Gin brings a taste of Mediterranean

A gin flavoured with olives, rosemary, basil and thyme is making its way into London pubs and bars.

Gin Mare is a Mediterranean premium spirit created from botanicals synonymous with the region, such as Arbequina olives.

In addition to the four signature flavours, the drink incorporates juniper, coriander, cardamom and citrus.

All ingredients are macerated for 36 hours — apart from the citrus elements (Seville oranges, lemons and mandarins), which are macerated in clay jars for a year — and distilled separately before being blended by hand. It is produced using small-batch distillation in custom-made stills.

"The resulting profile is bold and rich," said Duncan Hayter at Global Premium Brands. "With its accents of olive, Gin Mare is being positioned as perfect for a dry Martini, as well as a base for classic gin cocktails."

The Mediterranean influence is also reflected in the spirit's packaging, which is described by the producer as a "stylistic interpretation of the botanicals and the sea".

The 42.7% ABV gin will initially be targeted at London bars, pubs and luxury retailers, with a particular focus on outlets serving Mediterranean food and tapas.

The distillery for Gin Mare is located in a 19th-century chapel on the outskirts of Barcelona, along the Costa Dorada.

Traditionally, local fishermen would offer their prayers to the chapel before they set sail.