When it comes to celebrity-owned spirits, few have made as big a splash as Aviation Gin, co-owned by the charismatic Ryan Reynolds. Known for his wit, charm, and blockbuster movies, Reynolds has brought a lot of attention to this American gin. But is Aviation Gin worth your time and money? In this review, I’ll break down my experience tasting it three different ways to help you decide if it’s a bottle worth adding to your bar cart.

What Is Aviation Gin?

It was originally created in 2006 in Portland, Oregon, and is marketed as an American dry gin. While it had a modest following initially, its popularity skyrocketed in 2018 when Ryan Reynolds became a part owner. Since then, it’s been everywhere—TV commercials, social media, and even memes.

The gin is reasonably priced, with a 750ml bottle typically costing around $22. The bottle itself is sleek and stylish, with an old-timey, pre-Prohibition vibe that I really like. It’s the kind of bottle that stands out on a shelf without being overly flashy.

Tasting Aviation Gin: Three Ways

To give you a well-rounded review, I decided to try it in three different ways: neat, in a gin and tonic, and in a classic Bee’s Knees cocktail. Here’s how it held up in each application.

1. Neat (On Its Own)

• Nose: Subtle juniper with a dry, clean aroma.
• Palate: Very dry, with minimal florality and a light, almost neutral flavor profile.

While gin isn’t typically sipped neat, Aviation Gin isn’t unpleasant on its own. It’s smooth and easy to drink, but it lacks the bold juniper or botanical punch that many gin enthusiasts (myself included) look for.

2. Gin and Tonic

• Mix: 1.5 oz Aviation Gin, Fever Tree Tonic, lime wedge.
• Taste: Refreshing and light, but the gin’s subtle flavor gets a bit lost in the tonic.

The Aviation Gin and Tonic is a solid, easy-to-drink option. However, if you prefer a gin with more floral or juniper-forward notes, this might feel a bit underwhelming. That said, it’s still a refreshing and enjoyable cocktail.

3. Bee’s Knees Cocktail

• Mix: 2 oz Aviation Gin, 0.75 oz honey syrup, 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice.
• Taste: The gin’s dry profile gets overshadowed by the lemon and honey, making it feel a bit lost in the mix.

While the Bee’s Knees is a delicious cocktail, Aviation Gin’s subtlety doesn’t shine as brightly here. I’d prefer a gin with a stronger flavor profile to stand up to the other ingredients.

My Final Thoughts on Aviation Gin

So, is Aviation Gin worth it? Here’s my take:

• For the Price: At around $22, it is a decent value. It’s not the most complex or bold gin out there, but it’s smooth, easy to drink, and versatile.
• For Beginners: If you’re new to gin or prefer lighter, less juniper-forward spirits, Aviation is a great starting point.
• For Ryan Reynolds Fans: Let’s be honest—part of the appeal is supporting Ryan Reynolds. If you’re a fan, you’re not going to hate this gin. It’s perfectly serviceable and makes for a fun conversation starter.

That said, if you’re a gin aficionado like me, you might find Aviation a bit lacking in depth. For a similar price point, I’d recommend trying Scapegrace or St. George’s Gin, both of which offer more robust and complex flavor profiles.

Should You Buy Ryan Reynold’s Aviation Gin?

If you’re looking for an affordable, easy-drinking gin that’s perfect for casual cocktails or sipping on a warm evening, Aviation Gin is a solid choice. It’s not going to blow your mind, but it’s a reliable option that won’t break the bank.

However, if you’re after a gin with bold botanicals and a more traditional flavor profile, you might want to explore other options. At the end of the day, Aviation Gin is a 6 or 7 out of 10 for me—good, but not great.