Isle of Wight-produced Mermaid Gin has been announced as the official gin partner of this year’s North Sails Cowes Week, as the world-famous regatta celebrates its 200th anniversary.
Produced at the Isle of Wight Distillery in Ryde, Mermaid Gin will feature throughout the Bicentenary event, with its award-winning spirits served at several official occasions during the sailing festival.
The partnership strengthens Cowes Week’s commitment to celebrating Isle of Wight businesses, with Mermaid already a familiar name among both local residents and visiting sailors.
As part of the celebrations, Mermaid will host the Mermaid Party at Shepards Marina on Monday evening. To mark the regatta’s 200-year milestone, the first 200 Mermaid Gin and Tonics will be given away free of charge.
Visitors will also be able to enjoy drinks from Mermaid’s restored Citroën H-Van, which has been transformed into a mobile coastal bar and will be stationed at Cowes Yacht Haven throughout the event.
Bob Trimble, Chairman of North Sails Cowes Week, has said:
“As we celebrate 200 years, it feels particularly fitting to partner with a brand that is so proudly rooted in the Isle of Wight.
“We are proud of the artisans and businesses that call the Island home, and it therefore seemed natural to welcome Mermaid as our Official Gin Partner.
Article continues below this advertisement “Their commitment to craftsmanship, sustainability and community perfectly reflects the values and spirit of this historic regatta.”
Founded in 2015 by Xavier Baker and Conrad Gauntlett, Mermaid Gin is handcrafted at the Isle of Wight Distillery in Ryde using wild-foraged and responsibly sourced ingredients inspired by the Island’s coastline.
This year’s North Sails Cowes Week marks the 200th edition of one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious sailing regattas, with thousands of competitors and spectators expected to visit the Isle of Wight during the event.
