Who Owns Aviation Gin: A Deep Dive into the Spirit's History and Current Ownership

Hello there, gin enthusiasts! Today, we're going to take a sip back in time and explore the fascinating world of Aviation Gin, including who owns this popular spirit. So, grab your favorite mixing glass and let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and who owns aviation gin.

The Birth of Aviation Gin: A Brief History

Aviation Gin was first introduced to the world in 2006, in the vibrant city of Portland, Oregon. The brainchild of Ryan Magarian, a renowned mixologist, and Christian Krogstad, a master distiller, this gin was created with a simple yet powerful mission: to craft a spirit that would elevate the classic Aviation cocktail and other gin-based drinks.

The original Aviation cocktail, created by Hugo Ensslin in the early 20th century, was a delightful blend of gin, maraschino liqueur, lemon juice, and crème de violette. However, the lack of a dedicated Aviation Gin made it challenging to replicate the original recipe's intended flavors. Magarian and Krogstad set out to change that by developing a spirit that would not only honor the classic cocktail but also stand out on its own.

The Secret Behind Aviation Gin's Unique Flavor

Aviation Gin is crafted using a unique blend of botanicals, including juniper, lavender, cardamom, and sarsaparilla. The secret to its distinctive flavor lies in the balance of these ingredients, with juniper taking a backseat to allow the other botanicals to shine. This approach results in a smooth, approachable gin with a complex and intriguing flavor profile.

The gin is produced using a combination of traditional and modern distillation techniques. The botanicals are first steeped in neutral grain spirit, then distilled in a custom-designed Carter-Head still. This process helps to extract the full range of flavors from the ingredients, resulting in a gin that is both nuanced and robust.

Who Owns Aviation Gin Today?

In 2016, Aviation Gin took a significant leap when it was acquired by the spirits giant, Davos Brands. Since then, Davos Brands has been responsible for the production, distribution, and marketing of Aviation Gin.

Davos Brands is a dynamic spirits company founded by Bill Drakulich and Cale O'Keefe in 2010. The company focuses on acquiring and growing unique, high-quality spirits brands, with a particular emphasis on craft gin and whiskey. Some of their other notable brands include Sombra Mezcal, TYKU Sake, and Astral Tequila.

Aviation Gin's Rise to Fame: Celebrity Endorsement and Beyond

In 2018, Aviation Gin gained significant mainstream attention when it was endorsed by none other than Hollywood superstar Ryan Reynolds. Reynolds, who is known for his sharp wit and love of gin, became a co-owner and creative director of the brand. His involvement has not only brought a wave of publicity but also infused a sense of humor and fun into Aviation Gin's marketing campaigns.

Reynolds' partnership with Aviation Gin has resulted in several memorable ad campaigns, including a hilarious take on the traditional "gin martini" commercial and a tongue-in-cheek comparison of Aviation Gin to other popular spirits. These campaigns have helped to solidify Aviation Gin's place in the popular consciousness and attract a new generation of gin lovers.

Aviation Gin's Impact on the Craft Gin Movement

Aviation Gin's unique flavor profile and commitment to quality have made it a standout spirit in the craft gin movement. The brand's success has inspired other distillers to experiment with new botanicals and distillation techniques, pushing the boundaries of what a gin can be.

Moreover, Aviation Gin's story serves as an inspiration for aspiring distillers and entrepreneurs. The brand's founders, Magarian and Krogstad, began with a simple idea and a passion for crafting exceptional spirits. Their success demonstrates that with creativity, dedication, and a bit of luck, anyone can make their mark on the spirits industry.

How to Enjoy Aviation Gin: Cocktails and Pairings

Aviation Gin's versatility makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of cocktails. Here are a few ideas to help you explore the spirit's flavors:

1. 1. The Classic Aviation Cocktail: A must-try for any Aviation Gin fan, this cocktail combines 2 oz of Aviation Gin, 0.75 oz maraschino liqueur, 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice, and 0.25 oz crème de violette. Shake with ice and strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a brandied cherry or lemon twist.
2. 2. Gin and Tonic: The simplicity of a G&T allows Aviation Gin's unique botanicals to shine. Fill a highball glass with ice, add 2 oz of Aviation Gin, and top with your favorite tonic water. Stir gently and garnish with a lime wheel or wedge.
3. 3. Negroni: This classic Italian cocktail gets a unique twist with Aviation Gin. Combine 1 oz Aviation Gin, 1 oz sweet vermouth, and 1 oz Campari in a mixing glass. Stir with ice and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with an orange twist.

When it comes to food pairings, Aviation Gin's smooth and balanced flavor profile makes it an excellent match for a wide range of dishes. Try it with cured meats, cheeses, or even dark chocolate to bring out the spirit's complex flavors.

Conclusion: Cheers to Aviation Gin and Its Owners

From its humble beginnings in Portland to its current status as a global gin powerhouse, Aviation Gin has come a long way. The spirit's unique flavor, innovative approach to distillation, and celebrity endorsement have all contributed to its success. As we raise a glass of Aviation Gin, we can't help but toast to the brand's founders, Ryan Magarian and Christian Krogstad, and its current owners, Davos Brands, for bringing us this exceptional spirit.

So, there you have it, gin lovers! The next time you reach for a bottle of Aviation Gin, you'll know the fascinating story behind this remarkable spirit and who owns it. Now, go ahead and enjoy a sip (or two) of history!