Mr. Goodbar Rolls Out the Casks for Rest of 2025

There will be cask beer galore for the rest of the year at Mr. Goodbar. The annual VIP Cask Fest returns on Thursday, Dec. 4. Tickets include tastings of cask beers from 42 North Brewing, Flying Bison, Old First Ward Brewing, Smoldered Society, Big Ditch, Community Beer Works, Thin Man Brewery, Autark Brewhouse and Brickyard Brewing with more breweries to be announced, along with the official beer list. Tickets also include a tasting glass and food from Hanzlian’s sausage. Tickets can be purchased in person at Mr. Goodbar.

There will also be weekly cask tappings throughout November. On Nov. 7, there will be a cask of Britesmith Brewing  Mind The Gap English IPA, Brickyard Brewing Thoughts on Eternity Dark Mild on Nov. 14, Brickyard Winter Ale on Nov. 21 and another cask (TBD) on Nov. 28.

The Winter Cask Festival, which features rotating casks all weekend long from local and national breweries, will return this year on Dec. 5-7. The beer and brewery list will be announced soon. The event is free and open to the public. Beer can be purchased ala carte.

Vendors Announced For Bottles & Bites at Statler Buffalo

Food and craft beverage vendors have been announced for Bottles & Bites, one of Western New York’s premiere food and craft beverage sampling events, which takes place at Statler Buffalo on Thursday, Nov. 13. There will be food tastings from Trattoria Aroma, Chef’s, Hanzlian’s Sausage, Mike’s Subs, Muscoreil’s and more, craft beverage samplings from Mystic Hills, Hofbrauhaus, Big Ditch, Shalooby Loofer, 1911 Established and  Mead People 716. VIP tickets ($50 in advance, $60 day of) include early entry, exclusive VIP area, reserve beverage selection and commemorative glass and General Admission ($30 in advance, $40 day of) include all samplings and glass. The event runs from 6 pm to 8:30 pm with early VIP entry at 5 pm. You can purchase tickets here.

Buffalo Brewing’s Grand Opening of Hanai Hawaiian BBQ

Buffalo Brewing Company is celebrating the grand opening of Hānai Hawaiian BBQ, located inside their Myrtle Avenue taproom, on Friday, Oct. 31 with new expanded hours (Wednesday – Saturday, 12 – 8 pm) and special tappings of 36-month wood-lagered Refined Simplicity Czech Dark Lager and the traditional Refined Simplicity on LUKR side pull taps, as well as a gravity cask of cellar-fresh 1910 Czech Pils, at noon. Moving forward, Hānai Hawaiian BBQ will be available at Buffalo Brewing Company every week. They specialize in Hawaiian and Polynesian BBQ food. You can find more information here.

21th Annual Holiday Valley Beer & Wine Fest in Ellicottville

The Holiday Valley Beer & Wine Festival returns for a 21^st year on Nov. 8 (3-7 pm, Main Lodge) will feature tastings from many of the region’s best craft breweries, wineries and cideries, including Ellicottville Brewing, Pressure Drop Brewing, 42 North Brewing, South Wales Brewing, Big Ditch, Frequentem Brewing, Brazen Brewing, East Aurora Brewing, First Line, Britesmith Brewing, Resurgence Brewing, Southern Tier and more. There will also be live music from Darkwater Duo, Mayday Buffalo, and Second Hand News. Tickets are $75 ($20 for designated drivers). You can purchase tickets here.

Wayland Brewing, Queen City Vintage Partner on New Beer

Wayland Brewing and Queen City Vintage have teamed up on a new beer for Buffalo Bills gamedays – Welcome to Buffalo, a 4% clean, crisp and crushable lager brewed with Citra hops. The beer will be available this weekend at Queen City Vintage at a special Wayland Brewing pop-up, which will feature cans of Welcome to Buffalo Lager, as well as new merch at the shop, located at 746 Elmwood Avenue in Buffalo. For more information, visit https://queencityvintage.com. The beer will also be available at the brewery.

New Fruited Sours From Thin Man Brewery, Southern Tier

Both Thin Man and Southern Tier have released new fruited sours in cans and on draft. Southern Tier Brewing Buffalo has tapped Strawberry Letter 32, a 4.5% sour that pours a vibrant pink color and features notes of ripe strawberry and bright lemon with a tart finish. The beer is available now at the taproom. All pints of BUF Brew’d beers are $2 off on Mondays.

Thin Man has released Uncrust-A-Boodle, a new 7% peanut butter and jelly version of their Minkey Boodle inspired by everyone favorite crustless sandwiches with notes of jammy raspberry and smooth peanut butter. Look for Uncrust-A-Boodle in 16oz. 4-pack cans wherever great craft beer is sold around Western New York.

Brian Campbell is co-founder and Brand Manager of the Buffalo Beer League, and writes the weekly Buffalo Beer Buzz column. If you have beer news that should be included in the Beer Buzz, Brian can be reached at brian@buffalobeerleague.com, on X (@buffbeerleague), Instagram, Threads and Untappd (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

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Hofbrauhaus Buffalo to Celebrate Five Year Anniversary

It’s been half a decade of all-things German beer, food and music at Hofbrauhaus Buffalo, and the brewery will celebrate the special milestone on Sunday, September 21 (4-7 pm). The party will feature live music from Die Haus Band, $10 Bavarian Buffet (pre-purchase here, free for Stein Club members and investors), all-ages Bavarian Bingo: PROST edition (5 pm), and plenty of authentic German beer and food to go around. Reservations are required and can be made here.

Pumkingfest 2025 Returns to Southern Tier Buffalo

Southern Tier Brewing Buffalo will celebrate Pumkingfest 2025 all day on September 20, starting at 11 am. There will be a number of specials during the event including a shot and beer combo (12oz. Pumking and shot of Pumking whiskey), Pumking flight, Pumking cocktails, games upstairs such as cornhole, giant Jenga and more, limited edition Pumking merchandise, giveaways, three ‘legendary’ Pumking releases and two variants and more. The event is free and open to the

3^rd Annual Oktoberfest at Wayland Brewing

Oktoberfest is coming to Wayland Brewing, September 19-21. All weekend long, beer steins are $30 (includes first fill) and $12 additional fills of Oktoberfest, Waylander and Especial. There will be live music by Frankturers (7-9 pm) Friday and a Stein Holding Contest, Pugtoberfest, face painting and live music by The Polka Boys: Die Haus Duo (6-9 pm) Saturday and an Artisan Market in Wayland Hall, Stein Holding Contest, axe throwing by Hachet & Hops, face painting and live music by VOYGR (2-4 pm) on Sunday. There will also be food specials. The event is free and open to the public.

Breweries Announced for Fourth Annual Tap & Craft Festival

Breweries have been announced for the fourth annual Tap & Craft Festival, Saturday, Oct. 4 at Buffalo Riverworks. Set to pour at the festival are Other Half, BriarBrothers, Brewery Ardennes, Mortalis, Eli Fish, Imprint Beer, Heavy Reel, Urban Artifact, Trillium, Drekker, Dancing Gnome, Resident Culture, Maine Beer, Strangebird, Rising Storm, The Drowned Lands, Evil Twin, Brazen, Spotted Octopus, Pearl Street and more. There will also be live music from Buffalo Dead Alliance. VIP tickets ($45, pre-sale only) include tasting glass, four hours of sampling, VIP-only tastings, pretzel necklace and more, and General Admission ($35, pre-sale, $50, day of) include tasting glass and samplings. Designated Driver tickets are available for $10. You can purchase tickets here.

Dude’s Homebrew Competition at Resurgence Brewing

The 11^th annual Dude’s Homebrew Competition, which raises money every year for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, will take place September 21 (12-3pm) at Resurgence Brewing. Homebrewers will serve samples of their beer to attendees, who will vote for their favorite beer, which will be judged by a panel of local brewers. For a $30 donation to blood cancer research, you can taste dozens of homebrewed beers and receive a free tasting glass. To purchase tickets, and to get more information, click here.

Big Ditch Tap Takeover at Nickel City Cigars

Big Ditch Brewing is taking their talents to Nickel City Cigars for a special tap takeover on Friday, September 19 (7-10 pm). There will be a meet & greet with Kate from Big Ditch, flight and pint specials on Big Ditch beers, raffles, free food , giveaways, including complimentary Big Ditch pint glasses, cigar deals, cigar/beer pairing menu, DJWho (9 pm-midnight) and more. The event is free for Nickel City Club members and $5 for non-members. Nickel City Cigars is located at 284 Franklin Street in Buffalo. You can find more information here.

Fattey Beer Co. Opens New Amherst Location

Fattey Beer Co. has opened a new location in Amherst, located at 1260 Sweet Home Road. The 2,200 square foot space, located in a building that also houses John Shaflucas Architects, features Fattey’s signature craft beer bar and bottle shop, as well as an outdoor patio. The new site is dog-friendly, and features a small food menu, including their signature chicken sandwiches and a new cheeseburger. Fattey Beer Amherst is open daily; 12-10:30 pm. Fattey Beer also operates locations in Buffalo, Hamburg, Kenmore, Lancaster, Orchard Park, Westerville, Ohio, Rochester, and North Tonawanda. You can find more information at https://fatteybeer.com.

Fall Tasting Event at Bev Depot

Bev Depot in Cheektowaga is hosting a Fall Tasting event on September 20 (12-3 pm). The event will feature samplings from Mortalis, Big Ditch, Hofbrauhaus, Thin Man, Eli Fish, 42 North and more. There will also be hard seltzers, malt beverages, non-alcoholic options and more. Bev Depot is located at 2190 Walden Avenue and features more than 2,000 SKUs of beer, including a large selection of local options and a create-your-own 4-pack section. Bev Depot also offers some food options, mixers and soda. Bev Depot is open Monday – Sunday, 9 am – 10 pm.

Brian Campbell is co-founder and Brand Manager of the Buffalo Beer League, and writes the weekly Buffalo Beer Buzz column. If you have beer news that should be included in the Beer Buzz, Brian can be reached at brian@buffalobeerleague.com, on X (@buffbeerleague), Instagram, Threads and Untappd (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

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Shuffle City Brewing Coming to Lockport This Fall

The craft beer community in Lockport will expand this fall with the opening of Shuffle City Brewing at 13 West Main Street, formerly Kendzies Bowling Alley. The new brewery will feature head brewer Colin Herzog, who is leaving Flying Bison Brewing to craft beer (and more) in Lock City. Herzog says he is also excited to dive deep into the non-alcoholic side of things. Shuffle City says that they are geared towards providing a different taproom experience for everyone who walks through their doors. Stay tuned to https://www.shufflecitybrewing.com/ for more information. You can also follow along with any and all updates on their Facebook page.

Resurgence Brewing Launches New Vodka Canned Cocktails

Resurgence Brewing is expanding their footprint with a brand new vodka soda canned cocktail line, Brightside Vibes. This new 4.8% craft beverage is brewed with real fruit juice and cane sugar and will be available in two variety packs. The standard variety pack includes Blackberry/Lime, Pineapple/Passionfruit, Raspberry/Lemon and Tangerine/Strawberry, while the Tailgate Pack includes Tailgate Crush (Peach/Clementine), Blackberry/Lime, Pineapple/Passionfruit, and Tangerine/Strawberry. You can find Brightside Vibes at Resurgence’s taproom, as well as liquor stores around Western New York, wherever great craft canned cocktails are sold.

Bills-Themed Beers Returns Ahead of Start of Preseason 

Just in time for the start of the Buffalo Bills’ preseason this Saturday against the New York Giants, a number of Bills-themed beers have returned to brewery and store shelves across Western New York. In addition to staples such as Thin Man Pills Mafia and Community Beer Works Let’s Go Pils, Resurgence Brewing Circle the Wagons Pilsner & IPA, Ellicottville Brewing The Charge American Lager and Tailgate Time IPA, Brickyard Brewing Just One Before I Die IPA, Southern Tier Brewing IPA: Limited Buffalo Edition, to name a few, are available now. Look for these beers wherever great beer is sold.

Watch Hard Knocks With the Bills at Southern Tier Buffalo

It’s no small secret that the Buffalo Bills will be featured on this season of HBO’s “Hard Knocks: Training Camp” and you can watch the show at Southern Tier Brewing Buffalo every Tuesday at 9 pm. On August 12, 19, 26 and September 2, you can enjoy specialty cocktails and $2 off BUF Brew’d beers during each episode. Reservations are encouraged and can be made here. The new season of HBO’s “Hard Knocks: Training Camp” premiered on August 5. Get in the football mindset with your crew, your favorite brews, and all the behind-the-scenes action.

Celebrate One Year With The Lock Tender

Lockport beer bar The Lock Tender is turning one and is celebrating with a massive tasting event featuring more than 25 beers, wines and ciders. On August 9 (4-7 pm), the event will feature a 3-hour tasting (15 6oz. samples) with Dancing Gnome, Other Half, Maine, Drekker, Weldwerks, Foam Brewers, Brickyard Brewing, Mortalis Brewing, Wild East, Buffalo Brewing, Resurgence Brewing, Beer Tree and more, live music, a special tasting glass, food specials for ticket holders (10% off your food bill) and 10% off any to-go and merchandise orders over $20. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased at the bar in-person or online at www.thelocktender.com/events.

Hofbrauhaus to Tap Sommerzwickel, Pedal Tour Giveaway

Hofbrauhaus will tap a barrel of Sommerzwickel on August 7. Sommerzwickel is a 4.9% unfiltered white lager brewed with Weyermann Malting’s “Barke” barley and Herkules and Diamant hops to create orange blossom honey aromas and flavors. Guests in attendance will receive a complimentary Sommerzwickl after the barrel is tapped. Reservations can be made at www.hofbrauhausbuffalo.com or by calling (716) 939-2337.

The brewery is also giving away an Oktoberfest Pedal Tour for you and 14 friends during the month of August, featuring Buffalo Pedal Tours and Oktoberfest favorites from Hofbräuhaus ($800 value). To take part, you can only enter in person at the taproom. The prize must be redeemed during Oktoberfest (9/12–10/24) and will be based on Buffalo Pedal Tours’ availability. No purchase necessary — just show up and throw your name in the bucket. You can enter at the table set up in the bathroom hallway.

New Pils From Smoldered Society and Frequentem Brewing

Smoldered Society and Frequentem Brewing have teamed up once again on a collaborative lager, Engineered Hysteria Zested Pilsner. The 3.9% beer was brewed with Saaz and Motueka hops and fresh lemon zest in the boil, and then was cold conditioned on oak spirals. Engineered Hysteria Zested Pilsner will be available soon in 16oz. 4-pack cans wherever Smoldered Society beer is sold.

Brian Campbell is co-founder and Brand Manager of the Buffalo Beer League, and writes the weekly Buffalo Beer Buzz column. If you have beer news that should be included in the Beer Buzz, Brian can be reached at brian@buffalobeerleague.com, on X (@buffbeerleague), Instagram, Threads and Untappd (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Shuffle City Brewing, Brightside Vibes, Buffalo Bills Beers, Hard Knocks, Smoldered Society x Frequentem Lager, Lock Tender Anniversary, Hofbrauhaus Sommerzwickel & Giveaway appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

2X Jam at Southern Tier Brewing Buffalo

Southern Tier Brewing is bringing their 2X Jam, the ultimate celebration of their 2X Series, to their Buffalo taproom on June 14. The event will feature special 2X-infused food specials, $1 off all Southern Tier 2X beers all day long, live music from Furious George (3–6 pm) and Uncovered (7–10 pm), local craft vendors, games including a 2XScavenger Hunt with prizes and giveaways, and limited-edition festival shirts. Southern Tier’s 2X Jam is free and open to the public.

New York Beer Project Beer Lodge 1^st Anniversary Party

New York Beer Project’s Beer Lodge in Orchard Party is already turning one and they are celebrating their first year in business on June 14 (11 am). “Come celebrate with us this Saturday as we reflect on an amazing year of good beer, good food, good times, and, most importantly, you!” the brewery said. “We wouldn’t be here without you! So, come pull up a barstool in our Brewer’s Club, enjoy a pint of OP Lager by the fire, or chill with friends in the Grove this Saturday. The beer will be flowing!” The event is free to attend.

Lilly Belle Meads, Til Brewing Offer Growler Specials

Lilly Belle Meads and Til Brewing in Lancaster are now offering specials on growler fills of mead and beer. You can purchase a 32oz. growler fill of any session strength meads for $14 and craft beer for $10. If you are looking for something a bit bigger, a 64oz. mead fill is $23 and a 64oz. beer fill is $18. If you are interested in grabbing one of these specials, you must bring your own growler, as Lilly Belle/Til does not stock their own.

Friday the 13^th at Mortalis Brewing Buffalo

With Friday the 13th coming this weekend, Mortalis Brewing’s Buffalo taproom is getting spooky for the occasion. The brewery will offer spooky-themed flights on June 13, there will be classic horror movies playing all night in the taproom, popcorn and candy will be free and spooky attire is encouraged for all those who attend. Mortalis will also have several new beers available, including DemiHydra | Strawberry + Kiwi + Watermelon (Gluten Free Fruited Sour), Persephone Double IPA with Citra and Krush hops and OldManBearMa: POG, a fruited Double IPA brewed with Citra and Simcoe hops and conditioned on passion fruit, orange, and guava. All three will be available in 4-packs.

Wines in the Wild Returns to the Buffalo Zoo

Wines in the Wild makes its return to the Buffalo Zoo on June 18 as part of their 150th anniversary. The event will feature beverage and food sampling from the local wineries, breweries, and eateries, as well as live music, special appearances from the Zoo’s animal ambassadors and more. Participating vendors include Buffalo Distilling, Hartman’s Distilling, Beer Kind Brewing, Big Ditch Brewing, Frequentem Brewing , Mortalis Brewing, OSB Ciderworks, Resurgence Brewing, Blackbird Cider Works, Steel Leaf Brewing, Lilly Belle Meads, Wildflower Meadery, Queen City Meadery, Rusty Nickel Brewing and more. Funds raised from Wines in the Wild will go directly to supporting the Buffalo Zoo’s mission of creating connections and saving wildlife. Tickets are $45 and can be purchased here.

Flying Bison Brewing 25^th Anniversary Party

Cheers to 25 years! Flying Bison Brewing, Buffalo craft beer stalwarts and forefathers, are turning 25 years old and will celebrate a quarter century in business, on June 21 (12 – 7 pm). The brewery will be bringing back some throwback beers. Several vintages of Barrel-Aged HERC Barleywine will be available, as will two specialty casks. Tom Stahl will perform at 4 pm. “We can’t believe it’s already been 25 years that we have been able to provide Buffalo with our beer. We want to truly thank everyone for enjoying our beer for the past 25 years,” the brewery said. The anniversary party is free.

Brian Campbell is co-founder and Brand Manager of the Buffalo Beer League, and writes the weekly Buffalo Beer Buzz column. If you have beer news that should be included in the Beer Buzz, Brian can be reached at brian@buffalobeerleague.com, on X (@buffbeerleague), Instagram, Threads and Untappd (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Southern Tier 2X Jam, Wines in the Wild, Mortalis Friday the 13th, Lilly Belle Growler Deal, NYBP Beer Lodge & Flying Bison Anniversaries appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Holiday Beer Release Weekend at Resurgence Brewing

On Nov. 7-9, Resurgence Brewing is decking the halls with pints of cheer during their Holiday Beer Release Weekend. A number of Christmas and holiday-themed beers and ciders will be released, including Sour Claus, a fruited sour with raspberry and cranberry, Holiday Ale, Blackbird Cider Works Christmas Cider and Smells Like Buffalo Pilsner, which features honey, vanilla, and almond flavors. If you want to try any or all of these beverages before you purchase, Resurgence is hosting a special tasting on Saturday, Nov. 9. All 4 releases will be available on draft, as well as in cans and bottles to go.

Holiday eGift Card Sale at Beer Kind Brewing

Beer Kind Brewing is holding a gift card sale this month, just in time for the holiday season. Now through Nov. 30, you can purchase physical gift cards and e-gift cards and receive 20% off with promo code GCHOPPYHOLIDAYS. You can get a $25 eGift card for $20, $50 card for $40, $75 for $60, $100 for $80 or whatever custom value you’d like. You can order the gift cards in person at the taproom or online.

The brewery will also soon release their Secret Santa 4-Pack, which features four exclusive brews wrapped in holiday packaging. According to Beer Kind, each can holds a new surprise, and is “perfect for gift exchanges or your own holiday stash.” Stay tuned to their social media channels for more information on release details.

Southern Tier Brewing Buffalo New IPA for Charity

Southern Tier Brewing’s Buffalo taproom has released a new beer, Ice Bucket IPA, which was dry hopped with the Ales for ALS hop blend from Yakima Chief Hops, pilsner malt and flaked corn, and features notes of berries, citrus, and tropical fruits. $1 from every pint will go to support ALS research via Ales for ALS, a fundraising program where breweries create beers and donate proceeds from sales to ALS research. Ice Bucket IPA is on tap now.

And the charitable efforts at Southern Tier Brewing Buffalo do not end there. Every Thursday in November, the brewery is hosting Cheers for Charity, where $1 from every beer and cider sold all day will be donated to FeedMore WNY, whose mission it is to offer dignity, hope and a brighter future by providing nutritious food, friendship and skills training to local neighbors in need.

New York State Brewers Association’s 24 NYS Beers of Holiday Cheer

The New York State Brewers Association is putting together 24 beers from 24 New York breweries for the 24 NYS Beers of Holiday Cheer, a beer advent calendar. The special beer box features a variety of styles, ranging from stouts, IPA’s, lagers, sours and more from breweries such as Wayland Brewing, Frequentem Brewing, Mortalis Brewing, Smoldered Society and more. In addition to the beer, you will receive a tasting notes guide, NYS Craft Beer sticker bundle and a Think NY, Drink NY koozie. The beer box costs $149 and can be ordered online.

Hydraulic Hearth to Celebrate 10 Year Anniversary

Larkin’s Hydraulic Hearth is celebrating a decade of business on Nov. 9. And in honor of the ten year anniversary, all drinks will be $2 for all former staffers in attendance and $5 for all beers and $7 for menu cocktails for all customers. If you didn’t know, Hydraulic Hearth is known for their brick oven pizzas and creative cocktails, along with beer from Community Beer Works like Dreizehn German Pilsner, Ein Bier Bitte Hefeweizen, Sloth IPA, Alpaca Porter and Bindlestiff Barleywine. Hydraulic Hearth is located at 716 Swan Street and more information can be found at hydraulichearth.com.

Brian Campbell is co-founder and Brand Manager of the Buffalo Beer League, and writes the weekly Buffalo Beer Buzz column. If you have beer news that should be included in the Beer Buzz, Brian can be reached at brian@buffalobeerleague.com, on Twitter (@buffbeerleague), Instagram, Threads and Untappd (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Resurgence Holiday Beer Weekend, Beer Kind Sale, Southern Tier Cheers for Charity, NYS BA Beer Advent, Hydraulic Hearth 10th Anniversary appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

In recent years, craft beer has become more than just a refreshing beverage – it’s become a movement with the power to unite communities and support important causes. Craft beer created locally can be a valuable tool for change in our very own backyard and make our local communities a better place to live. It seems so simple, yet so profound – order a pint, support someone in need. Buy a beer, foster real, palpable good.

This approach turns every pour into a powerful vehicle for change for the better, benefiting local communities and global movements alike. This trend, sometimes called “philanthrobrewing,” is allowing craft beer lovers to support causes they care about while enjoying their favorite drink.

As I step down from my soap box, let me tell you more about Southern Tier Brewing’s downtown taproom in Canalside, who is saying ‘cheers for charity’ this November by launching a new IPA to support ALS research efforts and by donating a portion of proceeds each Thursday in November to a worthy local charity.

The new beer, Ice Bucket IPA, is dry hopped with the Ales for ALS hop blend from Yakima Chief Hops, pilsner malt and flaked corn, and features notes of berries, citrus, and tropical fruits. $1 from every pint will go to support ALS research via Ales for ALS, a fundraising program where breweries create beers and donate a portion of proceeds to ALS research. Ice Bucket IPA is on tap now.

And the charitable efforts do not end there. Every Thursday in November, the brewery is hosting Cheers for Charity, where $1 from every beer and cider sold all day will be donated to FeedMore WNY, whose mission it is to offer dignity, hope and a brighter future by providing nutritious food, friendship and skills training to local neighbors in need.

Through their food bank distribution center and partner hunger-relief agencies, as well as their home-delivered meal program and other targeted feeding programs, FeedMore WNY alleviates hunger and assists community members of all ages throughout Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie and Niagara counties. To learn more, visit https://www.feedmorewny.org.

“We look forward to seeing you in the taproom throughout November and with helping us do our part in giving back to our local community!” Southern Tier said.

Craft beer for a cause transforms every pint into a gesture of goodwill, giving back to communities, supporting environmental efforts, and fueling meaningful change. Every sip can contribute to a better tomorrow and a toast is always better when it’s to a better world. Cheers to that.

Brian Campbell is co-founder and Brand Manager of the Buffalo Beer League, and writes the weekly Buffalo Beer Buzz column. If you have beer news that should be included in the Beer Buzz, Brian can be reached at brian@buffalobeerleague.com, on Twitter (@buffbeerleague), Instagram (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

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Tickets on Sale for Third Annual Tap & Craft Festival

The third annual Tap & Craft Festival, coming to the Niagara Falls Convention Center on Oct. 5, will feature craft brews from more than 40 craft breweries, wineries and cideries from Upstate New York, live music from The Far Trio, artisan market, food and more. Tickets are $35 and include admission, commemorative tasting glass and unlimited samples. Designated Driver tickets are $10. VIP tickets include a special release from Mortalis Brewing, exclusive beverage selections curated by Brewed & Bottled, Magic Bear Beer Cellar, The Lock Tender, One Stop Brew Shop and Alchemy Wine & Beer and more. Purchase tickets at www.tapandcraft.com.

Pressure Drop Brewing to Close Elmwood Avenue Taproom

Pressure Drop has announced that their taproom located at 1672 Elmwood Avenue will close at the end of the month. Their last day open will be Sunday, Sept. 29. The announcement was made on their social media channels. While no further details were announced, the brewery said that their beer will still be available at select retailers, beer stores, bottle shops, bars and restaurants around Western New York. Their beer also sees distribution in Rochester, Syracuse and Eastern Pennsylvania. Pressure Drop opened the location in March of 2022. The brewery announced in July of 2023 that they were for sale.

WNY Beer Week Returns Sept. 19-28

The 2024 Western New York Beer Week, presented by the WNY Brewers Guild, will take place Sept. 19-28. Things will get underway on Sept. 19 with an Opening Reception at Resurgence Brewing, then from there, featured events include Buffalo Beer Goddesses 12th Anniversary Party at Mr. Goodbar (Sept. 19), Brewer’s Cornhole Tournament at The Ridge West Seneca (Sept. 22), Nickel City BrewZ Cornhole Tournament hosted by Buffalo Beer Geeks (Sept. 24), WNY Real Beer Expo at Flying Bison (Sept. 27), Brewer’s Bottle Share at Magic Bear Beer Cellar (Sept. 27) and WNY Wet Hop Festival at Rusty Nickel (Sept. 28). Find more at wnybeerweek.com.

Lockport Brewpub Shuffle Becomes Twisted Locks Brewing

Lockport Brewpub Shuffle, a project at 13 W. Main St. in Lockport first proposed in 2021, will now continue under the name Twisted Locks Brewing. The proposed project from brothers CJ and Matt Martin will see the 22,490-square-foot former Kendzie’s Lanes building converted into a ground floor entertainment space, which will feature four regulation-size shuffleboards, bocce courts and cornhole boards, a microbrewery featuring a seven-barrel craft brewing system expected to be installed by November and restaurant, along with four apartments on the upper floors. The Martins bought the building in 2022.

Oktoberfest Celebrations in Full Swing This Weekend

It’s Oktoberfest season and there are plenty of venues celebrating the season, which traditionally runs Sept. 17 through Oct. 3. Wayland Brewing’s second annual Oktoberfest (Sept. 20-22) will feature stein specials, live music from Invisible Touch, German food, ax throwing and more, Rationales will host DEADtoberfest with WNY Dead (Sept. 21), Mystic Hills Brewing will host Oktoberfest (Sept. 21) featuring spent grain pretzels, stein holding competition and German beer flight specials, Pumkingfest at Southern Tier Brewing Buffalo (Sept. 21) will features live music from Interstate Daydream and Tiny Music, exclusive merch and a Pumkingfest Taste Off with Chai Pumking, Maple Pumking and Pecan Pumking (vote for your favorite) and live music (1pm, 5:30pm, 9pm) and a special beer tapping (6pm) at Hofbrauhaus Buffalo. Resurgence’s Oktoberfest (Sept. 21) will feature live music from the Polka Boys Band, stein hoisting & pretzel eating contests, beer samplings, German food and beer specials, and more.

Brickyard Brewing to Release Pair of New Lagers

On Sept. 20, Brickyard Brewing will release a pair of new lagers, Dusk Amber Lager and Dawn Pale Lager. Dawn is an unfiltered Czech Pale Lager brewed with SAAZ Shine hops for notes of citrus and lightly toasted malt and Dusk is a Czech Amber Lager, which features a soft mouthfeel, light roast, toasted nuts and dark fruits. Both beers are available on draft and in 4-pack cans to go. Both cans feature special, limited edition mirrored labels.

Seneca Brewtopia Beer Festival at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino

The first ever Seneca Brewtopia Beer Festival at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino will take place on Nov. 23. Breweries scheduled to attend include Resurgence Brewing, BlackBird Cider Works, Founders Brewing, Great Lakes Brewing, 42 North Brewing, Labatt, Wicked Weed and Kona Brewing with more to be announced. Tickets are $40 (if purchased before Oct. 1) and $55 (if purchased Oct. 2 or after) and include commemorative sampling glass, $15 ticket exchange voucher and a soft pretzel. Tickets for the event can be purchased here.

Brian Campbell is co-founder and Brand Manager of the Buffalo Beer League, and writes the weekly Buffalo Beer Buzz column. If you have beer news that should be included in the Beer Buzz, Brian can be reached at brian@buffalobeerleague.com, on Twitter (@buffbeerleague), Instagram (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Tap & Craft Fest, Seneca Brewtopia Beer Fest, Oktoberfest, Pressure Drop Elmwood to Close, Twisted Locks Brewing, WNY Beer Week, Brickyard Lagers appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Sabres Puck Drop Party at Southern Tier Buffalo

As the Buffalo Sabres kick off their 2023-24 campaign on home ice on Thursday, October 12 against the New York Rangers, Southern Tier Buffalo is celebrating with a Puck Drop Party, which will serve as the debut of their new Top Shelf Corn Lager, brewed with New York ingredients and named in honor of late Sabres announcer Rick “RJ” Jeanneret. All Buffalo Brew’d beers will be $5 throughout the day and the party continues postgame with mini sticks games, a DJ set, and more.

Celebrate Oktoberfest This Weekend at a Local Brewery

Don’t put your lederhosen away just yet as Oktoberfest celebrations continue at breweries around Western New York this weekend. On October 14, Belt Line Brewery will be offering German foods and beers at their Oktoberfest, New York Beer Project’s Oktoberfest (Oct. 15) features German beer and food, a Stein Hoisting competition, German costume contest, Weiner Toss, authentic German music and more, Hofbrauhaus will host the U.S. Steinholding Association New York State Championship on Oct. 14, and Steel Leaf Brewing will release their Festbier and Oktoberfestbier at their Oktoberfest Celebration on Oct. 14. Prost!

Thin Man Brewery Minkey Day 2023 at Cole’s

For this year’s Minkey Day, October 14 at Cole’s, Thin Man teamed up with Atrium (Boodle Boy – 7% Parfait-inspired sour w/raspberry, lemon, granola, and yogurt powder), Grimm (Super Boodle – 5% Citra dry hopped Gose w/raspberry, passion fruit, and orange zest), RAR (Minkey’s Out of Order – 7% Blue Raspberry Sour), and Tripping Animals (Minkey Limonada – 7% Raspberry/Pink Lemonade Sour) to develop some brand new Minkey Boodle variants. This year, Thin Man has partnered with Real Men Wear Pink to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Tickets are $45 ($5 will go to the American Cancer Society) and include exclusive access to Cole’s back patio, 1x7oz. pour of each variant, Thin Man glass, free Minkey Boodle Mimosa Bar and live music from Olmsted Dub System. Purchase tickets here.

Big Ditch Teams With YMCA Buffalo Niagara on Turkey Trotter Beer

Big Ditch Brewing has once again partnered with the YMCA on Turkey Trotter, brewed to celebrate the annual Buffalo Turkey Trot race. Turkey Trotter is a blonde ale that features crackery malt and light, hoppy fruit notes. The beer is available right now on draft or to-go in 6-packs 12oz. cans at Big Ditch’s taproom and wherever great craft beer is sold. Turkey Trotter beer cans will also contain a QR code which can be scanned to register for the race. Registration for the YMCA Buffalo Turkey Trot is open and available at www.ymcaturkeytrot.org.

Ellicottville Brewing x Platters Chocolate Affagato Tasting Party

On October 18 (6pm), Ellicottville Brewing and Platters Chocolate Factory are celebrating the release of their latest collaboration, Affogato Dessert Ale, at Fattey Beer in North Tonawanda. Affogato is brewed with Platter’s espresso coffee beans, vanilla, caramel, lactose, and Belgium malt to resemble Platter’s Chocolate Factory’s Affagoto – a scoop of vanilla ice cream “drowned” in a shot of hot espresso. They will be sampling the new brew and giving away swag like koozies, keychains, and stickers. This is a free to attend event.

Raise Money, Awareness for Cerebral Palsy at Resurgence Brewing

On October 20, Resurgence is teaming up with Make Lemon Aide for Cerebral Palsy on Sips for CP, an event to raise awareness and funds for individuals living with Cerebral Palsy. The event will feature a specially brewed beer, Smiles for CP Pilsner, with $2 from each pint sold going to benefit Make Lemon Aide for Cerebral Palsy, who raise awareness for CP, foster inclusion and create a supportive community. The event will feature a 26 Shirts pop up, food from Meet & Eat Charcuterie and Imperial Pizza, desserts, basket raffles, bottle toss, and more. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased here.

2024 Trail Pass from WNY Beer Trail Is Now Available

The new WNY Beer Trail Pass for 2024 has launched and this year it features 70 Western New York locations, including 24 new spots – new breweries like Johnson’s Landing, Gowanda Brewing, Mystic Hills Brewing, Wayland Brewing, Buffalo Olde Brewery, Shalooby Loofer and The Ridge West Seneca, beer bars such as RationAles, The Beer Keep and Hamburg Taproom, as well as meaderies like Bee Spit Meadery. New this year is a change to the Buy One, Get One wording, 12 locations with multiple offers and six more discount offers. A digital version of the Trail Pass is coming soon. You can order yours online here. For a limited time and while supplies last, you can get up to 2 free 2023 passes with a purchase of an equal number of 2024 passes.

Brian Campbell is co-founder and Brand Manager of the Buffalo Beer League, and writes the weekly Buffalo Beer Buzz column. If you have beer news that should be included in the Beer Buzz, Brian can be reached at brian@buffalobeerleague.com, on Twitter (@buffbeerleague), Instagram (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Sabres Puck Drop, Minkey Day, Oktoberfest, New Beers at EBC & Big Ditch, Resurgence Fundraiser, 2024 Trail Pass appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

WNY Beer Week to Feature Special Beer Releases, Events

WNY Beer Week, which highlights the quality, diversity, and economic impact of local craft beer, returns September 23 – 30, and will feature a number of special beer releases, specials and events. Some new beers include Pressure Drop I’m A Local Grapefruit IPA, Big Ditch Beer Week Barleywine, Windy Brew Krupnik Barrel-Aged Blonde Stout, Rusty Nickel Apple Fritter Amber and Spotted Octopus Jim Murphy’s Wet Hopped Irish Red. Special events include a Brewer’s Cornhole Tournament at The Ridge West Seneca (Sept. 23), Ask The Brewer night at Brewed and Bottled (Sept. 25), a Q&A discussion featuring brewers and owners from Big Ditch, Hofbräuhaus, Pressure Drop, and brewery-in-planning Hammer & Crown, and more. Find more new beers, events, and specials at wnybeerweek.com.

Steel Leaf Brewing Extends Special Moe’s Pop-Up Tavern

Moe’s Pop Up has extended their stay at Steel Leaf Brewing due to popular demand. The iconic tavern from The Simpsons will now be in town September 23. The extended dates are Wednesday through Friday 5pm until 9pm, Saturday 12pm until 3pm, and a special “Trivia and Toasting Moe” Night on Sept. 23, 4pm until 9pm, which includes Simpsons trivia with prizes and the “Electric Marge” cocktail. This is a ticketed event and limited and timed tickets can be purchased online. Ticket packages start at $39 and include food, all photo ops, and a non-alcoholic drink. Costumes are encouraged. For more information, visit https://moespopup.com.

Community Beer Works Pig Roast, Lorem Ipsum Beer Release

As part of WNY Beer Week, Community Beer Works will release a new beer, Lorem Ipsum, an unfiltered, all-malt lager, on September 24 (1pm). The beer release event will feature a full pig roast, and the brewery will also be showing the Buffalo Bills – Washington Commanders game at 1pm. Lorem Ipsum will be available on draft and in limited quantity 4-pack 16oz. cans at the brewery.

Brickyard Brewing Presents Lewiston Harvest & Hops Festival

The Lewiston Harvest & Hops Festival, which takes place on September 23-24, features an artisan farmers market and food vendors set up outside on Fifth Street. The Tim Britt Band will perform at Brickyard Brewing (1-4pm) on Saturday, Farmer Tom Walsh will perform both days and Shenandoah Acres will have a petting zoo both days as well. Brickyard Brewing teamed up with Old First Ward Brewing, Wandering Gypsy Brewing and Brewed & Bottled on Fall Morning Blonde Ale, a new beer which will be available at the festival, and in different cask variations at each of the participating collaborators.

First Ever Okto-Purr-Fest at One-Eyed Cat Brewing

One-Eyed Cat Brewing are putting their own spin on Oktoberfest with the first annual Okto-Purr-Fest, on Sept. 23 (2pm), which will feature the release of two Oktoberfest beers, a Marzen and a Festbier, named Hans and Franz. The former is a marzen with sweet malt notes and a smooth, crisp finish, while the latter is a clean and balanced Festbier with notes of doughy bread and sweet malt. A Purr-fect Fit Animal Rescue will be on hand with adoptable cats, basket raffles and a 50/50 raffle, Pork Bellies BBQ will have their full BBQ menu available, as well as some German specialties, and live music will be provided by Molly Conrad. The event is free and open to the public.

Pumkingfest Comes to Southern Tier Brewing Buffalo

On Sept. 23, Southern Tier Brewing Buffalo will celebrate all things Pumking at Pumkingfest (12pm). The event will feature live music from Soul Committee (1-4pm) and Iron Eyes (6-9pm), limited edition Pumkingfest merch with embroidered patches (free Pumking character patches for the first 100 guests), games such as ministicks, football throw games, and more, and a special Pumking Flight, which features 5oz. pours of Pumking, Warlock, Caramel Pumking, Harvest Autumn IPA and a shot of Pumking Whiskey for $20. The first 100 guests to purchase a Caramel Pumking will also receive a limited-edition tap sticker. The event is free and open to the public.

Fall Fiasco Event, Beer Release at BriarBrothers Brewing

BriarBrothers Brewing are welcoming autumn with the Fall Fiasco, featuring live music by the Jugless Jug Band and a seasonal artisan market, on Sept. 23 (1pm). The event will also serve as a backdrop for the release of AuktoBrofest, a collaboration with Autark Brewhouse. This marzen is bready and biscuity with a touch of sweet malt balanced by herbal hops and a crisp finish. They will also debut a special edition 18oz. beer stein that features the BriarBrothers and Autark Octoberfest logos. It will be available for purchase at both locations for $18, which includes a fill of AuktoBrofest and can be brought to either location throughout the season for a refill in the larger mug. Doors open at noon.

11th Anniversary Mini-Fest (Blue Monk) Celebration at Cole’s

Remember the Blue Monk? If you’re a craft drinker of a certain age, of course you do. On Sept. 23, as part of the Buffalo Beer Geeks 11^th Anniversary Celebration Week, head down to Coles and share stories of your favorite times at the Monk. Beer Geeks co-founder Paul Marko, along with Blue Monk/Coles owner Mike Shatzel, will curate a selection of hard-to-find beers, including DeRanke XX Bitter, De la Senne Jambe du Bois, Dieu du Ceil Peche Mortel, Ritterguts Gose, Garden Path Fermentation The Strong Fruit Ale, meads from Illumination Meadery and beers from 3 Sons, as well as other cellared bottles and surprises. For tickets, message Marko on Facebook or Venmo $30 (per person) to @Paul-Marko-1.

Windy Brew, Eli Fish to Release Pair of Collaborations

On Sept. 22 (4pm), Eli Fish Brewing and Windy Brew are teaming up to drop a pair of new barrel aged beers. The first release is Cold Hearted Blonde, a coffee stout aged in a Buffalo Distilling Krupnik barrel (notes of balanced honey and coffee with a smooth finish), and the second collab beer is Friends In Oak, a cream ale aged in a neutral oak cask with bacteria for over two years. The beer, brewed and released in honor of Windy Brew opening their second location in Batavia, was aged on aged on kiwi and orange. Both beers will be available at Eli Fish, as well as Windy Brew’s locations in Batavia and Strykersville.

Brian Campbell is co-founder and Brand Manager of the Buffalo Beer League, and writes the weekly Buffalo Beer Buzz column. If you have beer news that should be included in the Beer Buzz, Brian can be reached at brian@buffalobeerleague.com, on Twitter (@buffbeerleague), Instagram (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: WNY Beer Week, Moe’s Pop Up, Okto-Purr-Fest, Pumkingfest, Harvest & Hops Fest, New Beers at Windy Brew, Eli Fish & CBW, Mini-Blue Monk Fest, Fall Fiasco appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Pressure Drop Brewing Is Up For Sale

Pressure Drop Brewing is now on the market. The sale includes the operation, equipment and furnishings at its two locations in Buffalo, including the brewery on Vandalia St. and the pub on Elmwood Ave. Brewing equipment included in the sale is one (1) grain milling unit, five (5) 40 barrel fermenters, one (1) 40 barrel brite tank, one (1) 20 barrel mash tun, one (1) 20 barrel boil kettle, one (1) 6,000 liter hot liquid tank, and one (1) double station keg washer. Inquiries can be submitted via pressuredropbrewers.com/news.

Celebrate National IPA Day at Eli Fish Brewing and Southern Tier Brewing

August 3 marks National IPA Day, a day in which we honor a beer style that has taken the world by storm, igniting taste buds and captivating palates with its bold flavors and aromatic hops, and a number of local breweries are celebrating, including Eli Fish in Batavia and Southern Tier in Buffalo. The latter will offer $10 IPA flights and $5 IPA crowlers all day long beginning at 11am on Aug. 3, and the former will release a new hazy IPA – The Greatest Of All Warriors, a double dry hopped New England IPA with Rakau and Motueka hops, on Aug. 2. It will be available on draft and in cans to go.

Buffalo Brewing Celebrates 7^th Anniversary This Weekend

This Saturday, July 29 marks the seventh anniversary of Buffalo Brewing Company and the brewery is celebrating with beer, deep dish pizza from Buffalo Deep Dish, live music from Community Service (2pm) and exclusive merch raffles. “Wow, it’s hard to imagine I’ve been doing this for 7 years already,” BBC owner John Domres says. “I can still remember the nervous feeling I had that week leading up to our 7/29 Kickstarter party nervous about almost everything. We’ve packed a lot in to these 7 years. Now it’s time to celebrate with music and pizza!”

Froth Brewing Teams With Buffalo Rapper On New Beer

Froth Brewing has teamed up with Buffalo’s own, Def Jam Recording artist Benny the Butcher, on Coconut Key Lime Pie, a new heavily fruited sour ale. This 6.5% brew is brewed with coconut, key lime, graham cracker crust and marshmallow topping. The beer is available right now on draft at the brewery, in 4-pack cans to-go, and for shipping online in New York State. “It’s been an honor to work with the legend and homie Benny the Butcher on this collaboration,” Froth says. “Keep doing your thing for Buffalo and we’ll do the same!”

Celebrate Christmas in July at Sad Boys Brewing

While July may soon be over, there is still time to celebrate Christmas in July and what better place to do so than at Sad Boy Brewing. Bring the entire family on July 29 as none other than Santa Claus will be at the brewery (1-4pm). All night (1-11pm) there will be Christmas music playing, an Ugly Sweater Competition takes place at 9pm and all day long, $1 from every pint sold in the taproom will be donate to Roswell Park.

Hofbrauhaus Hofbrau Keller Tapping with Buffalo Beer League

Hofbrauhaus will debut their newest summer seasonal, Hofbrau Keller, on August 3 (6pm) with help from the Buffalo Beer League, who will serve as celebrity keg tappers for the event. Members of the BBL will lead the ceremonial parade and then will help to tap the keg of Hofbrauhaus’ newest lager. Keller is 5.1%, is brewed with Herkules, Perle, Magnum, and Select hops, and features a hoppy aroma, touch of fruitiness, and a refreshing, subtle hoppy finish. Die Haus Band will take the stage at 6pm. All guests in attendance, 21+, will receive a complimentary Keller after the tapping. For reservations, please visit www.hofbrauhausbuffalo.com or call (716) 939-2337.

August is Hopfest at Flying Bison Brewing

While National IPA Day is August 3, Flying Bison Brewing is celebrating the believed beer style all month long as the entire month of August is Hopfest, which will feature IPAs on draft and in cans. The hoppy selection is led by newer offerings, Hazy Chain Pineapple Double IPA (big, hazy and smooth with a slight nose of pineapple) and Down By the River IPA (Belgian style IPA featuring Cascade, Chinook, Centennial and Idaho 7 hops fermented with Belgian Ardennes yeast), and also features hoppy brews such as HopCat IPA, Jucie Caboose and DubMaster DDH IPA, on draft. The brewery will also have their Buffalo Kush DIPA in cans (big hop rush featuring Simcoe, Mosaic and Columbus hops).

Brian Campbell is co-founder and Brand Manager of the Buffalo Beer League, and writes the weekly Buffalo Beer Buzz column. If you have beer news that should be included in the Beer Buzz, Brian can be reached at brian@buffalobeerleague.com, on Twitter (@buffbeerleague), Instagram (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Pressure Drop For Sale, Buffalo Brewing Anniversary, Sad Boys Xmas in July, National IPA Day, New Releases at Hofbrauhaus & Froth, Flying Bison HopFest appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.