The tonic has been designed to complement NB Distillery’s gin and existing spirits range, but will only be available in the off-trade until a full rollout next year.
Natural quinine provides a clean and crisp flavour, and plays host to hints of citrus. However, the product contains less quinine than other brands, giving it a less bitter taste.
NB Distillery chief executive Vivienne Muir said: “We know that Britain is a nation of gin lovers and there is a growing trend for speciality and premium tonic.
“In response to this growth, the NB & Bon Accord tonic will not only complement our existing range, but can be enjoyed with a variety of premium spirits.
‘The perfect gin and tonic’
“We have a love of gin and are passionate about remaining true to its perfected process. The Bon Accord collaboration, with its rich heritage and similar ethos and values to us, is the perfect gin and tonic partnership, providing a genuine experience to consumers.”
Both NB and Bon Accord are Scottish firms and have the same vision for Scotland’s alcohol sector, according to NB.
The new co-branded tonics will cost £20 per case or 95p per bottle and will initially be available through specialist wine and whisky merchant Lockett Bros, North Berwick.
Bon Accord owner and director Karen Knowles said: “We are delighted to be partnering with NB Distillery.
“Our understated tonic water really enhances NB's spirit range, allowing consumers to experience the premium spirits at their best. After all, a great spirit should be celebrated.”
Distiller Adnams
Family-owned brewer and distiller Adnams launched its own tonic water last month to complement its range of spirits.
Adnams Tonic Water and Tonic Water Light were created by head distiller John McCarthy.
He said: “As soon as we released our G&T cans, our customers were asking if they could buy the tonic [as a separate product].
“It made sense for us to develop a tonic that tastes great on its own, but also one that doesn't overpower the wonderful botanical aromas and flavours in our award-winning gins.
“A good tonic should complement the spirit it is mixed with, not overwhelm it, so our new tonics have that classic bitterness alongside some fresh lemon and citrus flavours.”