Gin has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, with consumers all over the world becoming more interested in this versatile spirit. Gin is being consumed in increasing numbers by people of all ages and backgrounds, ranging from traditional London Dry gin to new and innovative flavoured varieties. In this article, we’ll look at one specific gin and investigate its distinct flavour profile in today’s crowded gin market.
This is of course the new Wild Hibiscus Deep Dark Red Finger Lime Gin from Gingle Bells. Helmed by entrepreneur Lee Etherington, they have created the most premium bottle of gin in the country, which retails at AUD 150 (USD 104) per 750ml bottle.
In recent years, Australia has emerged as a significant player in the world of gin, with a number of local distilleries producing high-quality, award-winning gin. Many of these distilleries use native Australian botanicals like lemon myrtle, Tasmanian pepperberry, and native juniper to create unique and distinct flavours that are attracting the attention of gin lovers all over the world. The Gingle Bells gin is no different using the pink finger lime, which has petite-sized pearls that release an aromatic burst of hibiscus, ginger and a medley of Hawkesbury-grown citrus.
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The Australian gin scene is also known for its experimental approach to gin production, with many distilleries pushing the limits of what this spirit is capable of. It’s no surprise that with the growing popularity of gin and the growing reputation of Australian gins, the country is quickly becoming a destination for gin enthusiasts to explore.
About the Wild Hibiscus Deep Dark Red Finger Lime Gin
In an industry that is becoming increasingly popular, ‘gin-trepreneur’ Lee Etherington has distinguished himself and his distillery, Wild Hibiscus Distilling Co. Gingle Bells Finger Lime Gin 750mls Bottles took four years and $1.6 million in research to master due to his innovative production process and unique appearance. It is the most expensive gin in the country, costing $150 per bottle.
Lee has added to the Gin Bottles collection with his latest concoction, the Deep Dark Red Finger Lime Gin, after 11 years of growing pink finger lime trees on his farm. The Deep Dark Red Finger Lime Gin is a bold and dark gin with exquisite pops of suspended finger lime caviar.
Pink finger limes are smaller than typical finger limes and have petite-sized pearls that release an aromatic burst of hibiscus, ginger, and a medley of Hawkesbury-grown citrus. This gin can be served over ice, paired with your favourite tonic, ginger ale/beer, or used in cocktails.
The review
To me, the Wild Hibiscus Deep Dark Red Finger Lime Gin represents a new era of bolder, flashier and more ambitious premium gins. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first received a bottle from the Aussie distillery in the mail. But boy, was I in for a wild ride.
The initial impression of the Deep Dark Red Finger Lime Gin
The first thing that makes this gin stand out is how it’s presented to you: you’ll quickly notice the blood-red hibiscus texture of the gin shines through its striking bottle. But it’s not just the colour that will catch you off guard – you’ll notice floaty round things that make the bottle resemble a funky, booze-filled lava lamp. These “floaty round things” are actually the caviar of pink finger limes (native Australian fruits – YouTube it, it’s cool!) that pop in your mouth when you bite them.
But do these bells and whistles make it worth the money?
Let’s start with the flavour profile. Apparently, each bottle takes 18 months to produce, with “9 months to grow and nurture the fruit and another 9 to gently and skillfully convert the caviar to contain 40% alcohol gin and retain their dark pink colour.” In other words: a whole lot of love was put into this gin to make sure it tastes really, really good.
Pairing it with a tonic
I decided to conduct my taste test with a classic gin and tonic – I was immediately impressed by the depth of flavour. The gin is made with a blend of traditional juniper and botanicals, but it’s the wild hibiscus flower that really sets it apart. The floral notes are prominent, but not overpowering, and are perfectly balanced with the juniper and other botanicals. With the tart raspberry rhubarb flavour of wild hibiscus flowers and a rich undertone of Queensland ginger and juniper, this gin is unique, intense and satisfying.
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Besides the flavour of the gin, I want to remind you of how impressive the drink looks in a glass. It’s bold and provocative, and the caviar provides excellent talking points for visitors and friends (and the fact that you can say, “That’s caviar you’re drinking, you know.”). Even upon a single glance, you’ll be quick to realise that you won’t be drinking a subtle drink.
The verdict
Besides being a mouthful to say, the Wild Hibiscus Deep Dark Red Finger Lime Gin is an excellent premium gin whose flavour profile lives up to its flashy exterior. It’s clear that a lot of effort has been put into perfecting this gin, and its delightful mix of flavours give the gin the flexibility to be served on the rocks or as a part of a cocktail – you have my permission to experiment to your heart’s content.
Even if you’re not a gin fan, its characteristic appearance can make it an impressive gift for friends, family and anyone in between.
