Isle of Wight Distillery: Ryde, Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight Distillery is based near Ryde on the island's north coast. Although it is best known for Mermaid Gin, it also has a place in the story of English whisky: the business began laying down whisky in 2015.
Who founded the distillery?
Xavier Baker and Conrad Gauntlett founded the business in 2014. Both brought experience from brewing or winemaking, and the venture focused on producing small-batch spirits inspired by the island's landscape and ingredients.
Where is it?
The distillery is at Pondwell Hill near Ryde, Isle of Wight. Its current home is associated with the Mermaid Bar and distillery shop. The team moved production here from an earlier site at Rosemary Vineyard in late 2017. Check the distillery's official website before travelling, as tour and hospitality arrangements can change.
What spirits does it produce?
Its best-known range is Mermaid Gin, which uses ingredients associated with the Isle of Wight, including rock samphire and Boadicea hops. The business also produces other spirits, including vodka and rum expressions. It should not be described as a whisky-only producer.
Its connection with whisky
The first Isle of Wight whisky was reportedly laid down on 16 December 2015. An industry report in December 2018 said the liquid had passed the three-year Scotch-style maturation milestone in cask, although that does not make it Scotch whisky. Early production involved wash prepared at Goddards Brewery, linked with co-founder Xavier Baker. This is a noteworthy chapter in the development of English whisky, even though gin remains the distillery's most visible speciality.
Sustainability and visiting
The distillery emphasises locally sourced botanicals where practical, reducing waste and limiting packaging plastics. It is listed as a certified B Corporation. For visits, current product ranges and opening arrangements, consult the official website directly.
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