New Watermelon Lime & Mint Vodka Soda celebrates John Ball Zoo’s new North American River Otter habitat and supports Grand River conservation efforts
Grand Rapids, Michigan – Long Road Distillers is making a splash with the release of its newest ready- to-drink canned cocktail, Otter Watter, a crisp and refreshing Watermelon Lime & Mint Vodka Soda created in partnership with John Ball Zoo.
The limited-release collaboration celebrates the opening of John Ball Zoo’s new North American River Otter habitat, part of the Zoo’s Waters of the World experience, and supports ongoing conservation efforts focused on Grand River species and their habitats.
Made with Long Road Original Vodka, natural flavors, and zero added sweetener, Otter Watter comes in at just 100 calories, 5% alcohol by volume, and is naturally gluten free. Bright watermelon,
fresh lime, and cooling mint come together in a light, easy-drinking vodka soda built for summer sipping – and for supporting a cause close to home.
“Otter Watter is exactly the kind of project we love,” said Jon O’Connor, Co-Owner of Long Road Distillers. “It’s fun, refreshing, and unmistakably Michigan – but it also helps tell an important story about clean water, healthy habitats, and the species that depend on the Grand River watershed.”
John Ball Zoo’s new North American River Otter habitat was designed around the theme, “We All Need Clean Water,” highlighting the importance of water quality and conservation. The expanded
habitat is more than three times the size of the Zoo’s previous otter habitat, with larger pools, immersive viewing areas, animal enrichment features, and sustainable design elements that support
the Zoo’s broader conservation mission.
“North American river otters are playful, charismatic animals, but they’re also important indicators of the health of our waterways,” said Andy McIntyre, Chief Operations Officer of John Ball Zoo. “This collaboration with Long Road gives us a new way to connect people to the Grand River and inspire action to protect the habitats that otters and so many other species rely on.”
A portion of sales profits from Otter Watter will support the conservation of Grand River species and their habitats through local conservation initiatives.
“Grand Rapids has always shaped who we are as a company,” said Kyle VanStrien, Co-Owner of Long Road Distillers. “Partnering with John Ball Zoo on a product that celebrates our local waterways, supports conservation, and brings a little joy to people along the way felt like a natural fit. Plus, we couldn’t pass up the chance to make something called Otter Watter.”
Otter Watter joins Long Road’s growing lineup of ready-to-drink canned cocktails, crafted with the same intentionality and commitment to quality found throughout the distillery’s spirits and cocktail programs.
Otter Watter will be available beginning June 15 at Long Road Distillers’ tasting room locations, John Ball Zoo, and select retailers, bars, and restaurants across Michigan. Bars, restaurants, and retailers interested in carrying Otter Watter or other Long Road products are encouraged to contact their Imperial Beverage account manager.
Looking to find a 4-pack near you? Visit longroaddistillers.com/spirit-finder for an updated list of locations.
