Mermaid debuts canned gin and tonic

Isle of Wight distillery’s Mermaid brand has created its first ready-to-drink (RTD) product, a gin and tonic.

Following news of the brand becoming certified Net Zero, its new cans are 100% recyclable and plastic free. Xavier Baker, co-founder of the Isle of Wight Distillery, said: “After a brilliant response to the launch of the Mermaid brand and with people staying closer to home, enjoying staycations and local events, we decided now was the time to broaden Mermaid’s reach. "As with any RTD, this is perfect for those social, out-of-home moments – not just picnics and BBQs, but it’s also the perfect sundowner for beach or boat trips.” Mermaid's flagship gin, which used as the base of the G&T, contains rock samphire, an edible wild plant which is harvested above high tide from the base of the Isle of Wight’s cliffs. The fragrant plant is said to give the gin a 'hint of sea air', with the expression also delivering 'refreshing' notes of lemon zest and pepper. Priced at RRP £2.90 (US$4.02) per can, the 250ml gin and tonic is available in the UK through Enotria & Coe, drinks wholesaler Tolchards and nectar.net, sitting at an ABV of 6%.