Australia is on our mind right now - not just because we're sick of this cold winter, but because finger limes are amazing! David T. Smith gives us a look at That Boutique-y Gin Company Finger Lime Gin.

The last few years have seen a great increase in the number of Australian gins on the market. These spirits have helped to introduce the world to a host of previously unknown ingredients only found on the island continent, such as lemon myrtle, wattle seed and finger limes. It is the last of these that is particularly fascinating....

The finger lime (citrus australasica) is a citrus fruit similar in size, shape and appearance to a gherkin. Inside the fruit’s slightly crunchy skin are innumerous round, tangy globules that pop in the mouth with a zesty zing, hence their nickname: “lime caviar” - an apt description.

Finger limes are endemic to Australia and grow around the borders of Queensland and New South Wales. The plants are relatively short and thorny, and form part of the scrubland in the region.

The Gin

That Boutique-y Gin Company Finger Lime Gin is made using a mix of classic gin botanicals to which whole finger limes are added. The final product, bottled at 46% ABV, is a zesty and lively gin with a hint of intrigue.

The Label
The label shows a colourful array of cracked finger limes sat atop a mound of ripe juniper berries; the zesty caviar oozes forth from the fruit.

The Taste
Nose: Lemon and lime sherbert with a hint of violet and turkish delight.
Taste: A creamy mouthfeel with notes of vanilla and a mix of lime jelly and lemon posset, then a gentle hint of cinnamon spice and a touch of key lime pie before more dry, earthy notes.
Finish: A bright finish of lime zest; effervescent with a leafyness and a touch of pink peppercorn.

The Drinks

Finger Lime Buck
50ml Finger Lime Gin
150ml ginger ale
Twist of lime peel
Add ingredients to a tall, well-iced glass.

A long and refreshing drink with lots of oily citrus, a light creaminess and more floral citrus notes to finish. Bright and delicious.

Gimlet
50ml Finger Lime Gin
20ml lime cordial
Garnish with a thin piece of lime peel

Wowzers! That is a fine Gimlet. It really brings the various lime elements to life, producing a very vibrant drink with great depth that is both well-balanced and graceful. A must try.

Finger Lime Bracer
50ml Finger Lime Gin
25ml dry vermouth
10ml lemon juice
Shake ingredients vigorously with ice and fine strain into a cocktail glass. 

This is a dry, crisp cocktail that really allows some of the more nuanced, creamy aspects of the finger lime to come through.

DTS