ABBOTSBURY Subtropical Gardens is brewing up a special ale to celebrate 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 up curries. It is high in antioxidants and was once used to treat scurvy in sailors.

Jon Hosking, head brewer at micro-brewery Gyle 59, who is making the ale, 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 per cent 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 well-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 abbotsbury gardens.co.uk where you can buy tickets in advance at a discount, or just turn up at the gardens.