In my wanderings around
the South West of Scotland I stumbled across Criffel
Ale produced by the Sulwath Brewery. This page gives
you the opportunity to take a few walks in the countryside
of Dumfries and Galloway and to deserve your pint of
Criffel Ale in pleasant surroundings at the end of your
walk. Originally they were written to allow you to find
a pint straight from the barrel. The challenges of storage
mean that these days you are more likely only to find
it in the bottle. But worth the walk none the less.
The Sulwath Brewery used to be based at Southerness
on the edge of the Solway Firth, but has now moved inland
to Castle Douglas, where they have a Visitor Centre
on King Street. I know from experience you will be made
most welcome if you visit. The Brewery began in 1996,
and, in my view, produces two of the best Real Ales
in Britain.For the 'technically livered' I shall quote
from their publicity :
Criffel "is an Imperial Pale Ale (amber in colour)
using 'Nugget' hops, with 'Goldings' and 'Fuggies' for
heightened aftertaste and aroma, to produce a distinctive
4.6% ABV.
Knockendoch is a darker, copper coloured brew reflecting
an increased roasted malt content. Initial reaction
is the flavour of deeply roasted malts with a delicate
overlay of 'Challenger' hops -5% ABV.
The names derive from the twin granite hills, Criffel
and Knockendoch, that overlook the Solway and are the
dominant feature of the landscape from Gretna to the
Mull of Galloway.
Cuil Hill is a pale amber, light and refreshing summer
or session ale which simply bursts with the fresh tastes
of malt and hops. This allied to it's pleasant aroma,
is guaranteed to quench the most thirsty palate, yet
leaving you with the desire to explore it's full flavour
with a hint of bitterness, again and again.
Our first walk will take you to the top of both. Other
walks will take you around some of the best of the South
West of Scotland. There is no better way to enjoy a
good beer than after a good walk.
To investgate the walks click here
'I am one of the blind alleys
off the main road of procrastination'
These pages have been assembled to represent
some of the interests and knowledge I have accumulated over
the years.
If you would like to comment you may email
me (below)
