ABBOTSBURY Subtropical Gardens is working with the Dorset microbrewery Gyle 59 to produce a special ale for its 250th anniversary this year.

The beer will be flavoured with Drimys lanceolata, also known as mountain pepper, an Australian rainforest shrub that grows in the gardens. Mountain pepper is used today as a bushfood condiment to spice curries. It is high in antioxidants and was once used to treat scurvy in sailors.

Jon Hosking, head brewer at Gyle 59, said: 'Mountain pepper has a wonderful aromatic and spicy flavour with a subtle kick. It's just right for this very special anniversary ale. It's a true exotic and thrives here at Abbotsbury.'

Jon recently visited the gardens to collect samples of mountain pepper for testing. He took clippings of both the Australian variety and a Chilean species, which also grows in the gardens.

'We'll be making an infusion in varying strengths and then taste testing to see which version will be best for the beer. We'll then know how much to infuse in the ale,' Jon explained.

In keeping with the historic theme, Abbotsbury's anniversary ale will adapt a traditional Victorian recipe and use a mix of Australian and English hops. It will be 3.7% ABV and available in bottles with a cask version on draft for special events. The beer will be launched in May.

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens were established in 1765 by Elizabeth, the first Countess of Ilchester, as a kitchen garden for her nearby castle. They are now among the best-known and best-loved gardens in Britain, Grade I Listed by English Heritage and filled with rare and exotic plants from across the world.

The gardens are open all year round - for further information and to buy tickets please ring the Abbotsbury Tourism office on (01305) 871130 or visit www.abbotsburygardens.co.uk where you can buy tickets in advance at a discount. Or just turn up at the gardens.