Following the successful relaunch of Mermaid Gin and introduction of its pink gin, the Isle of Wight Distillery has unveiled a new look for Mermaid Salt Vodka – and made the grain-based spirit available nationally for the first time.

Now bottled in a white version of the striking bottle used for both gins, the 40% vodka is infused post-distillation with locally sourced sea salt that enhances its smoothness and flavour. Mermaid’s savoury and ‘adult’ flavour is in contrast to many in the fruit-dominated flavoured vodka category and is described as being ‘like the subtle kiss of a mermaid’

With salt’s ability to enhance other flavours, the vodka had already gained something of a cult following amongst island bartenders for use in cocktails. Now, the Distillery believes this can be repeated on the mainland and in what it calls the ‘In-trade’ – people staying at home, but having a go at making creative cocktails.

The salt comes from local supplier Wight Salt and is harvested from water collected in the flood tide off the island’s southern coast – an area prone to extreme storms that churn up the ocean floor, releasing huge amounts of flavour-packed nutrients. Naturally evaporated by sun and wind, the resultant sea salt retains a depth of flavour and distinct sweetness.

Xavier Baker, Co-founder of the Isle of Wight Distillery, said:

“This island is rich in amazing ingredients which we love to use – whether it’s the rock samphire and Boadicea hops in our signature gin, or the addition of local strawberries to Mermaid Pink. This, however, was the first time we ventured into the surrounding seas for an ingredient. Perfect on its own over ice or with a mixer, it also really layers on a unique savoury element for cocktails that you just can’t get with other vodkas.“

As with the distillery’s gins, the bottle is plastic-free, with an all-natural cork and wooden top, complemented with a plant-based, biodegradable seal.