Definitely Not a Lost Cause!

Lost Cause – A Special Brewing Collab

Last week, we had the absolute pleasure of welcoming Colin Stronge to our brewery for an exciting two-brew collaboration!

If you’re into craft beer, chances are you’ve already tasted some of Colin’s exceptional work. He’s a legend on the UK brewing scene, with over 20 years of experience at top breweries like Marble, Black Isle, Buxton, and Salt Beer Factory. In 2022, he was named Brewer’s Journal Brewer of the Year – not bad for someone who originally planned to be an architect but “accidentally” fell into brewing while working at a brewpub to fund his studies!

Now, alongside his wife (and creative genius) Vik, Colin runs Lost Cause Brewing. As they gear up to launch their own brewery (check out their crowd funder here!), Colin has been collaborating with breweries across the UK, experimenting with exciting new recipes. We were thrilled that he chose to brew with us!

A Packed Brew Day 

Since we had a packed brew day ahead, we kicked off bright and early with a mash-in on our full-size kit. Inspired by the success of our Victorian Porter (brewed with Titanic in December), we decided to create a Traditional 6.0% ABV Ruby Mild – Brickyard Stronge Ruby Mild. We’re all big fans of Sarah Hughes Dark Ruby, so this rich, malty, and deeply satisfying beer is our little tribute to a true classic.

It was then onto the pilot kit to mash in a special Belgian Quad. The pilot kit is the perfect excuse to brew, as our recipe development brewer Danny puts it “something silly”. Colin’s renowned for his Imperial Stouts but he and Danny decided to mix it up a bit and go for a 10% Belgian Quad. The mash was literally filled to the brim with tasty malt, and the inclusion of invert sugar promises to make this a decadent, rich, dark, and fruity ale.

Get Ready for the Castle Beer Festival

You’ll be able to try both of the beers at The Nottingham Independents’ Castle Beer Festival due to be held at Nottingham Castle on the 4th and 5th of April. We can’t wait to share them with you – hope to see you there!