John Phipps reviews a recent visit to the N. Yorks brewery

Late April we found ourselves in the market place at Helmsley with an hour to kill before opening time. So after the annual pilgrimage to the craft fair in the town hall, a decision had to be made. Fortunately armed with the GBG, and with a thirst to quench, we set off for the New Inn, Cropton, home of the Cropton brewery.

The journey lasted only twenty minutes and we arrived still knowing we had half an hour to wait. However, we jumped out of the vehicle and began to generally mill around when an open door was spotted. This lead us into the family bar and visitors area, where we were confronted with a "good morning, are you for the early brewery tour? if so, how many are there of you?" "Seven" was the reply. "..and if you would care to join with these other three we can start now and be in time for opening." This was music to all our ears.

I won’t go into the details of the brewing process as you all must know it by now, but I must state my admiration for the brewer and his craft in what can only be described as fairly hot, humid, and cramped working conditions.

Once the brewery tour was over we were taken back to the visitors area and given samples of the following brews: Backwoods bitter (4.7%), Uncle Sam’s (4.4%), and Two Pints bitter (4.0%). (There was also a honey based brew but I can’t remember the name). All these were finished off with relish.

By now the murmour of conversation and the chinking of glasses could be heard upstairs in the main bar. So after buying of souvenirs, we shot upstairs to be met with the full range of Cropton beers. Wow !!!

Being the conscientious types we started on the Two Pints bitter, then moved on to the Scoresby Stout (4.2%), then back to the excellent Backwoods bitter, and finally and without any doubt the dangerously drinkable Monkman’s Slaughter (6.0%).

The more frivolous side of our groups nature by now had begun to set in. Whilst Kevin was beginning to have us all worried by ordering a Bailey’s with ice, Brian (the sex machine) was playing hunt the barmaid. It was also noted that plates of traditional Sunday roast were being served, but due to a very large breakfast we declined.

Sadly our time was now at an end. We had to make tracks. A very big thanks to the staff for their hospitality. We hope to see you again soon.

Aug. '98