As has become the pattern, Howard contacted Nigel, Mein Host in advance to warn him of the monthly invasion form Glasgow. As ever he promised us an array of Light, Hoppy, Dry and Citrus Ales which would make the trip worthwhile. That Nigel has a preference for this style of Ale does help, his customers must love them too else he would never get way with the Board.
The party split at Waverley, those with free bus travel headed for their preferred mode of transport whilst the rest of us negotiated the mess that is Waverley Station and took the train the single stop to Musselburgh. Somehow the gang of eight arrived simultaneously. Neil, travelling from Linlithgow, was not far behind.
First up today was Buxton’s (Derbyshire) Kinder Downfall at 4.3%. Although I the correct style, it did not pack any punch flavour-wise. Oakham’s (Peterborough, Cambridgeshire) Scarlet Macaw at 4.4% was a guaranteed winner. First tasted last month in St. Albans, this could have been the session Ale of the day, sadly it went off as soon as we all raided the Tap.
‘Man you got to move on, man you’ve got to move…’
I did ask Craig when we were moving to Leith (as was his plan the first day we all came through to Musselburgh), apparently we were staying.
DJ was not with us, but is welcome to join us anytime…
We did not stray far, another Oakham classic Bishop’s Farewell at 4.6% was a perfect follow on. Now in any pub in Scotland this would be as good as one could hope for in one session, however, Nigel was not finished pleasing his customers – the Oakham Citra at a lesser 4.2% was a worthy follow on. Meanwhile George, The Duke of Hamilton, was attacking the Hawkshead (Staveley, Cumbria) USPA at a mighty 6% for much of the afternoon. George was a very Happy Chap this afternoon. Indeed I did end the day on this myself. Whilst not as outstanding at the equivalent NZPA this remains outstanding. The New Zealand Hops should be back with us soon…
Tempest’s (Scottish Borders) Long White Cloud at 5.6% was the most outstanding Ale at the end of last year as produced in Scotland. Somehow the Brewer lost his way and it lost its in your face assault, however, there are signs that it could be coming back to its best. We hope so.
Hector appears to have taken many photos of Yvonne today, something to do with a statement made by Craig before she was permitted to leave the house. I have limited the public to a soupscan.
Today we were joined by Colin Valentine, Mr. CAMRA himself, always a pleasure. And what does this say about The Staggs? Fancy giving customers what they want? It’ll never catch on. Graeme took a break from his bar duties and joined us for a pint. He had a publication with articles on the controversial Cask Return System. Graeme assured us that we could not be supplied with the quality of Ale we receive without it. So, he was in favour then.
As ever, there was interaction with the locals. Our faces are now recognised, they also know we tend to leave before the night shift comes in. We left, with dignity and headed for the 20.30 back to the Metropolis where sadly this range of Ale is not available.
LOL @ DJ!