Ryan Reynolds’ Aviation American Gin Continues Its Expansion in UK Gin Market

Aviation American Gin, the world’s fastest growing gin brand, has turned its attention to disrupting the UK gin market with a multi-million-pound investment, as it continues its expansion across the pond.

Owned by actor and producer, Ryan Reynolds, the American craft gin made and bottled in Portland, Oregon, has continued its rapid growth. Aviation American Gin is responsible for, at least, 30% of the total gin category growth in the USA . The brand is now available in over 40 countries with further plans for international expansion on the horizon.

Fresh off the back of last month’s London Cocktail Week 2019, the brand brought a taste of American craft gin to East London, with their very own pop-up gin bar. Renowned US bartenders Travis Tober and Emily Mistell flew across the Atlantic to run some guest sessions on the stand, followed by the team from Revolutions Bars. Activity didn’t stop there, a pop-up gin cart in Revolutions Leadenhall encouraged punters to sample this more welcoming style of gin, whilst the US mixologists also ran a Tiki bar takeover at Portobello Road favourite, Trailer Happiness.

Testament to the growth of the brand, Aviation American Gin is now available to buy online and in over 270 Asda stores and 60 Waitrose premium outlets, as well as expanding its existing stronghold of the UK on trade channel.

Daniel Mandelbaum VP of Marketing for Davos Brands, explains the reason for expanding the brands footprint in the UK market; “We want to disrupt the UK gin category by firmly establishing Aviation American Gin as a key player in the super-premium gin sector. The craft gin scene in the US is booming and Aviation is leading this growth with a quality spirit that gives traditional gins a run for their money. With these new listings we’re confident Aviation American Gin will reach lofty new heights.”

Aviation American Gin was awarded a 97-point rating by Wine Enthusiast, the highest rating given to any gin by the magazine. Unlike juniper-heavy London Dry Gins, Aviation features bursts of citrus and delicate floral flavours at the forefront, with subtle notes of juniper in the background. With seven principle botanicals, the unique notes of lavender, Indian sarsaparilla and anise seed come to the forefront of the new style American spirit.

Speaking about his brand’s big steps into the UK gin market, owner Ryan Reynolds said; “Aviation American Gin is the best damn gin on the planet, and I look forward to proving that in the most discerning gin market on the planet, Great Britain. In exchange for opening your minds and hearts to an American gin, I will have a word with Canada about opening their minds to British Maple Syrup. Deal?"

Sales of gin in the UK on-trade grew 56% compared to last year, with the equivalent of six million more bottles sold in the 12 months to March 2019 than the same period in 2018 . Domestic sales, in the year to March 2019, amounted to over 76 million bottles worth £2.3 billion . Based on the figures available, the WSTA predicts that domestic sales of UK gin will surpass the 100 million bottle mark within the next year.