Desert Island Drinks: Carmen O’Neal, 58 and Co.

Carmen O’Neal is the founder of 58 and Co. (formerly 58 Gin). The east London-based distillery produces a range of gins and vodka, and has a big focus on sustainability. It sources ‘wonky’ English fruit for its Apple and Hibiscus gin, and has recently revamped its distillery to ensure greater sustainability on-site. The company’s ethos and operations are informed by Carmen’s belief that a drink “should go beyond just a drink”, to become an experience that excites the drinker while doing good for others.

Carmen shares which gins she’d take to our desert island.

Gin #1: Four Pillars Bloody Shiraz

I do enjoy a glass of wine so Four Pillars Bloody Shiraz Gin would be my first go-to desert island gin to enjoy notes of their Yarra Valley Shiraz grapes alongside its incredible Rare Dry Gin.  Named International Gin Producer of the Year 2020 at the same time 58 was named UK Gin Producer of the Year by IWSC, I take my hat off to founders Cameron, Matt, and Stuart for the innovative liquids that they produce.

Gin #2: Caleno Light & Zesty Non-Alcoholic Tropical Gin

For me, it’s all about striking a balance in life, and so I would include a bottle of Caleno Light & Zesty Non-Alcoholic Tropical Gin in my suitcase. It boasts all the flavours that you would expect from a tropical drink – pineapple, papaya, lemon peel and more – and is also created by the fantastic and inspirational entrepreneur, Ellie Webb. 

Gin #3: 58 and Co. Navy Strength Gin

If I had to select one of our 58 and Co.’s own spirits to keep me company on a desert island, it would be our award-winning Navy Strength Gin. Bottled at 58% ABV, your gin will go further without compromising on taste. Full-bodied, characterful but with all the finesse and balance of our London Dry Gin, it features delicate flavours of citrus and creamy coriander making it the natural base for a range of mixed drinks – so you would never grow bored.

Cocktail: 58 & Co. Tom Collins

58 and Co.’s flagship London Dry Gin, lemon juice, sugar syrup and soda: the ideal cocktail to keep you hydrated and nicely mellow on a desert island! Given its refreshing qualities provided by the lemon’s citrus, this is a drink that can be enjoyed at any time of the day and will always be a winner for sunnier climes.