SPAIN. Diageo Global Travel has launched Aviation American Gin in global travel retail with a channel-exclusive offer, Expedition Strength (46.5% ABV).
Made for the “adventurous globetrotter” and drawing its name from a Prohibition-era cocktail, the gin brand’s latest expression is now available at key travel retail locations worldwide.
The global roll-out is celebrated with an immersive activation at Barcelona El Prat Airport Terminal 1, in partnership with Avolta. The promotional space offers travellers a chance to sample two signature cocktails – Negroni Upgrade and Bee’s Knees.
Aviation American Gin is characterised by its citrus-forward profile, enhanced by a rich blend of botanicals.
The gin is inspired by the diverse origins of its ingredients, capturing the essence of America’s rich heritage.
Aviation American Gin Co-Owner and Hollywood A-lister Ryan Reynolds said: “No consumer is harder to reach than the duty-free traveller. Yes, it’s a captive audience but it’s also walking by at top speed, rushing to a flight or to hastily purchase a neck pillow. That’s why I am so proud of Aviation Gin Expedition Strength. It’s custom built for today’s weary traveller and it’s the liquid equivalent of a neck pillow.”
Ideal for sipping neat or as a key cocktail ingredient, Expedition Strength features an aroma of sarsaparilla and floral sweetness with citrus zest. On the palate, it reveals citrus and spice notes, finishing with a subtle hint of juniper.
Created in 2006 in Portland, Oregon, Aviation American Gin sought to disrupt the gin category.
The brand became popular when Reynolds discovered it in his favourite Negroni at a local bar during filming of Deadpool 2 in Vancouver. Recognising its quality, he invested in the brand with partners Christian Krogstad and Ryan Magarian in 2018, driving its international success.
Diageo Global Travel Managing Director Andrew Cowan said: “Ryan says it all about this special liquid, but suffice to say we are thrilled to be introducing Aviation to travel retail globally and with an exclusive. Here’s to the drink that really is about taking to the skies.”
Aviation American Gin is currently one of the world’s leading gin brands, according to Diageo. It has been lauded by mixologists as an important figure in the American artisan distilling movement, playing a key role in the development of Portland’s Distillery Row. ✈
