Ryan Reynolds’ Best Aviation Gin Cocktails to Try at Home

Ryan Reynolds, the charismatic actor known for his quick wit and blockbuster roles, has taken the spirits world by storm as a co-owner of Aviation American Gin. This premium gin, distilled with botanicals like juniper, lavender, and orange peel, serves as the star ingredient in his inventive cocktail lineup. Reynolds infuses his recipes with signature humor, turning mixology into entertainment. These drinks range from refreshing summer sippers to bold punches, all designed for easy home preparation.

The Rise of Aviation Gin and Reynolds’ Influence

Aviation American Gin originated in Portland, Oregon, in 2006, crafted by bartender Ryan Magarian and distiller Christian Krogstad. Its unique profile features eight botanicals: cardamom, coriander, French lavender, anise seed, sarsaparilla, juniper, and both sweet and bitter orange peels, steeped in neutral grain spirit. Acquired by Diageo in 2020 with Reynolds holding a stake, the brand has soared in popularity thanks to his promotional flair.

Reynolds doesn’t just endorse; he creates. His cocktails often tie into pop culture moments, like fast-food anniversaries or family holidays, making them shareable and memorable. Whether celebrating a quirky sandwich return or a personal milestone, these recipes showcase Aviation Gin’s versatility—smooth enough for sipping neat yet bold in mixes.

Mastering the Vasectomy Cocktail: A Summer Essential

The Vasectomy stands out as Reynolds’ cheekiest creation, dubbed perfect for summer with its crisp, tangy profile. In promotional videos, he delivers the recipe with deadpan humor, comparing ingredients to life’s joys and ironies.

Ingredients (serves 1):

• 1.5 oz Aviation American Gin
• 1 oz cranberry juice
• 3 oz tonic water
• Dash of fresh lemon juice
• Ice
• Lemon wheel for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Add cranberry juice, tonic water, and lemon juice.
3. Pour in Aviation Gin.
4. Stir gently and garnish with a lemon wheel.

This fizzy concoction balances gin’s botanicals with cranberry’s tartness and tonic’s bubbles, evoking a refreshing “ahhhh” moment. Variations from sources note slight adjustments, like 45ml gin with 30ml cranberry and 90ml tonic, but the core remains light and liberating.

Gin Riblet: Bold BBQ-Inspired Innovation

To mark the McRib’s 40th anniversary, Reynolds unveiled the Gin Riblet, a savory twist blending Aviation Gin with barbecue flavors. He quips it tastes like “Aviation Gin and a Bloody Mary made love,” positioning it as Bloody Mary’s hotter cousin.

Ingredients (serves 1):

• 1.5 oz Aviation American Gin
• 4 oz tomato juice
• 0.5 oz barbecue sauce
• Squeeze of fresh lemon juice
• Ice
• Pickle spear and onion slice for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a shaker with ice.
2. Add tomato juice, barbecue sauce, lemon juice, and gin.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain into a highball glass over fresh ice.
5. Garnish with pickle and onion.

The barbecue sauce adds smoky depth, complementing gin’s spice, while tomato juice provides a Bloody Mary base. Ideal for game days or bold palates, it proves gin’s mixability beyond classics.

Mother’s Ruin Punch: A Family Affair

For Mother’s Day, Reynolds teamed up with his mom for Mother’s Ruin Punch—a nod to gin’s historical nickname. The video captures hilarious tension over measurements and coasters, highlighting its punchy, crowd-pleasing nature.

Ingredients (serves 4-6):

• 1.5 cups Aviation American Gin
• 1.5 cups grapefruit juice
• 0.75 cup lemon juice
• 0.75 cup sweet vermouth
• 0.5 cup sugar
• 0.75 cup club soda

Instructions:

1. Dissolve sugar in lemon juice over low heat; cool.
2. Mix all ingredients except club soda in a pitcher.
3. Chill for 1 hour.
4. Top with club soda before serving over ice.

Grapefruit’s bitterness pairs with vermouth’s herbal notes and gin’s smoothness, making it festive yet sophisticated.

Effortless Classics: Rickey Reynolds and More

Reynolds keeps it simple with Rickey Reynolds, a minimalist highball.

These highlight Aviation’s clean profile, perfect for novices.

Official Aviation Gin Variations to Try

Aviation’s site offers dozens more, emphasizing the brand’s cocktail prowess.

• Tom Collins: 1.5 oz gin, 1 oz lemon juice, 0.75 oz simple syrup, top with club soda. Classic refresher.
• NY Juniper Sour: 1.5 oz gin, 1 oz lemon, 0.75 oz ginger syrup, float red wine. Spicy and visual.
• The Go-Long Cocktail: 1.5 oz gin, 0.75 oz lime, 4 oz grapefruit soda. Easy pitcher option.

Experiment with these to match occasions.

Pairing and Serving Tips

Aviation Gin’s earthy notes shine with light appetizers like seafood or salads. Chill glasses beforehand for fizz drinks; use large ice cubes to minimize dilution. For punches, scale up and add fruits like grapefruit wedges.

Safety note: Drink responsibly; designate drivers for gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Aviation Gin unique?

Its blend of eight botanicals creates a smooth, spicy finish ideal for cocktails.

Can I substitute Aviation Gin in these recipes?

Yes, but Reynolds’ picks highlight its balanced profile; other gins may alter flavors.

Are these cocktails family-friendly?

Most contain alcohol; offer mocktail versions by omitting gin and adjusting juices.

How do I store Aviation Gin?

Keep upright in a cool, dark place; refrigerate opened bottles for freshness.

Where can I find Reynolds’ videos?

Search Aviation Gin’s social channels for hilarious demos.