a simple but classic cocktail that is made with gin, tonic water, and lime juice, and is a great choice for those who prefer a crisp and refreshing drink. The Negroni is a bitter and complex cocktail that is made with gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, and is a great choice for those who prefer a more intense and challenging drink. With its smooth and approachable flavor profile, Aviation Gin is a great choice for a wide range of cocktails, and is sure to appeal to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
Is Aviation Gin considered a premium or craft gin, and what sets it apart from other gins in its category?
Aviation Gin is considered a premium gin, and is known for its high-quality ingredients, unique flavor profile, and commitment to traditional distillation methods. The company’s focus on using only the best ingredients, combined with its careful attention to detail and commitment to quality, sets it apart from other gins in its category. Aviation Gin is also notable for its lack of bitterness and astringency, making it a great choice for those who are new to gin or prefer a milder flavor. With its smooth and approachable flavor profile, Aviation Gin is a great choice for a wide range of applications, from classic cocktails to modern creations.
In terms of its pricing, Aviation Gin is generally considered to be a premium product, with a price point that is slightly higher than some other gins on the market. However, the company’s commitment to quality and its unique flavor profile make it well worth the extra cost. With its smooth and approachable flavor profile, Aviation Gin is a great choice for a wide range of applications, from classic cocktails to modern creations. Whether you’re a seasoned gin enthusiast or just discovering the spirit, Aviation Gin is definitely worth trying. With its high-quality ingredients, unique flavor profile, and commitment to traditional distillation methods, Aviation Gin is a premium gin that is sure to appeal to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
Can Aviation Gin be enjoyed on its own, or is it best used in cocktails?
Aviation Gin can be enjoyed on its own, either chilled and straight or with a splash of water or tonic. The gin’s smooth and approachable flavor profile makes it a great choice for sipping, and its unique blend of botanicals provides a complex and nuanced flavor experience. However, Aviation Gin is also a great choice for cocktails, and its versatility makes it a popular choice among bartenders and mixologists. Whether you prefer to enjoy your gin on its own or in a cocktail, Aviation Gin is a great choice, and its smooth and approachable flavor profile is sure to appeal to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
In terms of its flavor profile, Aviation Gin is known for its balanced and refined taste, with a subtle sweetness and a hint of spice. The gin’s botanicals provide a complex and nuanced flavor experience, with notes of juniper, coriander, and citrus. When enjoyed on its own, Aviation Gin is best served chilled, either straight or with a splash of water or tonic. This allows the full range of flavors to shine through, and provides a smooth and refreshing drinking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned gin enthusiast or just discovering the spirit, Aviation Gin is a great choice, and its smooth and approachable flavor profile makes it perfect for enjoying on its own or in a cocktail.