A Different Approach to American Gin
Aviation Gin arrived on the spirits scene with a deliberate mission: to create an American-style gin that breaks from the juniper-heavy London Dry tradition. Here at The Barrel Tap, our Aviation Gin selection brings you access to this distinctively smooth spirit that has redefined what gin can taste like for a new generation of drinkers.
Developed in Portland, Oregon, Aviation takes its name from a classic prohibition-era cocktail—a fitting tribute given the brand's own rebellious stance against gin conventions. The liquid inside the bottle balances juniper with a softer botanical blend featuring lavender, cardamom, anise seed, sarsaparilla, coriander, and two varieties of orange peel. The result is a gin that plays well with others in mixed drinks while remaining interesting enough to sip over ice.
What Sets This Spirit Apart
Why buy Aviation Gin? The answer lies in its versatility and approachability. Where traditional gins can dominate a cocktail with piney, resinous notes, Aviation integrates more gently, allowing citrus, floral, and spice elements to share the spotlight. This balance makes it particularly well-suited for gin newcomers who find classic styles too aggressive, while still offering enough botanical complexity to satisfy experienced palates.
The production process involves macerating each botanical separately before blending—a technique that allows precise control over how each flavor component contributes to the final spirit. Dutch grain provides the neutral base, which is then distilled in a custom-built pot still. This attention to process yields a clean, slightly creamy texture that distinguishes Aviation from sharper, more austere gins.
Mixing and Serving Possibilities
Aviation Gin shines in cocktails where you want gin character without overwhelming other ingredients. The namesake Aviation cocktail—combining this gin with maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and fresh lemon—showcases how the spirit's floral notes complement rather than compete with delicate modifiers. It's equally at home in a simple gin and tonic, where the softer juniper profile allows premium tonic waters to express their own botanical qualities.
For those who prefer their spirits neat or on the rocks, Aviation delivers a drinking experience markedly different from London Dry styles. Expect initial notes of orange citrus and lavender, a mid-palate featuring warm cardamom and subtle anise, and a finish where juniper appears almost as an afterthought rather than the dominant player. This progression makes it a thoughtful choice for after-dinner sipping or as the foundation for a considered martini.
Perfect for Gifting and Discovery
Looking for a gin that appeals to varied tastes? Aviation makes an excellent gift choice precisely because it sidesteps the polarizing nature of juniper-forward expressions. Recipients who typically avoid gin often find this American interpretation surprisingly enjoyable, while gin enthusiasts appreciate having a different tool in their home bar arsenal.
The brand's recognizable bottle—featuring a distinctive silhouette and aviation-themed design elements—presents well whether displayed on a bar cart or wrapped as a present. For hosts planning cocktail parties, Aviation offers a crowd-pleasing base spirit that won't alienate guests unfamiliar with gin while still delivering genuine character in every pour.
Browse Our Aviation Gin Selection
The Barrel Tap stocks Aviation Gin for customers seeking a modern American take on this classic spirit category. Whether you're building out a comprehensive home bar, searching for a versatile mixing gin, or simply curious about what the New Western gin movement tastes like, you'll find what you need in our selection below.
Each bottle ships with the careful handling you'd expect from a dedicated spirits retailer. Browse our current Aviation offerings and discover why this Portland-born gin has earned devoted fans among bartenders and home mixologists alike.
