ISLANDS8 UNVEILS WATERMELON GIN AS BLUEMARLIN’S ‘DESIGN FLEX’ COMES TO LIFE

Islands8 has launched a new watermelon-flavoured gin, showcasing the adaptability of its brand design by bluemarlin. The summery variant blends Maltese botanicals with a fresh twist, reflecting the Mediterranean spirit while marking a key milestone in the brand’s growth and expanding appeal.

Islands8, the award-winning Maltese gin, has introduced a vibrant watermelon variant in time for summer, pairing a fresh flavour profile with a dynamic design evolution crafted by London-based creative agency bluemarlin.

The launch arrives three years after bluemarlin reimagined the Islands8 brand identity with a forward-looking system designed to evolve. That original vision now finds expression in a bold, fruit-led extension that captures the warmth and ease of Mediterranean living. The new variant infuses the gin’s signature botanical base with a juicy watermelon note, offering a brighter, more playful take suited to long, sunlit evenings.

Rooted firmly in its Maltese heritage, Islands8 derives its name from the eight indigenous botanicals that define its character: marjoram, thyme, rosemary, sage, dill, aniseed, fennel and mint. The addition of watermelon introduces a distinctive twist while maintaining the integrity of the original blend, balancing familiarity with innovation.

Bluemarlin’s design system has played a central role in enabling this expansion. Built to be both recognisable and flexible, it draws on elements of Malta’s visual culture, including traditional tiles, ironwork and coastal imagery. At its heart lies the brand’s iconic ‘8’, a device that has been deliberately crafted to open up new creative possibilities. For the watermelon edition, this visual space is brought to life through a vivid palette inspired by the fruit’s sun-drenched tones, evoking a sense of effortless island glamour.

The launch marks a significant moment for Islands8 as it strengthens its position within the market. The brand has been gaining traction as a preferred gin on the island and has extended its reach by being served onboard KM Malta Airlines, offering passengers an early taste of Maltese craftsmanship.

Samantha Dumont, Executive Creative Director at bluemarlin, noted that the project reflects the original intent behind the design. She said the brand system was created to explore new opportunities, adding that it is now demonstrating its capacity to grow with new variants, occasions and audiences.

Co-founder George Xuereb described the move into flavoured gin as a natural progression. He emphasised the importance of remaining true to the botanical identity while creating something more accessible and versatile. Watermelon, he added, remains relatively uncommon within the category, making it a distinctive and timely addition.

With its latest release, Islands8 not only broadens its flavour portfolio but also underscores the value of a design approach that anticipates change, positioning the brand for continued evolution in an increasingly competitive spirits market.