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Aviation American Gin Distillery and Visitor Center in Portland, Oregon, has closed as the celebrity-backed spirits brand shifts its production strategy, according to multiple reports.
Global spirits company Diageo, which acquired Aviation American Gin in 2020, confirmed the closure to local television stations KGW and KOIN, saying the decision was made due to changing business needs.
“This decision reflects the evolving needs of our business as we continue to support the Aviation American Gin brand’s growth ambitions,” Diageo’s statement said. “Aviation American Gin remains an important part of Diageo’s portfolio and we are fully committed to the brand, our customers and consumers.”
USA TODAY contacted Diageo on July 9 for comment and additional information regarding the closure.
The approximately 33,000-square-foot facility in northwest Portland will open in September 2022 and offer visitors a cocktail bar, tasting room, gift shop, and tours that introduce them to the gin-making process, including distillation and bottling operations.
Portland’s House Spirits Distillery founded Aviation American Gin in the early 2000s and later became involved with Emmy Award-winning actor Ryan Reynolds, who acquired a stake in the company in 2018.
“A little more than two years ago, I became the owner of Aviation Gin because I love the taste of Aviation more than any other spirit,” Raynoals said in a 2020 statement after Diageo acquired the company. “What I didn’t expect was the creative joy that learning a new industry would bring. Growing brands at my company, Maximum Effort Marketing, has been one of the most fulfilling projects I’ve ever worked on.”
Is Ryan Reynolds still co-owner of Aviation Gin?
As of July 9, Reynolds remains the owner of Aviation Gin, according to his social media accounts. His Instagram account states that he owns Aviation Gin, Mint Mobile, Maxum Effort and Wrexham AFC Football Club.
When Diageo acquired Aviation Gin, the acquisition agreement valued the deal at up to $610 million, including an initial payment of $335 million and the potential for up to $275 million in additional payments based on the company’s performance over a 10-year period, according to a 2020 news release.
Diageo, one of the world’s largest spirits companies, also owns other alcohol brands such as Captain Morgan, Crown Royal and Smirnoff.
Diageo, what’s next for aviation?
Diageo said it will begin moving aviation production from Portland to other facilities in 2025 as part of efforts to improve efficiency and strengthen its North American operations, KGW reported.
Diageo also said Aviation American Gin will remain part of its portfolio despite the closure of its Oregon visitor center and distillery.
Reporter Anthony Thompson can be reached at ajthompson@usatodayco.com or X @athompsonUSAT.
