The investment aims to accelerate the brand’s expansion into international markets, particularly North America, and to enhance its e-commerce capabilities.

Founded in 2020 by Hannah Fisher, Tongue in Peat has carved a unique niche in the cocktail mixer industry with its cold-smoked tomato juice, infused for 12 hours with Islay peat smoke. The innovative process is claimed to offer a “richer, deeper and more complex taste”, ideally suited for high-quality Bloody Mary cocktails.

Ms Fisher had previously secured £100,000 in seed investment from drinks industry veteran Chris Cosh, formerly a director at Wallaces Express, who also serves as the head of commercial for the brand.

Bruce Casely, chief investment officer for Ruby Capital, explained why they wanted to invest in this premium cocktail mixer.

He said: “At Ruby we are keen to support emerging business talent and superb products. We think Hannah and the team at Tongue in Peat have both a great product and an exciting future.

“We support a diverse range of companies where we think we can add value and we are looking forward to helping develop the world’s best Bloody Mary mixer!”

Hannah Fisher

Hannah Fisher, creator of Tongue in Peat, said: “We have been extremely lucky to have investors who not only bring significant drinks experience to the Board but are passionately committed to our success, continually offering hands on support.”

The additional investment will ensure Tongue In Peat has the resources to fulfil its potential by supporting its growth in London On Trade, E-Commerce and entering the North American market – the home of the Bloody Mary.

Tongue in Peat is already available in prestigious UK hospitality venues, including the entire Hawksmoor estate, Gleneagles, The Torridon and Mayfair Town House. The brand, hand-crafted by a 12-member team in Inverclyde, has won multiple awards, including three Great Taste awards and the title of the UK’s Best Bloody Mary mixer.