Spotted Octopus Moving to 500 Seneca Street

Spotted Octopus Brewing has announced plans to relocate from 41 Edward Street to 500 Seneca Street, the former Dobutsu and Compass Run. The new location will have more space, a full restaurant, a bigger outdoor patio, and parking. “We are thrilled to be relocating to a larger venue that will allow us to enhance our offerings and create a welcoming environment for everyone,” said Domenic Nicotera, co-owner of Spotted Octopus. “Our customers can look forward to enjoying their favorite brews along with an upgraded dining experience.” The new taproom is expected to open in early August 2026. Before they make the move, the brewery is saying goodbye to their current home and needs help drinking the bar dry on July 3-5.

William Mattar Offering Free Uber Vouchers for Fourth of July

William Mattar Accident Lawyers is once again helping Western New Yorkers get home safe with their Safe Ride Home 4 the 4th of July program. The initiative provides eligible participants with a $20 rideshare discount voucher to help them get home safely after their celebrations. Vouchers may be used between 12 pm on July 4 and 2 am on July 5. You can register at WilliamMattar.com now through 12 pm on July 1, or until all vouchers have been claimed. For complete program details and registration information, visit WilliamMattar.com.

Big Ditch’s Deep Cut Double IPA Returns

Big Ditch Brewing’s award-winning Double IPA, Deep Cut, will make a return this Friday, June 26. The 8.2% DIPA features dank hops, citrus, orange and tropical fruit. “The final obstacle in constructing the Erie Canal was leveling a 7 mile section of the canal 40 feet deep – by hand – between the Flight of Five in Lockport and Lake Erie. Our Deep Cut Double IPA is equally ambitious. It’s layered with citrus, tropical punch, and wild berry flavor, with moderate bitterness and a dry finish. Hopheads will truly appreciate this 8.2% ABV beer,” Big Ditch says. Deep Cut will be available in cans ($14.90 per 4-packs 16oz. cans) and on draft at both Big Ditch locations (Buffalo, Lockport).

Resurgence Brewing Releases Mojito Ale

Resurgence Brewing is putting a new spin on a classic summer cocktail, the Mojito, blending cucumber and mint for a light-bodied and easy-drinking beer, Mojito Ale. “Perfect for relaxing sunny days and vibrant patio nights alike, this cocktail-inspired ale is a unique new summer drink you won’t want to miss!” the brewery says of the new beer. Mojito Ale is on tap and available in cans at Resurgence’s Chicago Street taproom now.

Erie County Fair Homebrew, Cider Winners Announced

The Home Brew and Hard Cider Best of Show winners of the Erie County Fair Home Brew and Cider competitions have been selected. For the second straight year, the Best in Show Cider comes from Chuck Privitera of Eden. Privitera also won for Most Creative Cider at this year’s competition. It will be produced by Blackbird Cider Works. The Best in Show Beer comes from West Seneca’s James Krell for his Red IPA. It will be brewed and released by Hamburg Brewing. Both the winning beer and cider will be available on draft throughout the fair, as well as in cans at Hamburg Brewing and BlackBird Cider Works. Stay tuned for more details.

Southern Tier Rolls Out New Beers For NHL Draft

With the 2026 NHL Draft coming to town this weekend, just steps from Southern Tier Brewing Buffalo, the brewery is rolling out a pair of new hockey-themed beers – Pineapple Powerplay, a tart 4.5% tropical fruit sour with notes of pineapple and citrus, and River Hockey Light Lager, a 4.2% American light lager that’s crisp, clean, smooth and refreshing. Both beers can be found at the brewery on tap. The NHL Draft takes place June 26-27 at KeyBank Center.

Wayland Brewing Lancaster to Hold Special Preview

If you have been patiently waiting for Wayland Brewing to open its new Lancaster location inside the former Lilly Belle Meads, this weekend is your chance. The brewery is hosting a special sneak peek at the outside of the space on June 26 (4-10 pm) and June 27 (1-11 pm) with can pours available from Wayland and food from Buffalo Burger Bros. The event is free and open to the public. Lilly Belle Mead vacated the space last year after partnering with Rusty Nickel Brewing. The 2,400 sq. ft. space will operate as a traditional taproom with 16 taps and a food menu similar to Buffalo Bros’ location in the Village of Hamburg with smashburgers, chicken sandwiches and more.

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: Spotted Octopus New Home, Wayland Lancaster, New Beers at Big Ditch, Resurgence & Southern Tier, Free Uber Vouchers, Erie County Fair Homebrew Competition appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Spotted Octopus to Relocate and Expand in Buffalo

Spotted Octopus Brewing has announced plans to move to a new, larger location in Buffalo. According to the brewery, the new venue will accommodate up to 120 guests and will feature a full-service restaurant operated by Flow Food. It will also include an outdoor patio and dedicated parking. “We are thrilled to be relocating to a larger venue that will allow us to enhance our offerings and create a welcoming environment for everyone,” said Domenic Nicotera, co-owner of Spotted Octopus. “Our customers can look forward to enjoying their favorite brews along with an upgraded dining experience.” The new taproom is expected to open early August 2026.

Hamburg Brewing Introduces The Cluck Bucket

It’s no secret that beer and wings are a perfect pairing, and Hamburg Brewing is celebrating that holiest of unions with the Cluck Bucket, a new taproom special that pairs twenty chicken wings with a bucket of five Lil Guy IPAs, a light bodied 3.9% session IPA ($45 plus tax). Hamburg offers a number of wings flavors, including Hot, Medium, Mild, Carolina BBQ, Chipotle Lime Dry-Rub, Buffalo Lemon Pepper Dry-Rub, General Tso, Mango Habanero, Garlic Parm, and Spicy Honey. The Cluck Bucket Combo is only for on-site consumption at Hamburg Brewing.

Southern Tier Teams With National Comedy Center To Fight ALS

Southern Tier Brewing is joining the fight against ALS and is teaming up with the National Comedy Center on Bit by Bit Blonde Ale, a collaboration to support Ales for ALS. This 5.1% blonde ale is available at all Southern Tier taprooms and will be rolled out with a series of special events across all taprooms this month. The beer’s name, the brewery says, “draws inspiration from the comedy ‘bits’ that have brought people together for generations while also reflecting the incremental progress being made every day in the fight against ALS.” On June 16, Southern Tier Buffalo will host a special screening of John Candy’s “Canadian Bacon” in the taproom. A portion of the proceeds from every pint of Bit by Bit Blonde Ale will support Ales for ALS and help fund critical ALS research. Southern Tier will donate $1 from every pint sold and $1 from every four-pack purchased to-go to ALS research efforts. The beer is now available at Southern Tier taprooms, the National Comedy Center, and select local retailers.

Burgers and Beers on the Patio at The Ridge Giveaway

Step Out Buffalo and The Ridge West Seneca are teaming up to give away a $100 Burgers and Patios on the Patio experience. This prize includes a $100 gift card to The Ridge West Seneca. All you have to do is click here and enter your name and email address. The contest runs through Friday, June 12. You can also head to @stepoutbuffalo on Instagram for more chances to enter. When you win, you can order any number of burgers from The Ridge’s menu, including the Bacon Jam Smash, Rustler Burger, Classic, Sunrise Smash, Turkey Burger and more. You can also grab beers from the main bar or at the self-pour tap wall.

Three New York Beer Project Releases This Week

In honor of the World Cup kicking off this week, New York Beer Project is releasing a pair of new beers on Thursday, Emperor Japanese Rice Lager and Brazilian Hurricane Sour, as well as Baby Crush Hazy IPA, a session version of the brewery’s award-winning Hazy Crush IPA, which returns after a limited initial run. Emperor is crisp, smooth, and light-bodied at 4.7%, with a floral hop note and a dry finish. The Brazilian Hurricane Sour is 6% and brewed to mimic the popular Hurricane cocktail and features passion fruit, Valencia orange and tart cherry. Both Emperor and Baby Crush will be available at all NYBP New York locations (Lockport, Victor, Orchard Park), while Brazilian Hurricane Sour will be released at all taprooms, including Orlando.

42 North Brewing Drops New Hazy IPA

42 North Brewing has released a new hazy IPA, Trailhaze, brewed with Citra, Mosaic and Idaho 7 hops, “perfect for outdoor adventures and getting lost in nature.” The 6% IPA features notes tropical fruit, soft citrus and a well-balanced finish. The beer recently made its debut at Sprague Brook Park for National Trails Day and will be featured this Saturday, June 13, at the Heart of Music Festival at 42 North’s East Aurora taproom, an all-day event that will feature live performances from the West Falls Kids Group (1 pm), Doug Yeomans & Friends (2 pm), Leroy Townes (4 pm) and Uncle Bens Remedy (6:30 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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Spotted Octopus Brewing to Open in Rochester on March 22

Spotted Octopus Brewing will officially open their doors at 56 South Union Street in downtown Rochester, inside the former Roc Brewing, on March 22. The new space offers a full kitchen, New York state wine, spirits and cocktails, seating for 100 patrons inside and 30 more outside and a private events space. The opening lineup of beers includes Art Deco White IPA, Paxton’s Pale, Just a Beer, Call the Kraken, Rumplestoutskin” Oatmeal Stout, Chase the Snakes Red Ale, a collaboration with Brazen Brewing, and Hef the Dark Dragon, a collab with Swiftwater Brewing. They also offer a hard seltzer in multiple flavors. Hours are Monday and Thursday, 11am – 10pm, Fridays and Saturdays, 11am – 11pm and Sunday, 11am – 6pm.

Genesee Ruby Red Kolsch Returns for the Season

In what can only be viewed as the official change of seasons in Western New York, Genesee Brewing’s annual summer staple Rudy Red Kolsch is back for 2025. You’ll still be able to find the grapefruit kolsch in traditional 12oz. can 12-packs, as well as 24oz. cans. Ruby Red Kolsch is a bright golden ale with tart grapefruit flavors, bready malt body and mild hop bitterness. Genesee Brew House Brewmaster Dean Jones created this summer brew for its German heritage and fun taste profile. Look for Ruby Red Kolsch wherever great craft beer is sold.

42 North Celebrates Maple Season With Tree Tap Maple Fest

On March 22 (12-4pm), 42 North Brewing is teaming up with the Erie County Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department for Tree Tap Maple Fest, which includes guided tours, demonstrations of the maple production process and much more. The festival will featuring craft beer from 42 North (including a special NYS Maple Porter produced with maple syrup from the Erie County forest), Ranger-guided tours, special maple dishes from Fat Bob’s Smokehouse & Food Truck, live music from Kody & Herren, maple-flavored goods from Blue Eyed Baker & more. The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place at the Erie County Forestry Bureau’s “Sugar Shack” in East Concord.

Big Ditch Brewing Lockport Taproom & Brewery Opens

Big Ditch Brewing’s Lockport Tap Room and Brewery, located at the Historic Post Office (1 East Avenue), is officially opened for business. The taproom offers seating for 250 guests and multiple bars across two levels, main dining area, outdoor covered patio, private event space, small brewery, full kitchen, beer to go, merch area and more. They have a number of new beers, including The Escarpment NY Pilsner, Lockport Extra Special ESB, Hoodledasher Hazy IPA, Carrot Cake Winter Ale, White Water and Rocket Mule Imperial IPA. Hours of operation are Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 4-10pm, Friday, 11am-11pm, Saturday, 12-11pm and Sunday, 12-8pm.

Southern Tier Brewing Releases Trio of New Beers

Southern Tier has once again partnered with Perry’s Ice Cream to create their newest flavor – Cherry Pie Imperial Ale. The 8.6% imperial ale offers notes of tart cherries, sweet vanilla, and biscuit with a smooth finish. Cherry Imperial Ale is available on tap now at all Southern Tier taprooms and will be available wherever great craft beer is sold soon.

The brewery has also added Caramel Cookie Bar to their Blackwater Imperial Stout series. This 10% heavy hitter, inspired by the famous candy bar, features notes of sweet cookie, rich milk chocolate and caramel. Caramel Cookie Bar is available at all Southern Tier taprooms, as well as wherever great craft beer is sold.

Finally, just in time for warmer weather to arrive, Southern Tier is releasing Early Bird, a sweet and tart Blueberry Lemonade Ale that clocks in 4.5% with blackberry and tart lemonade, light notes of sweet malt and Willamette and Centennial hops. Look for Early Bird at all Southern Tier taprooms, as well as wherever great craft beer is sold.

Habitat for Humanity Buffalo’s Hammer & Ales at Barrel Factory

Habitat for Humanity Buffalo’s annual Hammer & Ales fundraiser returns to the Barrel Factory on March 20 (5:30pm) and will feature food & drink tastings of local craft beers, ciders, and non-alcoholic beverages, silent auctions, games, and more. The event is flannel-themed, so wear your best flannel out for the night. The event is part of Habitat’s The House Beer Built campaign, a yearly fundraiser that sees the organization partner with regional breweries, distilleries, and restaurants to raise money to build or renovate a new home. Tickets for the event ($45) include admission and tastings. Tickets can be purchased here.

Magic Bear Teams With OSB Ciderworks on New Collab

Magic Bear Beer Cellar’s latest collaboration brew is with OSB Ciderworks – GrAppling With a Bear, a grape apple crisp cider with cinnamon, will be released on March 20 (5-7pm). In addition to the collaboration, Elise from OSB, and possibly the cideries’ mascot, Sir Glennister, will be on hand for the release sampling a selection of OSB’s other brews. There will also be food available from Brisket Love BBQ, including their pork belly cinnamon rolls. There will be trivia following the release at 7pm.

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: Spotted Octopus Rochester & Big Ditch Lockport Open, Genny Ruby Red Kolsch Returns, Tree Tap Maple Fest, Hammer & Ales, Magic Bear x OSB, New STBC Beers appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Spotted Octopus Brewing Company will open at 56 South Union Street in downtown Rochester. Ken Shaw, Domenic Nicotera, and Barbara Priore will offer rotating flavors and styles along with flagship choices. The brewery has twelve taps available.

The original Spotted Octopus opened in Buffalo 3 years ago and quickly built a reputation for great beer and friendly service. Head Brewer Evan Flury joined the company a few months after its opening and contributed to the development of several flagship beers, including “Call the Kraken,” a hazy IPA, “Just a Beer” Rice Lager, and “Paxton’s Pale,” a hazy Pale Ale named after Ken and Dom’s pitbull.

Not long after opening they realized they had started too small and the need to expand has been a challenge. A 2024 article on Rochester beer writer Will Cleveland’s Substack, “Cleveland Prost,” highlighted a fully equipped brewhouse at the former Roc Brewing Company. A site visit was all it took for them to decide the facility would be a perfect home for the expansion of Spotted Octopus Brewing Company.

Spotted Octopus’ Buffalo taproom does not have a kitchen, and they were unfamiliar with managing such an operation. But good fortune smiled when Brendon Zugibe offered to step in and run things.

The brewery hired “FLOW” Food Rochester for unique Mediterranean and pub-style dishes.

The brewery operates under a NYS Farm License and has had a great relationship with Zugibe Vineyards, who provide NYS farm wine to the Buffalo, and now Rochester, taprooms. Additionally, the brewery will offer spirits and fermentations from other NYS farm businesses like OSB Ciderworks, Lilly Belle Meads, Buffalo Distilling Company, Ellicottville Distillery and Black Sheep Distillery.

The opening lineup of beers includes “Art Deco” White IPA, “Paxton’s Pale,” “Just a Beer,” “Call the Kraken,” “Rumplestoutskin” Oatmeal Stout, “Chase the Snakes” Red Ale, a collaboration with Brazen Brewing, and “Hef the Dark Dragon,” a collaboration with Swiftwater Brewing. They also offer a hard seltzer in multiple flavors.

Hours are Monday and Thursday, 11am – 10pm, Fridays and Saturdays, 11am – 11pm and Sunday, 11am – 6pm.

Spotted Octopus can accommodate 100 patrons inside and another 30 on the patio. A private space is available for small parties. Parking is available behind the building.

The post Spotted Octopus Brewing to Open in Rochester on March 22 appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Buffalo On Tap Returns This Weekend

Buffalo on Tap will return to the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center on Feb. 8 (12-4pm, 5:30-8:30pm). Participating breweries include Big Ditch, 42 North, Cigar City, Industrial Arts, Lawson’s, Jack’s Abby, Prison City, Sloop, Community Beer Works, Sweetwater and more. The event will also feature live music, craft vendors, food and more. VIP tickets ($66.30, including taxes and fees) include 4 hours of sampling, access to VIP area with exclusive beer, souvenir glass and more, and General Admission tickets ($46.80, including taxes and fees) include 3 hours of sampling and souvenir glass. Tickets can be purchased here.

Clarksburg Cider Releases New Spring Varietal

Clarksburg is willing on the arrival of spring with the release of their new seasonal cider, Cherry Lavender. This 5.5% cider is closer to dry and is brewed with Morello cherries and lavender. “Cherry with a kiss of lavender,” Clarkburg says. “As spring approaches, we all have our favorite signs that better weather is around the corner. For some, it’s the buds on the trees. But for us, it’s our Cherry Lavender Hard Cider. Celebrate this year’s thaw with a rose-colored potion of Morello cherries and lavender that bloom in our classic hard cider for a delicate flavor and floral nose.” Cherry Lavender will be available until May wherever great craft cider is sold in 4-pack 12oz. cans, or online at https://buff.ly/4fMS3bw.

Spotted Octopus Brewing Releases Pair of New Beers

Spotted Octopus Brewing has released a pair of new beers – Fruit Basket and Kuitbier. The former is a 5.8% fruited sour with lychee and pineapple, while the latter is a 5.2% historical Dutch beer. It’s a three-grain beer brewed with malted oat, barley, and wheat that was most commonly consumed in the Netherlands. Kuitbier features a straw to amber-color with a natural cloudiness reminiscent of Weizen, but with its own fruity aroma and flavor. The brewery describes it as something of a cream ale mixed with a saison. You can find both beers on tap right now at Spotted Octopus in Allentown.

Smoldered Society Drops New Illusion of Safety DIPA

Smoldered Society has released a new version of their double dry hopped hazy Double IPA, Illusion of Safety. This is the third release in the series and features a double dry hop of Bru-One, Mosaic Cryo, Alora and Cashmere hops, along with hoppy aromas, medium body and notes of cantaloupe, melon and tropical fruit. It clocks in at 8.5%. You can find the new version of Illusion of Safety now at The Beer Keep, Moor Pat, Allen Burger Venture, Bottle Rocket, Cole’s, Colter Bay, Mr. Goodbar, and the Lexington Co-Op (Elmwood, Hertel).

Stein Fest 2025 at Hofbrauhaus Buffalo

Stein Fest returns to Hofbrauhaus Buffalo, Feb. 7-8. This two-day celebration of German heritage features exclusive Stein Club offers ($149 fee for new Stein Club memberships), live German music from Die Haus Band and Bergholz German Band, merchandise sales (10% off for all guests, 20% off for Stein Club members and investors), Stein Club members and Investors Perks ($10 stein refills) and German food specials. Stein Fest runs 5:30-8:30pm on Friday and 1-8:30pm on Saturday. The event is free and open to the public.

Other Half Buffalo Grand Opening, 11^th Anniversary

Other Half Buffalo is celebrating the opening of their new taproom on Feb. 8 (1pm) with a full selection of their 11^th anniversary beers, food and drink specials and live entertainment. The event is free and open to the public. The new taproom, located directed across from their former taproom at Seneca One, offers more seating, loads of televisions, including a massive projection screen, pinball, foosball, darts, 18 taps, outdoor beer garden, beer cooler featuring cans and bottles to go and a full food menu featuring vegan and vegetarian options.

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Southern Tier Brewing Releases New Double IPA

Southern Tier Brewing is expanding their 2X series with the addition of 2XHop’d, a new 8.2% Double IPA that features notes of passionfruit, guava and stone fruit and is brewed with a custom blend of hops. The beer is available in 12oz. 6-pack cans or as part of Southern Tier’s new Double IPA mixed pack, 2XPACK’D, which also includes cans of 2XJuice Jolt, 2XCitrus and their flagship, 2XIPA. You can find 2XHop’d at Southern Tier’s taprooms in Lakewood and Buffalo, and wherever great craft beer is sold.

Pour Taproom Opens New Ellicottville Location

Pour Taproom Ellicottville is now open in the former Slopeside Restaurant at the Telemark Hotel. The new space features a full bar with 30 self-pour taps and food menu. Each beverage option features its own price per ounce. You receive a wrist band with a QR code that’s linked to your credit card, and then you pour as much, or as little, as you want. They will be open this week Wednesday and Thursday (4-9:30pm), Friday and Saturday (12am-12am) and Sunday (12-9:30pm). For more information, click here.

Thin Man, Lord Hobo Are Back With New Collab

As the Buffalo Bills prepare to take on division rivals, the New England Patriots, for the first time this season, Thin Man Brewery and New England’s Lord Hobo Brewing have once again linked up on a new beer, Welcome to Hell: New England, a 6.66% hazy IPA dry hopped with Galaxy, Citra, Motueka, and Strata hops, as well as Phantasm powder. Welcome to Hell: New England will be available wherever great craft beer is sold by the end of this week. The Bills-Patriots kick off at 4:25 p.m. this Sunday.

Spotted Octopus Brewing Expanding to Rochester

Allentown’s Spotted Octopus Brewing Company have announced plans to expand to Rochester at the former site of Roc Brewing, located at 56 S. Union St., which closed in Oct. 2023. The plan, at least initially, is to move all production to Rochester, while operating both two taprooms. The move will increase Spotted Octopus’ brewing capacity (the new space features a 7bbl system) and will give them a full kitchen to work with. They hope to open in the new space this coming spring. Spotted Octopus opened in early 2022.

Smoldered Society First Anniversary at Mr. Goodbar

Smoldered Society, a brewing imprint of Community Beer Works and Thin Man Brewery, will celebrate their first anniversary on Dec. 20 at Mr. Goodbar (9pm). There will be a limited amount of stubby glass bottles of Strike Anywhere Czech Pilsner and a new 9% triple IPA, Balrog, which was brewed with honey and double dry hopped with Nelson Sauvin, Citra Cryo, Nelson and Citra hop oil. There will be an ugly sweater party (9:30pm) on the first floor with live music from the Spin Wires and a X-mas party on the second floor (9pm) with live music from Confound in Sound.

42 North Brewing Launches New Tom & Jerry Stout

It’s the holiday season in Buffalo and that means it’s Tom & Jerry season. 42 North Brewing has taken their love for the popular cocktail and has put its own spin on it with a special release, Tom & Jerry Barrel Aged Stout. This 10% stout was aged in American Oak barrels and dosed with nutmeg, cinnamon, allspice, vanilla, and lactose sugar. 42 North collaborated with The Delaware Pub & Grill on recipe development. Tom & Jerry is available at both 42 North taprooms, as well as The Delaware Pub & Grill in Kenmore.

Ellicottville Brewing, Canisius University Introduce New IPA

Canisius University and Ellicottville Brewing are teaming up on a new IPA, Canisius Fan Zone IPA. Canisius Fan Zone IPA will be available beginning the third weekend in December in 16-oz. 4-pack cans. The beer will be available at Canisius Fan Zone Den & Pub on campus (previously known as the ‘Griffins Den’), as well as Tops, Wegmans, Dash’s, Consumer’s Beverages  locations and select area bars. Canisius Fan Zone IPA will also be available for purchase online to New York residents at ellicottvillebrewing.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: New Beers at Southern Tier, 42 North, Ellicottville Brewing & Thin Man, Pour Taproom Ellicottville, Smoldered Society Anniversary, Spotted Octopus in Rochester appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

New York Beer Project Wins Gold at Great American Beer Festival

Hazy Crush, New York Beer Project’s flagship hazy IPA at the Orchard Park Beer Lodge, took home a gold medal at this year’s Great American Beer Festival, the largest beer festival in the country. Hazy Crush won gold in the experimental IPA category, making New York Beer Project one of the three gold medal award winners in New York State. Hazy Crush IPA is available at NYBP Lockport, Victor and Orchard Park. Hazy Crush also won a gold medal at the NYS Craft Brewers Competition earlier this year.

Hartman’s Bourbon Dinner with Ellicottville Brewing at Rationales

Williamsville’s Rationales is hosting a special bourbon pairing dinner with Ellicottville Brewing and Hartman’s Distilling on Oct. 24. The 4-course dinner, which will feature a brand new collaborative bourbon from Hartman’s Distillery and Ellicottville Brewing, a Barrel Select Bourbon aged in EBC Chocolate Cherry Bomb Imperial Stout barrels, includes 2 bourbon and 2 beer pairings, including Roasted Butternut Squash Bisque, Spicy Caesar Salad, Braised Short Ribs and Parkside Candy chocolates. Limited tickets remain and one attendee will win a bottle of bourbon. Tickets can be purchased online.

Celebrate Halloween This Year at a Brewery

There are a number of options if you’re looking to don your best Halloween costume and grab a fresh locally brewed pint this year. Happening this weekend around Western New York is a free beer and candy pairing at Magic Bear Beer Cellar (Oct. 25, 3pm), King-O-Ween at Southern Tier Brewing (Oct. 26, 11am), including $1 Off Pumking pours, live DJ, costume contest with prizes, 3rd annual Holloween Bar Crawl (Oct. 26, 7pm) at Shalooby Loofer Brewing, Halloween Party at Spotted Octopus Brewing (Oct. 26, 2pm), featuring costume contest, pumpkin painting and carving and drink specials and The Crawling Dead: Halloween Bar Crawl (Oct. 26, 7pm), a choose-your-own-adventure style bar crawl on Hertel Ave. at participating bars and restaurants with drink and food specials, costume contest and more.

Annual Cask Fest at Mr. Goodbar Returns Dec. 5

Mr. Goodbar’s annual Cask Fest returns on Thursday, Dec. 5 (7:30pm). Tickets are $30 and include unlimited tastings of limited edition cask beers from Flying Bison, Old First Ward Brewing and Brickyard Brewing with more breweries to be announced. The cask beer list will be announced in the coming weeks. Tickets also include a complimentary tasting glass and food from Hanzlian’s sausage. Tickets can be purchased in person at Mr. Goodbar.

Bottles & Bites: Flavors of Fall Returns to Statler Buffalo

Combine the best of local food, craft, wine, cider and more at Bottles & Bites: Flavors of Fall, Nov. 14 (5pm) at the Statler Buffalo. Food will be available from The Hawk Bar & Restaurant, Trattoria Aroma, Arriba Tortilla, Fresh Catch Poke and more, beer will be available from Big Ditch, Genesee, Mystic Hills, Shalooby Loofer and Belt Line, mead from Bee Spit and The Mead People, live music from Busted Stuff – Dave/Cyn and more. VIP tickets are $60 and include early entry, sampling, $25 Santora’s gift card, exclusive beer selections and complimentary tasting glass, while general admission is $35 and includes tasting glass and samples. You can purchase tickets here.

Ellicottville Brewing x Platters Chocolate Affogato Tasting Party

On Oct. 30 (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 pairing the beer with a selection of Platter’s chocolates and there will be a prize wheel you can spin to win. This event is free to attend.

WNY Beer Trail Announces 2025 Trail Pass

The WNY Beer Trail 2025 Trail Pass will be available starting Oct. 24. The 2025 Pass features 75 locations across Western New York offering buy one, get one discounts on craft beer and beverages, as well as numerous other discounts and promotions. New for this year is that the pass will be valid immediately upon purchase, along with a discount on brewery tours at Resurgence Brewing and a guide to pet friendly locations. 2025 Trail Passes and other WNY Beer Trail merchandise will be available online at www.wnybeertrail.com and in person at Totally Buffalo stores and Buffalo Gift Emporium.

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: NYBP GABF Win, Bottles & Bites, 2025 Trail Pass, Rationales Bourbon Dinner, Halloween, Cask Fest, EBC Affogato appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Four local breweries (Rusty Nickel Brewing, Eli Fish Brewing, Spotted Octopus, Pressure Drop Brewing) and one meadery (Lilly Belle Meads) have joined forces on Open Bags #6, a massive collaborative fruited sour.

They teamed up with a number of other area breweries and wineries (Stoneyard Brewing, Brindle Haus Brewing, Heritage Hill, Keuka Brewing, Leonard Oakes Estate Winery, McGraw Box Brewing, Nine Maidens, Noble Shepherd, Stumblin’ Monkey, Swiftwater, Willow Rock) on the new collab, which was brewed at Stoneyard Brewing for the first time ever.

Brewery collaborations are fertile ground for innovation and creativity. These partnerships between breweries are not just about creating unique brews, they are about fostering community, sharing knowledge, and pushing the boundaries of what beer can be.

Collaborations allow breweries to share their passion for brewing with others who have similar values and goals. This camaraderie helps strengthen the craft beer community, making it more resilient and supportive.

“The Open Bags Project found a new home at Stoneyard, and for their inaugural version we went BIG. We brought in 15 other breweries and used a total of 14 different fruits for this fruited sour,” the beers’ Untappd post read.

Open Bags #6 is brewed with banana, blackberry, grape, lime, mango, papaya, passionfruit, peach, plum, raspberry, rhubarb, soursop, strawberry, tangerine, vanilla, milk sugar, and ice cream powder.

“The beer came out pretty cool,” Eli Fish head brewer Adam Burnett says. “[It’s the] first one we haven’t brewed at Eli Fish, as it’s just gotten too popular. It started a few years ago as us, West Shore Brewing, and Lilly Belle, burning through odd boxes of fruit we didn’t know what to do with. Now we’re here, nearly 30 breweries deep, doing the same thing. I guess we were on to something. I have a feeling it’ll keep growing. People like finding a use for that one random box of fruit sitting on a skid in the back of the brewery.”

Brewery collaborations are a vital and enriching aspect of the craft beer industry. They embody the spirit of community, drive innovation and creativity, facilitate knowledge sharing, and offer substantial marketing benefits.

“It was a really awesome experience of hanging out all day with multiple other breweries and just swapping war stories,” Pressure Drop head brewer Karl Kolbe said.

As the craft beer market continues to grow and evolve, these collaborative efforts will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping its future, ensuring that the industry remains dynamic, inclusive, and continually inspiring.

“Brewing collaborations are a dynamic exchange of passion, expertise, and creativity, especially for small breweries,” Spotted Octopus Brewing head brewer Domenic Nicotera said. “By uniting their talents and resources, breweries, particularly smaller operations, can push the boundaries of flavor and innovation, crafting extraordinary beers that captivate beer lovers. These partnerships foster a rich environment for learning and growth, as brewers share knowledge, techniques, and insights. Collaborations empower small breweries to expand their reach, strengthen their brand identities, and forge deeper connections with beer enthusiasts, ultimately enriching the local craft beer scene.”

You can find Open Bags #6 on draft and in 16oz. 4-pack cans to go at select breweries and retailers.

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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Farmcraft Brewery to Open This Summer in Strykersville

Our craft beer community is set to grow this summer with the opening of Farmcraft Brewery in Strykersville in Wyoming County. They plan to open an 11,000 square foot two-story taproom complete with seating for 100 guests, retail shop, full bar featuring craft beer, spirits and cocktails, full scale production brewery, private party rooms, outdoor patio with firepit, kitchen featuring artisanal pizzas, and more. They will be located at 567 Route US-20A in Strykersville. Stay tuned to their Facebook page for updates.

Hamburg Tapped Beer Fest at Hamburg Fairgrounds Cancelled

Hamburg Tapped – Hamburg’s Beer Festival, a craft beer festival that was set to come to the Southtowns at the Hamburg Fairgrounds on April 20, has been cancelled. In a post to Facebook, event organizers said, “We are deeply disappointed to announce the cancellation of the Hamburg Tapped scheduled for 4/20/2024. We understand this news is frustrating, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience it may cause. Due to unforeseen circumstances we won’t be able to have Hamburg Tapped this year but plan on keeping it on our events portfolio.” Stay tuned to https://hamburgtapped.com for updates.

Celebrate 420 Week at Pressure Drop Brewing

It’s the week of 4/20 and you know the team at Pressure Drop Brewing is pulling out all the stops. In fact, they are celebrating the entire week with food specials, beer specials and special cask tapping. Kicking off April 17, the brewery will offer such new dishes as How High Grilled Cheese, Cheech & Chong (pork dumpling pot stickers), and Glazed & Confused (maple BBQ pulled pork), as well as desserts and weekend brunch. And on April 20, the brewery is offering $10 4-packs and $4.20 pints of Sticky Trees and Sticky Icky IPA, plus Head Brewer Karl Kolbe will tap an extra dry-hopped cask of Sticky Trees at 4:20pm.

Spotted Octopus Brewing to Celebrate 2^nd Anniversary

Allentown’s Spotted Octopus Brewing are celebrating their second anniversary on April 20 (12pm) with drink specials all day long, special beer releases, including One Foot Cocktopus, a 9.3% dark lager aged in Buffalo Distilling One Foot Cock bourbon barrels, and Lucha Leche Horchata White Stout, and pizza. “I can’t believe it’s been 2 years,” Owner Kenneth Shaw says. “Thanks to everyone who has supported us. Join us Saturday for the celebration. Cheers!”

Magic Bear Beer Cellar Collaborates With OSB Ciderworks

The collaboration machine at Magic Bear Beer Cellar continues to churn, this time with the Larkin outfit teaming up with OSB Ciderworks on RaspBEARy Cheesecake, an amped up version of OSB’s Blueberry Cheesecake Eater with more cheesecake flavors. For the release party, Elise from OSB Ciderworks will be on hand sampling a selection of their other ciders, food will be available from Brisket Love BBQ, and trivia from DJ Trivia will follow the collab release.

Community Beer Works Set to Celebrate 12^th Anniversary

While we all await the opening of the new taproom at Elmwood-Bidwell, Community Beer Works is turning 12, and they are not missing the opportunity to celebrate on April 20 (12pm). Throughout the day, the anniversary party will feature Mr. NO the Balloon Guy, food specials, live music from DJ Crespo, games, exciting giveaways, commemorative merch available, and more. For their anniversary, CBW will re-release Highly Suspicious, a tropical Hazy Double India Pale Ale brewed in collaboration with Prison City Brewing and Thin Man, that’s hopped with Citra, El Dorado, and Sabro, and brewed pineapples. CBW’s new location in the heart of the Elmwood Village at 976 Elmwood Ave. is set to open later this year.

Annual Grapes & Hops Festival at Northwest Arena

This year’s Grapes & Hops Festival will take place April 20 at the Northwest Arena in Jamestown. The festival, which focuses on New York state craft beer, distillery, and wine, will feature Big Ditch, Ellicottville Brewing, Hamburg Brewing, Resurgence Brewing, Southern Tier Brewing, Froth Brewing, Four Mile, BlackBird Cider Works, Clarksburg Cider, Marquee Brewing and more, in addition to Wicked Warrens and Bent Run Brewing from Warren, Pennsylvania, and more. There will also be non-alcoholic options. VIP tickets ($60) include early entry, VIP lounge, food and commemorative glass and General Admission tickets ($30) include a commemorative glass. Designated Driver tickets are also available. Purchase tickets here.

716 EmPOURium Whiskey & Spirits Tasting Returns

The 716 EmPOURium Whiskey & Spirit Tasting, which will feature tastings from local and national distilleries and wineries, will take place at the Union Fire Banquet Hall in West Seneca. This event will be on April 20, 6-9pm. Sample spirits from Buffalo Distilling, Black Button Distilling, Buffalo Trace, Wheatley Vodka, EH Taylor, Eagle Rare and more. Click here to see a full list. Proceeds will benefit the non-profit K.I.A. Memorial Roadmarch, which honors fallen military members from NYS. Purchase tickets here. The day before, April 19, the venue will host Toast The Fallen, featuring live music, food, beer, and more. Visit KIAMemorialMarch.com for more details.

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: Farmcraft Brewery, Grapes & Hops, 716 EmPOURium, Anniversaries at CBW & Spotted Octopus, 420 Week at Pressure Drop, Hamburg Tapped, Magic Bear x OSB Collab appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Community Beer Works Set to Celebrate 11^th Anniversary

Community Beer Works is turning the ripe old age of 11 and they are celebrating with a day filled with fun and games, live music, great beer and food on April 22 (12pm). They will release Double Dry Hopped Frank Pale Ale, pairing it with a custom glass for the occasion, and will also be releasing other exclusive beers. There will be food specials, Mr. No The Balloon Guy, live music from Tim Britt (6pm), carnival games, commemorative anniversary merch and more. The brewery also says they have a big secret, which they will be revealing at the anniversary party.

Buffalo Kush Can & Draft Release at Flying Bison

Flying Bison will release their new Buffalo Kush IPA on, not so coincidentally enough, 4/20 (4pm). As you might expect, Buffalo Kush is big, dank and hoppy, clocking in at 8% and 80 IBUs, with notes of tropical fruit and hop bitterness from the heavy additions of American hops. The beer will be available on draft and in 16oz. 4-pack cans and kegs to go. The brewery also recently released their new Hopcat Oatmeal IPA and brought back 716 Kolsch.

Limited Tickets Remain for Thawfest at Buffalo Riverworks

A limited amount of tickets are still available for Thawfest, which returns to Buffalo Riverworks on April 21. Over 50 local breweries, cideries, distilleries, and wineries will be on hand to samples their newest and most popular brews. Participating breweries include 12 Gates, Big Ditch, Belt Line, Flying Bison, New York Beer Project, Four Mile, Brickyard and more. There will also be live music from the Strictly Hip, craft vendors and more. A wider selection of rare and limited beers, as well as finger foods, will be available in the VIP section. VIP tickets are $65 and general admission tickets are $45. Visit http://thawfest.com/ for more information.

Pink Boots Collaboration Beer Release at Woodcock Brothers

On April 22, the Pink Boots Society will release their International Women’s Day brew, Pink Boots Buf Roots Session IPA, at Woodcock Brothers at Wurlitzer (2-6pm). Pink Boots Buf Roots is an easy drinking, citrusy and tropical IPA that features Cascade and the Pink Boots special hop blend. The release party will feature a woman-owned business vendor market to sip, shop and celebrate all Western New York women. A portion of proceeds from Pink Boots Buf Roots will be donated to the Pink Boots Society, a nonprofit organization focused on women in the fermented beverage industry.

Science After Hours: Why So(Ber) Curious? at Science Museum

With more and more nonalcoholic adult beverages hitting the market, what’s all the hype about? The Buffalo Museum of Science is looking to find out at their next Science After Hours event on April 21 (6-9pm). The event will feature a cash bar with beer and wine, as well as new nonalcoholic adult drink options. Guests are invited to sample N/A beers, zero proof spirits, mocktails, and more. They can also engage in scientific activities throughout the museum. Tickets are $30 (BMS Members save 10%) and include tasting glass and non-alcoholic drink samples. Light snacks will be available for purchase, and guests may bring their own.

WNY Beer Trail Fundraiser for Summit Buffalo at Resurgence

In honor of Autism Awareness Month, WNY Beer trail will host the third annual Summit Buffalo fundraiser at Resurgence Brewing on April 22 (12pm). This event is free and will feature live music from Nico Zarcone and raffles for prizes, including autographed Bills jerseys, autographed 8×10’s (Alex Tuch, Stevie Johnson, Taron Johnson), gift baskets, gift cards and more. There will also be a silent auction for a signed Damar Hamlin #3 full size helmet. There will be a special beer for the event as well, Believe in Summit Pilsner, and Resurgence will donate $1 of each pint to the cause.

Spotted Octopus Brewing Celebrates 1st Anniversary

Allentown’s Spotted Octopus Brewing will celebrate their first anniversary on April 22 (7pm). The party will feature live music from Davey O (7-9pm), food will be available from Under Fire Pizza (3-7pm), drink specials throughout the night and more. The brewery is also bringing back Julia’s Splendid Daydream New England IPA on tap for the event and will be giving away free koozies to the first 25 people in attendance. Pint & Crowler members will receive a free beer & koozie.

Gowanda Brewing at the Wicked Glen Officially Opens

Gowanda Brewing at the Wicked Glen is officially open to the public. The brewery, located at the Wicked Glen in Gowanda, features a 3.5BBL capacity and 7 taps serving their own beer. On tap currently you will find a Saison, Red IPA, Wee Heavy, Honey ESB, Cherry Saison, Porter and Berry Cobbler Sour Ale. They also have plenty of beer in the pipeline, according to head brewer Mike Van Wey, including a DDH Cherry IPA and more. The brewery opens daily at 11am. You can find more information 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: Anniversaries at CBW & Spotted Octopus, Thawfest, New Releases at Woodcock & Flying Bison, Why So(Ber) Curious?, WNY Beer Trail Fundraiser, Gowanda Brewing Opens appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.