The Best Beer I Drank This Week

This week, Brian heads to the Silos at Elk Street to discuss a beer that stopped him in his tracks. Typically known for their experimental sours and heavy-hitting hazies, BriarBrothers Brewing Company has quieted the noise with Reflections, a rice lager that might just be the pinnacle of their lager program to date.The Featured PourBrewery: BriarBrothers Brewing Company (The Silos at Elk Street)Beer: ReflectionsStyle: Rice LagerABV: 4.5%Brian’s Verdict: Quite possibly the best lager Dylan and Joel have ever produced. It is bright, translucent, and ultra-clean. At 4.5%, it’s dangerously drinkable—the kind of "page-turner" beer where the glass is empty before you even realize you’ve finished your first sip. Light, airy, and crisp, it’s a masterclass in the "clear beer" movement.Why It MattersRice lagers can be tricky; they often lack character or lean too far into being "just a light beer." Reflections, however, keeps a snappy, refreshing edge that makes it stand out in a city currently obsessed with technical lagers.The context makes this one even better. Brian paired his pint with a pie from Buffalo Deep Dish, the legendary Detroit/Chicago-style pizzeria now operating right inside the Silos. The crisp, dry finish of the rice lager is the perfect structural foil to a thick, buttery deep-dish crust. If you’re a "Briar Buddy" pass holder or just a local looking for the ultimate weekend pairing, this is the current gold standard in the Old First Ward. Don't Panic if you're a die-hard IPA fan—this lager has enough character to win over even the most skeptical palates.Connect With The LeagueWebsite: BuffaloBeerLeague.comHotline: 716-486-BEER (2337) — Tell us about the best beer you drank this week!Email: Brian@BuffaloBeerLeague.comSocials: @BuffaloBeerLeague (IG/Untappd/Threads) | @BuffBeerLeague (X)Support: Use BuffaloBeerLeague.com/Amazon to help us cover those rising hosting fees! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Brian heads down to the Old First Ward to visit the Frequentem Brewing Co. Buffalo taproom for a masterclass in lager traditionalism. While the hazy IPAs at their Louisiana Street spot are always a draw, it was the gleam of a side-pull tap and a dimple mug that stole the show this time. If you’re a fan of "clear beer" and meticulous technique, this is the pour you’ve been waiting for.The Featured PourBrewery: Frequentem Brewing Co. (Buffalo Taproom - Old First Ward)Beer: German Pilsner (Mandarina Bavaria Edition)Style: German PilsnerBrian’s Verdict: Utterly approachable and visually stunning. Poured via a traditional European Lukr side-pull tap into a dimple mug, this beer delivers a beautiful head and exceptional clarity. It’s light, featuring standout notes of bread crust and soft malt without being overly dry. A true "must-try" for lager enthusiasts.Why It MattersFrequentem (originally out of Canandaigua) has made a massive splash in the Buffalo scene since opening in the Barcalo Building. They are leaning hard into their horizontal lager tank program, and the results are crisp, clean, and technically sound.This specific iteration uses Mandarina Bavaria hops, which provide a delicate citrus backbone to the traditional bready pilsner profile. Beyond the recipe, the presentation matters. The side-pull pour creates a denser, creamier head and a smoother mouthfeel that changes the entire drinking experience. As Brian notes, the Renaissance of the side-pull in the Old First Ward is in full swing—Don't Panic if you're used to standard taps; one sip of this "wet foam" finish and you'll be a convert.Connect With The LeagueWebsite: BuffaloBeerLeague.comHotline: 716-486-BEER (2337) — Tell us about the best beer you drank this week!Email: Brian@BuffaloBeerLeague.comSocials: @BuffaloBeerLeague (IG/Untappd/Threads) | @BuffBeerLeague (X)Watch: Check out our new video content on the WNY Brews YouTube channel! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a short hiatus, Brian is back to recap one of the premier events on the Western New York craft calendar: the 2026 Brewer’s Invitational. Hosted at the stunning New York Beer Project Beer Lodge in Orchard Park, this year’s festival spread across three themed rooms, offering a masterclass in local brewing talent. Brian walks us through the standout pours, the award winners, and why the Beer Lodge is the perfect gauntlet for a world-class beer fest.The Featured PoursWhile Brian sampled his way through the entire venue, these were the absolute standouts from the Invitational:Brewery: New York Beer Project (Orchard Park/Lockport)Beer: Neverland PillsStyle: New Zealand PilsnerVerdict: Phenomenal. Bready and toasted with that signature tropical/citrus hop note from the NZ hops. A "super secret" side-pull pour in the brewhouse solidified this as a top-tier choice.Brewery: Brickyard Brewing Company (Lewiston)Beer: AdamantStyle: Barrel-Aged AdambierVerdict: A rare, historical treat. Complex and expertly executed by Rudy Watkins; a must-try for fans of deep, traditional styles.Brewery: New York Beer ProjectBeer: Spawn 2024Style: Coolship Wild Ale (Peach)Verdict: The most anticipated pour of the day. Delicate, tart, and effervescent with a light peach finish. Worth the year-and-a-half wait since brew day.Brewery: First Line Brewing (Orchard Park)Beer: Goose JuiceStyle: New England IPAVerdict: One of the best hazies from First Line to date, featuring the latest Veterans Blend hops.Why It MattersThe Brewer’s Invitational isn't just another festival; it’s a showcase of technical skill. This year highlighted the rise of Cannon’s Backwoods Brew from Little Valley, who took home the Winners Cup for their blueberry Mexican Lager, Caught the Blues. Additionally, Briar Brothers Brewing earned the Spirit of Imagination Award for their vibrant and inventive Punch Bowl Charmed.The move to the Beer Lodge has proven successful, providing a professional, spacious, and "built-for-beer" atmosphere that captures the best of the Buffalo scene. If you're tracking the growth of Southtowns brewing, this event is the definitive pulse check. Don't Panic if you missed it—Brian has the full breakdown of what you need to hunt down in cans and at the taprooms this spring.Connect With The LeagueWebsite: BuffaloBeerLeague.comHotline: 716-486-BEER (2337) — Call in and tell us the best beer you drank this week!Email: Brian@BuffaloBeerLeague.comSocials: @BuffaloBeerLeague (IG/Untappd) | @BuffBeerLeague (X)Support the Show: BuffaloBeerLeague.com/Amazon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are back in the cut for Season 3! To kick things off, Brian Campbell dives into a full recap of one of the highlights of the Western New York beer calendar: Barrel Jam 2026.Despite a brutal cold snap with highs of only 7°F, the Buffalo Beer League crew (Brian, Scott, Jesse, and Mark) trekked out to East Aurora to celebrate the sixth annual barrel-aged festival at 42 North Brewing Company. From high-gravity stouts to crisp cellar-aged lagers, Brian breaks down the standouts that survived the sub-zero temperatures.Inside This Episode:Station Identification: Brian sips on a fresh pint of Smolder Society’s "Strike Anywhere Into the Dark" (the Czech Dark version of their flagship Pilsner).The Pivot: How 42 North adapted when the "Rail Jam" and outdoor beer garden were sidelined by the weather.The Standouts: Deep dives into the lineups from Drowned Lands, Eli Fish, and Strange Bird.The Lone Ranger: A shout-out to the only IPA at the fest—Prison City’s DDH Mass Riot.Brian’s Top Picks from Barrel Jam 2026:Drowned Lands – Sylvan: A bourbon barrel-aged Sour Wild Ale aged on Raspberry. Clean fruit and perfect pucker.Strange Bird – Cathedral Windows: A 5.4% Barrel-aged Lager. The ultimate palate cleanser with great neutral oak notes.Eli Fish – Madame Edna (Peach): A farmhouse saison aged in barrels with peaches. Brian’s pick for the absolute best of the festival.Prison City – Earth, Wind, and Fodder: A standout foeder-aged lager that proves you don't need a high ABV to be world-class.Jack’s Abby – Framing Hammer (Coconut Rum): A heavy hitter that helped brave the 7-degree weather.The Buffalo Beer League Hotline:What is the best beer YOU drank this week? We want to hear from you! Call us, leave a message, and you might be featured on a future episode.📞 716-486-BEER (2337)Connect with the Buffalo Beer League:Website: BuffaloBeerLeague.comEmail Brian: Brian@BuffaloBeerLeague.comInstagram/Threads/Untappd: @BuffaloBeerLeagueX (Twitter): @BuffBeerLeagueFacebook: facebook.com/thebuffalobeerleagueSupport the Show: Use our Amazon Affiliate Link at BuffaloBeerLeague.com/amazon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Best Beer I Drank This Week, Brian heads back to the silos on Elk Street to revisit a brewery that has delivered hit after hit: Briar Brothers Brewing Company. It’s been too long since a Briar beer made it onto the show, so we’re fixing that today with their New England IPA Desk Pop — a soft, creamy, citrus-loaded hazy inspired by The Other Guys (yes, “aim for the bushes” makes an appearance).Brian talks about first grabbing a mixed four-pack during a recent brewery stop, how fast this one disappeared, and why he wishes he’d bought more. If you’re a hazy IPA fan or a Briar Brothers regular, this one should be on your radar.Beer DetailsDesk Pop – New England IPA Briar Brothers Brewing Company ABV: 7.5%Hops: Simcoe, El Dorado, Mosaic, Citra Flavors:Honeydew and cantaloupeDried tangerineSoft, pillowy mouthfeelSmooth tropical fruit and citrus layered over expressive hop characterWhat Brian Thought: A standout hazy from a brewery that rarely misses. Rich, creamy, extremely smooth finish, and a balance of hop expression + fruit flavors that pops (pun fully intended).Find ItDraft + cans at Briar Brothers Brewing Company (check for current availability — it goes fast). Located at The Silos at Elk Street, Buffalo.Support the PodcastFollow, like, subscribe — it all really helps!Facebook: facebook.com/TheBuffaloBeerLeagueX: @BuffBeerLeagueInstagram / Threads / Untappd: @BuffaloBeerLeagueRead: BuffaloBeerLeague.comEmail Brian: brian@buffalobeerleague.comOther ways to support:Rate & review (5⭐ goes a long way!)Amazon link: BuffaloBeerLeague.com/amazonBuffalo Beer League Hotline: 716-486-BEER Tell Brian the best beer YOU drank this week, and get featured on the show.ClosingThanks for hanging out for another episode! New beers and new episodes drop every Tuesday on The Best Beer I Drank This Week. Next week’s beer is already on Brian’s shortlist — see you then.Cheers! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Best Beer I Drank This Week, Brian spotlights a beautifully simple, elegant lager: Traditional, a Czech Pilsner from Belt Line Brewery & Kitchen. It’s the kind of pour that looks perfect in a dimpled mug with two fingers of foam—and tastes even better with Belt Line’s 716 Medium wings (a pairing you’ll hear more about in Brian’s upcoming taproom pairings piece).He first revisited it on a birthday brewery bus stop and has since gone back for multiple rounds. Expect a crisp, classic profile with just enough bready snap to keep you coming back.Beer DetailsTraditional – Czech/Bohemian Pilsner Belt Line Brewery & Kitchen — ABV: 4.8%Light, crisp, highly drinkableCracker malt, light bread crust/toast pointClean, slightly dry finish; elegant foam in a dimpled mugDraft at the brewery (check for current availability)Find ItOn draft at Belt Line Brewery & Kitchen. If/when cans appear, Brian’s grabbing them—so should you.Support the ShowFacebook: facebook.com/TheBuffaloBeerLeagueX: @BuffBeerLeagueInstagram/Threads/Untappd: @BuffaloBeerLeagueRead: BuffaloBeerLeague.comEmail Brian: brian@buffalobeerleague.comRate & review the show (5⭐ helps a ton)Amazon link: BuffaloBeerLeague.com/amazonCall the Hotline: 716-486-BEER — tell us your best beer this week! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode, Brian recaps Bottles & Bites at Statler Buffalo (Nov 13). He, Jesse, and Scott hit GA this year—easy entry, stellar venue, and a strong mix of food, beer, wine, and canned cocktails. Pre-game was at Southern Tier Buffalo (Mediterranean Burger + Ghost Note IPL = clutch).HighlightsBeer stops & standouts:Mystic Hills & Schulz Bräu to startHofbräuhaus Munich Oktoberfest (most-poured of the night)Big Ditch Kringle Juice IPA (keg kicked—drinking great)Resurgence Holiday Ale & Sipmo as the roaming pourFood bites (from memory… because they went fast):Chef’s stuffed shells; meatballsBeef on weck; open-face ReubensHofbräuhaus pretzels with beer cheese (until the cheese ran out)Hanson's sausageA surprise drunken pineapple upside-down cornbread that slappedVenue vibes: Statler remains an all-timer—opulent main hall, helpful mezzanine seating, live music, satellite bars. (Also wild personal note: same room as Brian’s high-school prom.)Room for ImprovementFor a 2.5-hour GA window (6–8:30pm), several food vendors began packing up 8:10–8:15; by 8:30 many were gone. That’s tough for attendees.More visible rinse/water stations would help, especially with beer → cocktails → wine hopping.Tips for Next YearConsider VIP if you want the widest food selection before lines/stock dip.Hit beer first, then food—then loop back for a dessert splash.If Statler opens the mezzanine, grab a perch early.Support the ShowFacebook: facebook.com/TheBuffaloBeerLeagueX: @BuffBeerLeagueInstagram/Threads/Untappd: @BuffaloBeerLeagueRead: BuffaloBeerLeague.comEmail Brian: brian@buffalobeerleague.comRate & review the showAmazon link: BuffaloBeerLeague.com/amazonHotline: 716-486-BEER — What was your Bottles & Bites favorite?ClosingThanks to everyone who said hi and to the folks who came because of Brian’s recs—means the world. Back next Tuesday with a beer-focused episode. Cheers! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode of The Best Beer I Drank This Week, Brian from the Buffalo Beer League spotlights a true Western New York classic: Premium Pilsner from Resurgence Brewing Company.This 5% Czech-style pilsner has become a staple pour around Buffalo, whether in cans, on draft, or—when you're lucky—on side-pull at places like Nickel City Cigars. Brian breaks down why this lager works in every format, what makes it different from Bridge Pils, and why he keeps going back to it.He also shares a few recent places he’s enjoyed it (including a fantasy-football beer prize) and explains why this may be the most consistently crushable lager in Resurgence’s lineup.Beer DetailsPremium Pilsner – Resurgence Brewing Company Style: Czech-Style Pilsner ABV: 5%Brewed with hand-selected Saaz hops and a triple-decoction mash for fuller mouthfeel and head retention. Floral, earthy, crisp, clean, and endlessly drinkable.How to Support the Show✅ Follow the Buffalo Beer League on social: Facebook: facebook.com/TheBuffaloBeerLeague X/Twitter: @BuffBeerLeague Instagram / Threads / Untappd: @BuffaloBeerLeague✅ Read the latest articles: BuffaloBeerLeague.com ✅ Email Brian anytime: brian@buffalobeerleague.com✅ Rate & review the podcast (it truly helps!) ✅ Use the Amazon link when you shop: BuffaloBeerLeague.com/amazon✅ Call the Buffalo Beer League Hotline & leave your beer of the week: 📞 716-486-BEER (Your calls may be featured on the show!) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello everyone! Brian from the Buffalo Beer League here with another edition of The Best Beer I Drank This Week!Before we dive into this week’s feature, I want to thank many friends at Iron Tug Brewing for calling into the Buffalo Beer League Hotline — love hearing from you! If you want to join in on the fun, you can call 716-486-BEER and leave me a voicemail about the best beer you drank this week. You might just hear yourself on a future episode.This week, I’m spotlighting Citra Snaps from Other Half Brewing, the latest entry in their incredible Snap Series of lagers. Brewed specially for Citra Week, this beer shows off one of craft beer’s most iconic hops in all its glory.Citra Snaps swaps out Mosaic and Saphir for 100% Citra hops, delivering bright, soft notes of orange, lychee, and tropical fruit. It’s 4.5% ABV, crisp, and clean — the kind of beer that reminds you how refreshing a well-made lager can be.I first had this one at my nephew’s birthday party, which doubles as our family Halloween celebration. My buddy Jesse brought some cans, and it quickly became the hit of the party. Everyone loved it — myself, Scott, Jesse, even our friend Kyle. If you’ve enjoyed other Snap Series beers like Poetry Snaps, Lime Snaps, Yuzu Snaps, or the classic Snaps, you’ll absolutely love this one.Each new version somehow seems better than the last, and for me, Citra Snaps is the best yet — bursting with hop character, easy-drinking, and perfect for any occasion.You can still find Citra Snaps on draft and in cans at Other Half Buffalo (inside Seneca One Tower). Grab it while you can — it was brewed in limited quantities for Citra Week!If you try it, or if you’re brewing something cool like our friends at Iron Tug, call the Buffalo Beer League Hotline at 716-486-BEER and let me know what you think.As always:Follow @BuffaloBeerLeague on Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, and UntappdVisit BuffaloBeerLeague.com for news, reviews, and eventsEmail me at Brian@BuffaloBeerLeague.comAnd please rate and review the podcast — five stars really help!Thanks for listening and for the great call-ins from Iron Tug Brewing! I’ll be back next Tuesday with another great local beer right here on the WNY Brews Podcast Channel.Cheers! 🍻 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello everyone, Brian from the Buffalo Beer League here with another edition of The Best Beer I Drank This Week!This week’s beer took me (and my wife) by surprise — Espresso Martini Nitro Milk Stout from Hamburg Brewing Company. Inspired by the trendy espresso martini cocktail, this 6.5% milk stout is brewed with espresso from Undergrounds Coffee and finished on nitro for that smooth, velvety body.Hamburg describes it as “a bold nitro milk stout with intense espresso flavor — a boozy hug that’s both indulgent and classy.” I’d say they nailed it. It opens with bold roast and coffee grounds, then layers in notes of chocolate, vanilla, and cream. The nitro gives it that soft, silky finish, making it incredibly drinkable for a dark beer. It’s rich, smooth, and surprisingly approachable — even if you’re not normally a stout drinker.This one was my standout from Hamburg’s Nitro Stout Six Mix, which also includes Nitro OMS (Oatmeal Milk Stout) and S’more Stout. The S’more was a close second, but the Espresso Martini stole the show for me. Big thanks to my friends at Hamburg Brewing and Content on Draft for having me out to celebrate the release.You can find the Nitro Stout Six Mix at the brewery or wherever great craft beer is sold — but supplies are limited, so grab it soon.If you’ve tried this beer, call the Buffalo Beer League Hotline at 716-486-BEER and let me know what you think!As always:Follow @BuffaloBeerLeague on Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, and UntappdVisit BuffaloBeerLeague.com for the latest articles and event coverageEmail me anytime at Brian@BuffaloBeerLeague.comAnd please, rate and review the show wherever you listen — five stars go a long way!Also, check out the newest stories on the site, including:Western New York Beer Trail’s 2026 Trail Pass releaseBottles & Bites returning November 13 at Statler BuffaloCollaboration 6 set for April 25, 2026And sadly, news on the upcoming closure of Monster Beach Brewery & Tiki BarThank you so much for listening — I’ll be back next week with another great local beer right here on the WNY Brews Podcast Channel.Cheers! 🍻 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello everyone, Brian from the Buffalo Beer League here with a brand-new edition of The Best Beer I Drank This Week!This week, I’m talking about a beer that completely surprised me — French Vanilla Brown Ale from Big Ditch Brewing Company. It wasn’t one I planned to order, but after a sample at the bar, I was blown away and had to dedicate this week’s episode to it.This 5.8% brown ale delivers exactly what the name promises — a perfectly balanced blend of toasty malt, coffee, chocolate, and creamy vanilla. It opens with a subtle roast character and smooth notes of coffee and cream, with that fresh vanilla bean flavor shining brightly all the way through. It’s medium-bodied, flavorful, and just plain easy to drink.It’s rare for a brown ale to stop me in my tracks, but this one did. It’s rich without being heavy, sweet without being cloying, and absolutely nails the “vanilla” part of the promise. If you’re heading to Big Ditch, grab a pint of French Vanilla Brown Ale (on tap now at their downtown location and possibly in Lockport as well).If you try it, let me know what you think — call the Buffalo Beer League Hotline at 716-486-BEER and tell me about it! I’d love to feature your thoughts in a future episode.As always:Follow us on all socials at @BuffaloBeerLeagueVisit BuffaloBeerLeague.com for new articles, event listings, and featuresEmail me at Brian@BuffaloBeerLeague.comAnd please, rate and review the show wherever you listen — five stars really help!Thanks for listening, and I’ll catch you next week with another great local beer right here on the WNY Brews Podcast Channel.Cheers! 🍻 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello everyone, Brian from the Buffalo Beer League here with another edition of The Best Beer I Drank This Week! With Western New York Beer Week underway, this week’s spotlight couldn’t be more fitting: Western New York Beer Week IPA — also known at some breweries as Be Good, Do Good Brew Beer.This 7% hazy New England IPA was a true collaboration, brewed by member breweries of the Western New York Brewers Guild. Featuring Mosaic, Nelson, Cryo Amarillo, T-45 Cascade, and El Dorado hops, it delivers layers of tropical fruit, citrus, stone fruit, and a touch of resin. I personally picked up notes of lemon-lime soda, orange creamsicle, and even star fruit — bright, juicy, and approachable, without drinking too heavy for its ABV.You can find Western New York Beer Week IPA on tap all week long at participating breweries across the region, including Resurgence, Big Ditch, Brickyard, Spotted Octopus, Brazen, First Line, Johnson’s Landing, New York Beer Project, Belt Line, and many more. For a complete list, check out BuffaloBeerLeague.com, where I also have a full article on the beer and the importance of Beer Week, featuring insights from Rob Haig (1927 Brewhouse / WNY Brewers Guild President).Western New York Beer Week runs now through October 5th, and alongside this collaboration beer there are tons of events happening. One highlight I’m especially looking forward to is the Tap & Craft Festival at Buffalo RiverWorks on Saturday, October 4th — a killer lineup of local favorites plus heavy hitters like Trillium, Dancing Gnome, Imprint, and more. Tickets and details at TapAndCraft.com.As always, don’t forget:Follow us on all socials at @BuffaloBeerLeagueRead the latest at BuffaloBeerLeague.comEmail me anytime at Brian@BuffaloBeerLeague.comAnd most importantly, call the Buffalo Beer League Hotline at 716-486-BEER to share the best beer you drank this week. I’d love to feature your pick on the podcast!Cheers to Beer Week, and cheers to keeping the lines of communication open through the beers we share. 🍻 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello everyone, Brian from the Buffalo Beer League here with another edition of The Best Beer I Drank This Week! With Western New York Beer Week underway, this week’s spotlight couldn’t be more fitting: Western New York Beer Week IPA — also known at some breweries as Be Good, Do Good Brew Beer.This 7% hazy New England IPA was a true collaboration, brewed by member breweries of the Western New York Brewers Guild. Featuring Mosaic, Nelson, Cryo Amarillo, T-45 Cascade, and El Dorado hops, it delivers layers of tropical fruit, citrus, stone fruit, and a touch of resin. I personally picked up notes of lemon-lime soda, orange creamsicle, and even star fruit — bright, juicy, and approachable, without drinking too heavy for its ABV.You can find Western New York Beer Week IPA on tap all week long at participating breweries across the region, including Resurgence, Big Ditch, Brickyard, Spotted Octopus, Brazen, First Line, Johnson’s Landing, New York Beer Project, Belt Line, and many more. For a complete list, check out BuffaloBeerLeague.com, where I also have a full article on the beer and the importance of Beer Week, featuring insights from Rob Haig (1927 Brewhouse / WNY Brewers Guild President).Western New York Beer Week runs now through October 5th, and alongside this collaboration beer there are tons of events happening. One highlight I’m especially looking forward to is the Tap & Craft Festival at Buffalo RiverWorks on Saturday, October 4th — a killer lineup of local favorites plus heavy hitters like Trillium, Dancing Gnome, Imprint, and more. Tickets and details at TapAndCraft.com.This episode is proudly sponsored by Tap & CraftThe Tap & Craft Festival returns to Buffalo RiverWorks on Saturday, October 4th for its 4th annual celebration. Expect an incredible lineup of breweries from across the country and right here in Western New York, plus food, music, and one of Buffalo’s best beer-drinking backdrops.Tickets are on sale now at TapAndCraft.com — VIP tickets are only $45 in advance ($50 day of) and get you four full hours of tasting. Don’t miss out on this showcase of world-class beer in the heart of Buffalo.As always, don’t forget:Follow us on all socials at @BuffaloBeerLeagueRead the latest at BuffaloBeerLeague.comEmail me anytime at Brian@BuffaloBeerLeague.comAnd most importantly, call the Buffalo Beer League Hotline at 716-486-BEER to share the best beer you drank this week. I’d love to feature your pick on the podcast!Cheers to Beer Week, and cheers to keeping the lines of communication open through the beers we share. 🍻 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of The Best Beer I Drank This Week is brought to you by The Tap and Craft Festival at Buffalo Riverworks on October 4th, presented by The Lock Tender. Ticket info is available now at BuffaloBeerLeague.com/tapandcraft.This week, Brian dives into Open Bags #7, a massive collaborative fruited sour brewed at Stoneyard Brewing in Brockport with contributions from more than 20 breweries and meaderies across New York including (deep breath): Johnsons's Landing, Irondequoit Beer Company, Brindle Haus Brewing Co., Brickyard Brewing Company, Brazen Brewing, Eli Fish Brewing Company, Swiftwater Brewing Co., Spotted Octopus Brewing, Solitude Brewing Company, Sager Beer Works, Resurgence Brewing Company, Noble Shepherd Craft Brewery, Nine Maidens Brewing Company, Lilly Belle Meads, Lake Drum Brewing, Keuka Brewing Company, Round Table Brewery, Rusty Nickel Brewing Co., Wagner Valley Brewing Company, Buffalo Brewing Company, and Knucklehead Craft Brewing. Packed with adjuncts like strawberry, peach, watermelon, mango, vanilla, and even lavender, this year’s version turned out to be the most approachable and best-tasting yet. Brian shares his impressions, where he tracked it down, and why this beer highlights what makes collaborations so fun.Don’t forget—you can share the best beer you drank this week by calling the Buffalo Beer League Hotline at 716-486-BEER. And keep up with all the latest Buffalo beer news at BuffaloBeerLeague.com. You can also reach us anytime at Brian@BuffaloBeerLeague.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello everyone, Brian from the Buffalo Beer League here with a brand-new edition of The Best Beer I Drank This Week! With fall arriving and Oktoberfest season in full swing, this week’s spotlight is on Wayland Brewing’s Oktoberfest Märzen (5.4%).This beer embodies everything I love about autumn. Brewed with Pilsner and Munich malt, hopped with Mittelfrüh, and lagered for six weeks, it pours smooth, toasty, and perfectly seasonal. I enjoyed it both on side-pull at the Orchard Park taproom (in a proper dimpled mug with two fingers of foam) and from cans at home. Each pour offered caramel malt, toasted bread, and toffee notes wrapped in a crisp, crushable body — though I’ll admit, the side-pull experience was my favorite.Wayland’s Oktoberfest is a shining example of why this season is the best in craft beer. Whether you’re sipping it fresh at the brewery or bringing home four-packs, it’s a beer worth seeking out before it disappears for the year.As always, you can find us online at BuffaloBeerLeague.com, follow along on all socials at @BuffaloBeerLeague, and drop me a line at Brian@BuffaloBeerLeague.com. Don’t forget to call the Buffalo Beer League Hotline at 716-486-BEER to share the best beer you drank this week — I’d love to feature your picks on the podcast!Cheers, and here’s to celebrating Oktoberfest season with a perfect Märzen. 🍻 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After an unexpected month-long break, Brian Campbell from the Buffalo Beer League is back with a brand-new edition of The Best Beer I Drank This Week. And this time, he’s holding onto summer a little longer with Raspberry Wheat from Community Beer Works.At 4.9% ABV, this wheat ale brewed with raspberries is light, crisp, and bursting with ripe berry flavor. Pouring a beautiful bright red, it’s refreshing, crushable, and the perfect beer to keep summer vibes alive—even as the days start getting shorter.Brian shares his tasting notes, why he prefers this release over CBW’s Sicilian Lemon Pils, and his long-standing love for the brewery’s adjuncted beers like Grapefruit Let’s Go Pils. He also reflects on why beers like Raspberry Wheat remind him not to rush out of the warmer months just yet.Beer Details:Beer: Raspberry WheatBrewery: Community Beer Works (Buffalo, NY)Style: Fruited Wheat AleABV: 4.9%Profile: Bright, berry-forward, refreshing, and highly drinkableAvailability: 6-packs of 12oz cans at Wegmans, Tops, Consumers, and other local retailersEpisode Highlights:Why this beer is perfect for extending summer drinking seasonNotes on its color, aroma, and fruit characterHow it compares to other CBW fruited lagers and adjuncted releasesWhy approachable fruited beers like this make great fridge staples📣 Call the Hotline: Tried Raspberry Wheat—or another beer you loved recently? Call the Buffalo Beer League Hotline at (716) 486-BEER and leave a voicemail with your pick. You might be featured on a future episode!📲 Follow & Support: 🌐 buffalobeerleague.com 📧 Brian@BuffaloBeerLeague.com 📱 Social: @BuffaloBeerLeague on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, and Untappd 🛒 Support the show when shopping Amazon: buffalobeerleague.com/amazon ⭐ Don’t forget to rate and review the podcast—5 stars makes a big difference!Thanks for tuning in! Whether you’re soaking up the last warm days of summer or just looking for a refreshing local option, CBW Raspberry Wheat is one to try. Cheers! 🍻 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Best Beer I Drank This Week, Brian from the Buffalo Beer League cracks into his first featured beer from Griffon Brewing—and it’s a juicy powerhouse. Tai Cheetah is an Imperial New England IPA clocking in at 8% ABV, brewed with a blend of Centennial, Mosaic, El Dorado, and Galaxy hops.Bursting with flavor, Tai Cheetah serves up bold notes of mandarin, white peach, apricot, and stone fruit, with a smooth body that somehow hides that high ABV a little too well. Brian breaks down the tasting experience, why this beer stands out among Griffon’s lineup, and how it pairs perfectly with backyard hangs, fridge restocks, and maybe a few questionable decisions.Also in this episode:Why Tai Cheetah won’t get lost in the back of your fridgeThoughts on Griffin’s other beers (like their Kellerbier and Full Nelson)A shoutout to Magic Bear and Consumers Beverages for stocking Griffon cansA plea to call the Buffalo Beer League Hotline with your own beer picks: 716-486-BEERBeer Details:Beer: Tai CheetahBrewery: Griffon Brewing (Youngstown, NY)Style: Imperial / Double New England IPAABV: 8%Flavors: Mandarin, white peach, apricot, stone fruitHops: Centennial, Mosaic, El Dorado, GalaxyRating: 4.02 on UntappdFollow & Support: 📍 buffalobeerleague.com 📲 @BuffaloBeerLeague everywhere 📧 Brian@BuffaloBeerLeague.com 📞 716-486-BEER – Leave a voicemail and be on the show! 🛒 buffalobeerleague.com/amazonNew beer. New episode. Every week. Cheers! 🍻 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Best Beer I Drank This Week, host Brian Campbell from the Buffalo Beer League celebrates a standout local lager that’s perfect for summer: Simon Pure Light from Buffalo Brewing Company. At just 3.5% ABV, this ultra-light American lager is crisp, clean, and incredibly drinkable—making it one of the lightest local lagers available and an absolute crusher for hot days, lawn mowing, or poolside sipping.Brian shares his personal experiences with the beer—from drinking it during yardwork to crushing it at parties—and explains why Simon Light has earned a top spot among Buffalo Brewing’s already excellent lineup of lagers.🍺 Featured Beer: Simon Pure Light – Buffalo Brewing CompanyAmerican Lager | 3.5% ABVCrisp, clean, and refreshingNotes of bread crust and biscuity maltLight-bodied but still holds a firm malt presenceAvailable in 12oz cans at the brewery (Myrtle Ave. Taproom)Why It Stands Out:One of the lightest lagers being brewed locally—not macro light, but real craft characterRetains the malt body of regular Simon Pure (4.5% ABV)Perfect for:Lawn care and yard workPoolside loungingBeer pong and yard gamesSessioning without feeling weighed downBrian's favorite quote: “It looks like a beer, it smells like a beer, and it tastes like a beer.”Shoutouts:Cheers to John Domres and the team at Buffalo Brewing for nailing this ultra-light lagerCongrats to the brewery for reaching their crowdfunding goal for a new chiller—more lagers coming soon!Look for Simon Pure Light in cans (and possibly on side-pull draft!) at the Myrtle Ave taproom📣 Call the Hotline: Tried Simon Pure Light? Got another beer to recommend? 📞 Call the Buffalo Beer League Hotline at (716) 486-BEER Leave a message with the best beer you drank this week, and you might be featured on a future episode!📲 Follow & Support: 🌐 buffalobeerleague.com 📧 Email: Brian@BuffaloBeerLeague.com 📱 Social: @BuffaloBeerLeague on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X (Twitter), and Untappd 🛒 Shop using our affiliate link: buffalobeerleague.com/amazon ⭐ Rate and review the podcast—5 stars goes a long way!Thanks for tuning in! Grab a few cans of Simon Pure Light while they last, and let Brian know what you think. Cheers to local lagers! 🍻 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

First off, huge thanks to Mark from Livingston County for calling the Buffalo Beer League Hotline and shouting out a lager from Fifth Frame Brewing as the best beer he drank this week! We love hearing from listeners, so keep those calls coming—(716) 486-BEER.In this episode of The Best Beer I Drank This Week, Brian Campbell from the Buffalo Beer League spotlights Patio Freak, a crushable hazy pale ale from Thin Man Brewery and Other Half Brewing. Clocking in at just 5.2% ABV, this one’s lighter than your typical Other Half IPA—and that's exactly what makes it shine.Originally sampled at the 2025 NYS Craft Beer Festival at Canalside, Patio Freak quickly became one of Brian’s festival highlights. With soft citrus notes, a creamy body, and an easy-drinking finish, it’s the kind of beer you want in your fridge all summer long.🍺 Featured Beer: Patio Freak – Thin Man x Other HalfHazy Pale Ale | 5.2% ABVHopped with Mosaic, Cashmere & CitraTasting notes: Lemon-lime soda, tangerine, orange, and a hint of fruity candySoft, creamy mouthfeel with a smooth, lightly resinous finishAvailable in cans and draft (check availability at Other Half Buffalo)Episode Highlights:Why Patio Freak’s 5.2% ABV is a breath of fresh airBrian reflects on tasting it at the NYS Craft Brewers FestivalComparison to Thin Man’s Super Freak (could this be a spinoff?)Hopes for more sessionable releases from Other HalfWhat makes this beer perfect for warm weather sipping📣 Share Your Pick of the Week: Big thanks again to Mark from Livingston County! Want to be featured on the show? Call the Buffalo Beer League Hotline at (716) 486-BEER and tell us about the best thing you drank—beer, cider, mead, seltzer, anything goes.📰 New at BuffaloBeerLeague.com:The Art of Spunding: Four local brewers (Brickyard, Buffalo Brewing, First Line, Hofbräuhaus) discuss naturally carbonating lagers.Craft Beer Golf Tournaments You Can’t Miss: A look at four fun, beer-filled tournaments from Buffalo to Batavia, including the WNY Brewers Guild event in August.📲 Connect & Support: 🌐 Website: buffalobeerleague.com 📧 Email: Brian@BuffaloBeerLeague.com 📱 Social: @BuffaloBeerLeague on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, and Untappd 🛒 Use our Amazon affiliate link: buffalobeerleague.com/amazon ⭐ Leave a rating and review wherever you listen—it helps a ton!Thanks for listening! Go grab a Patio Freak before it’s gone, and don’t forget to call the hotline with your own pick of the week. Cheers! 🍻 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Best Beer I Drank This Week, Brian Campbell from the Buffalo Beer League cracks open a new collab between Wayland Brewing and Moriarty Meats: La Bière, a crisp and flavorful French-style Pilsner brewed with Strisselspalt hops.Brian shares tasting notes, brewing details, and his experience exploring this lesser-known style for the first time. With its light floral aroma, subtle citrus sweetness, and biscuity malt backbone, La Bière lands at a super drinkable 4.5% ABV—ideal for warm weather and beer gardens alike.Beer Details: 🍺 La Bière – Wayland Brewing x Moriarty Meats 🇫🇷 French-style Pilsner | 4.5% ABV 🌾 Brewed with French Pilsner & Vienna malts 🌿 Hopped with Strisselspalt (mild, herbal, floral, citrusy) 📦 Available in 12oz six-packs and on draft at Wayland Brewing (Orchard Park, NY)Flavor Highlights:Bready, biscuity malt with subtle bread crustLight citrus sweetnessCrisp and refreshing finishEasy-drinking and well-suited for mowing the lawn, sitting outside, or pairing with grilled meats (especially from Moriarty Meats)Other Mentions:Brian’s thoughts on 12oz cans vs. other formatsAppreciation for Wayland’s clean, understated can art—this one featuring butcher cuts to reflect the collabPlans to enjoy the rest of his six-pack while working in the gardenGet Involved: 📞 Call the Buffalo Beer League Hotline at (716) 486-BEER Leave a message about the best thing you drank this week—beer, mead, cider, anything goes. You might be featured in a future episode!Follow & Support: 🌐 Website: buffalobeerleague.com 📧 Email: Brian@BuffaloBeerLeague.com 📱 Social: @BuffaloBeerLeague on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, and Untappd 🛒 Amazon link: buffalobeerleague.com/amazon ⭐ Rate & review the podcast to help others find it!Thanks for listening! Go grab some La Bière, and let Brian know what you think. Cheers! 🍻 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.