Croglin Vampire takes to the air

As All Hallows Eve arrives once more, signalling the real end of Summer, we restart our run of competitions with a spooky brew to chill your soul. 

Croglin Vampire is made by the delightful team at Cumbrian Legendary Ales, situated in the scenic soul of the Lake District, overlooking Esthwaite water near Hawkshead.

Talented Brewster, Hayley Barton works with brewery owner, the charming Roger Humphreys, to nurture this dramatically dark recipe.

Legend has it that a young maiden in the village of Croglin in north-east Cumbria was bothered by a  thirsty vampire in the late 17th century. He drew blood before being chased off by her brothers only to return one year later. This time her brothers chased the vampire to an old crypt where he was slain and the body burned. The village has been vampire-free ever since, but the legend lives on.

I have yet to see whether this beer – a malty, 8% Doppelbock with a rich depth – will ward off errant vampires, but can testify to its ability to keep the Autumnal chill out.

We have two prizes to give away, each comprising half-a-dozen bottles of Croglin Vampire along with a trio of Cumbrian Legendary Ale’s other beers, including the 2011 Champion Golden Ale of Britain, Loweswater Gold. While Croglin Vampire is all blood red and Dracula black, Loweswater Gold and the other CLA beers come in a much more serene livery, clothed in labels with the most beautiful Lakes photos. The beers possess a great clarity, with a good blend of malts and a friendly bitterness.

These ales obviously inspire in other ways too – Sarah Hayes will be wresting the World Record for fastest fastest marathon dressed as a bottle – Loweswater Gold in her case – from current Guinness  record-holder, Gill Begnor (Old Hookie, London Marathon 2010, since you ask) for her speedy run in the recent Chester marathon. 

Although not open to the public for general visits, its own pub, the Kirkstile Inn is a legend in its own national park. Located within sight of the dramatic fells and within striding distance of several lakes, the Kirkstile Inn has been offering board and lodging since Tudor times.

Although you can’t generally tour the brewery, you will find the CLA team out and about. In fact, this week, Loweswater Gold will be the opening ale at a special seven-course dinner being held at the Fayrer Garden House Hotel for the Cumbria Beer Appreciation Group.

For your chance to win a mixed Cumbrian Legendary Ales case, please click here and answer the question.

Good luck!

• Closing date: 14 November 2011
• One submission per person.
• The winner will be notified by email & the editor's decision is final.
• See Terms & Conditions for other information.