An Anglo Saxon fertility goddess Eostre is the inspiration behind Howard Town's Easter beer offer.
The 4.4% ABV ale is unique, according to the Glossop microbrewery's co-owner Tony Hulme, because unlike most chocolate ales it contains real chocolate and no essence or extract. It is also a light bitter rather than a dark stout, and it was created with the help of chocolate producer Slattery's.
"Along with my partner Peter Clarke I've been working on the recipe for well over a year, but it was only when we started working with Slattery's that it all came together," said Hulme. "Now the flavour's just right, with the fine balance of chocolate, bitterness and sweetness."
As well as the chocolate ale, Howard Town is again set to produce its Dragon's Nest bitter, to celebrate St George's Day on April 23.