SOME exciting news for fans of gin — the Isle of Wight Distillery is expanding its range in time for the summer season. 

The Island-based business has announced the launch of Mermaid Zest Gin — a limited-edition, smooth and refreshing grapefruit and gentle juniper London Dry Gin.

It is the fourth addition to the distillery's sustainable range, which includes Mermaid Gin, Mermaid Pink Gin and Mermaid Salt Vodka.

Produced in Seaview, the new product will be launching at Junipalooza Gin Festival on June 11 and 12 at Tobacco Dock, London, and will also be available online from the Isle of Wight Distillery and John Lewis from early June.

Subtly enhanced with grapefruit and Cascade hops, and infused with Island bergamot, lemon zest and wild-foraged coastal rosemary, it has a light, yet complex zesty tone, with a subtle sweetness and herbal notes.

It is also made with fruits grown in the Victorian walled garden of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s Osborne House. 

Xavier Baker, co-founder of Mermaid Gin, said: “We are delighted to announce the launch of the limited-edition Mermaid Zest Gin to gin lovers, offering a slightly different but equally exciting taste profile to our original Mermaid Gin. 

"Mermaid Zest Gin is a blend of citrus and herbaceous ingredients, with our signature ‘hint of sea air’ from foraged rock samphire. 

"It’s an exciting new addition to our gin portfolio, demonstrating great versatility and delicious served as a gin with Mediterranean tonic or in a more complex cocktail.”