Thin Man Drops New Summer Crusher – Mafia Light Lime

Thin Man Brewery has dropped a new version of their Mafia Light – Mafia Light Lime, an ultra-light and crushable lager that clocks in at 3.5% and only 80 calories with a subtle and refreshing lime note. “Mafia Light Lime (aka summer water?) is here and ready to be crushed by your preferred body of water,” Thin Man says of the new beer. Mafia Light Lime is available now wherever great craft beer is sold, including Chandler Street Breweries, Wegmans and Consumer’s Beverages.

Ellicottville Brewing The Charge Returns With Fresh Look

Just in time for Buffalo Bills training camp, Ellicottville Brewing’s The Charge American Lager has returned with a fresh, updated look. According to the brewery, the new Tailgate Edition design is inspired by the “hardworking communities across the Rust Belt. It belongs at neighborhood bars, game-day gatherings, backyard grills and kitchen tables.” “At 4.8%, The Charge is made for cooler doors and tap handle pours — crushable by the can, crisp by the pint and priced just right to keep in your regular rotation. It’s the kind of beer that shows up, fits in, and keeps good company.” The Charge is available at all EBC taprooms and wherever great craft beer is sold.

Resurgence Brewing Kickoff to Football Beer Release

Resurgence Brewing is celebrating the return of their Buffalo Bills-themed beers – Circle the Wagons IPA and Pilsner and BUF IPA – at a special Kickoff to Football release party on July 30 (5-8 pm). BUF IPA is a hazy IPA brewed with Citra and Cashmere hops and features notes of berries and tropical fruit, Circle the Wagons IPA is dry-hopped with Citra, Galaxy and German Amarillo hops and CTW Pils is a light and crisp American Pilsner. If you wear your favorite Bills gear, you can get $1 off all draft beer, Blackbird Cider, and Brightside Vibes Vodka Seltzers all night long. There will also be beer samples throughout the evening. This event is free and open to the public.

Armstrong’s Beer Co. Eyes Taproom in West Seneca

Armstrong’s Beer Co., a new venture from Alexander Armstrong, whose family owns and operates Armstrong’s Barber Shop and Armstrong’s Armory, has filed plans with the Town of West Seneca to open a new taproom at the former Country Peddler’s building (1340 Orchard Park Road), Buffalo Business First reports. Tentative plans call for a taproom space that serves a rotating beer and wine selection plus a limited food menu of burgers, fries and light snacks. According to Armstrong, Armstrong’s Beer plans to operate a “family-friendly” site open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. with outdoor seating, weather-permitting.

Southern Tier Introduces Pumqueen Imperial Pumpkin Cider

Southern Tier Brewing has teamed up with Bold Rock Cider on Pumqueen, an 8.6% Imperial Pumpkin Cider. Pumqueen “begins with Bold Rock’s signature crisp apple character before unfolding into the familiar magic of pumpkin pie spice.” Southern Tier says it’s rich, aromatic, and smooth. “It’s autumn royalty in every sip. At 8.6% ABV, Pumqueen rules with the strength of an Imperial and the confidence of a Queen. Raise your glass… and bend the knee.”  Pumqueen is available now at all Southern Tier taproom, as well as wherever great craft cider is sold.

Massive Collab, Open Bags, Returns For Eighth Time

Open Bags, a massive collaboration between dozens of breweries across the state, is back for an eighth installment. Brewed at Brockport’s Stoneyard Brewing, Open Bags 8, a collab between Eli Fish, Nine Maidens, Solitude Brewing, Brazen Brewing, Keuka Brewing, Heritage Hill Brewery, Watershed Brewing Company, Spotted Octopus Brewing, Swiftwater Brewing, Irondequoit Beer Company, Runaway Blue Brewing, Noble Shepherd Craft Brewery, Mountain King Brewing, Lake Drum Brewing, Buffalo Brewing, Stumblin’ Monkey Brewing, Talking Cursive Brewing, and Drumlins Brewing. This year’s collaboration features 12 different fruits – watermelon, banana, pink guava, lemon, prickly pear, pineapple, dragon fruit, grapefruit, boysenberry, coconut, Niagara grapes, and apples, as well as marshmallow and vanilla. A limited quantity of Open Bags 8 will be available on draft and in cans at each participating brewery while supplies last.

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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Shalooby Loofer to Become Local Hollow Brewing

Shalooby Loofer Brewing is becoming Local Hollow Brewery. Owner Eon Verrall has made the decision to sell the brewery after they celebrate their third anniversary in August, in order to focus more on family and other professional obligations. Local Hollow will be led by Hilary Dollinger. “What started as a simple three-car garage became something far greater—a magical gathering place filled with friendship, laughter, and unforgettable memories. That is because of you. I couldn’t be more grateful, and I’m confident that this special place will continue to thrive under Hilary’s leadership,” Verrall said. Shalooby Loofer will celebrate its third anniversary and will say goodbye on August 8.

Beerlympic Games Coming to The Lock Tender

Grab your favorite drinking partner and get ready for the inaugural Lock Tender Beerlympics on July 25 (4 pm). This ultimate summer tournament features Cornhole, Knöggle, and Beer Pong out on The Lock Tenders patio. Entry is $35 per two-person team and the champions receive a $75 Lock Tender Bar Tab and the Official Lock Tender Beerlympics Trophy. The tournament is double elimination, and every team is guaranteed to compete in all three games. Register (no ticket fees) at www.thelocktender.com/events.

Wayland Brewing Lancaster Grand Opening on July 9

Wayland Brewing will open its new Lancaster satellite taproom, located inside the former Lilly Belle Meads, on July 9 (11 am). The grand opening will feature beer from Wayland Brewing and food from Buffalo Burger Bros. Lilly Belle Meads 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 Burger Bros. location in the Village of Hamburg with smashburgers, chicken sandwiches, and more. The site features seating for about 40 inside and another 30 outside, with plans to add more. Lilly Belle closed this past December and moved all mead production to West Seneca at Rusty Nickel.

Five & 20 Brewing Debuts New Summertime Brew

Five & 20 Spirits and Brewing have tapped a brand new sunny day brew – Summertime Scream, a 5.2% strawberry lemon shandy. “An utterly crushable interpretation of the classic Continental blend of beer and lemonade – fresh lemon juice and strawberry puree are added to a wheat beer base, resulting in a light, slightly tart drink which screams summertime,” Five & 20 said of the new beer. “Sparkling carbonation lends a brisk and refreshing texture to this beer, and it goes down so easy in the heat.” Summertime Scream is available on draft at their Westfield taproom.

Thin Man Brewery Introduces Mafia Light Lime

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Thin Man’s Minkey Day Is Back This Year

Minkey Day, a celebration of Thin Man Brewery’s flagship raspberry sour, Minkey Boodle, is back this year at Chandler Street Breweries on July 18 (12 pm). There will be four special Minkey collaborations with Frequentem Brewing (Tiki Boodle – Painkiller-inspired sour with raspberry), Prairie Artisan Ales (Minkey Stardust – Raspberry sour with pink Starburst candies), Bellwoods (Jelly Boodle – Raspberry  and Sicilian Lemon Sour) and Atrium Brewing (Banana Boodle Boy – Frozen chocolate raspberry and banana sour), as well as special Minkey Day merchandise, giveaways, food specials and more. This year, the event is free and open to the public.

Hofbrauhaus Buffalo To Tap Barrel Of Pils

On July 2, Hofbrauhaus Buffalo will hold a keg tapping of their HB Pils with a ceremonial parade throughout the beer hall, followed by a tapping of the barrel at 6 pm. According to the brewery, “this Bohemian-style pilsner is golden in color with a kicked-up presence of both malt and hops. The malt profile is slightly sweet and toasted, with a biscuit-like, bread character, balanced with crisp and clean noble hops. Refreshing and satisfying…perfect for summer.” Die Haus Band will perform following the parade. You can make reservations at www.hofbrauhausbuffalo.com.

Celebrate the Fourth of July With Fresh, Local Beer

The Fourth of July falls on a Saturday this year, which means there’s no better time to properly raise a toast to our country with fresh, local beer. And there are several patriotic brews to choose from. Resurgence Brewing’s Citmo IPA got a red, white, and blue makeover to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary (cans available at the brewery), Brickyard Brewing has brought back their fan-favorite blueberry ale, Red, White & Blueberry (limited quantity of cans available at the brewery, select Wegmans locations and DiMino’s Lewiston Tops), and First Line Brewing not only has their Star & Stripes IPA, they have also brought back Freedom Hard Seltzer: Bomb Pop and debuted America 250 Lager (cans and draft available at the brewery). Happy Independence Day to one and all!

Buffalo Brewing Simon Pure Case Sale This Week

If you’re looking to stock up for the holiday weekend, look no further than Buffalo Brewing Company. The brewery has launched a special case sale for all of their Simon Pure products – Simon Pure, Simon Light, Simon Bock and Old Abbey Ale. This week only, all Simon cans are just $25 per case (plus tax and deposit). “Raise a can to America’s 250th birthday! Stock up for the holiday, fire up the grill, and keep your cookout going strong with the perfect beers for summer,” the brewery says. The case sale is only available at the taproom.

Other Half Buffalo Rolls Out 2026 Green City Collabs

While Other Half’s Green City Festival has come and gone this year, you can still get your hands on three special collaboration beers at their Buffalo taproom. Starting July 2, a trio of collabs – Buckle Down Imperial IPA (Parish Brewing & Pinthouse Brewing), brewed with Riwaka, Peacharine and Dolcita hops, Dankest Days Imperial IPA (Finback, Fidens & Hop Butcher), brewed with Columbus Cryo, Nectaron Cryo, Nectaron, Strata and Nelson Sauvin hops, and Pacific Power Imperial IPA (Great Notion, Monkish & Uchu Brewing), brewed with Nelson Sauvin, Peacharine, Citra, Citra Cryo, Amarillo and NZH109 hops – will be available on draft and in cans at the taproom.

BriarBrothers Brewing Fourth of July Case Sale

BriarBrothers Brewing is holding a case sale to make sure all of our fridges are stocked for the long holiday weekend with a special can sale – 24 mix-and-match BB cans for $100. “Whether you’re firing up the grill, spending the day on the water, heading to a family gathering, or relaxing with friends, make sure your cooler is stocked with BriarBrothers,” the brewery said. “Build your own case with all your favorites and keep the beer flowing all weekend long. It’s the perfect chance to stock up before the celebrations begin.” This special is available Wednesday through Sunday.

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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Ellicottville Brewing to Open Bemus Point Location April 24

In a surefire sign of spring and summer in Western New York, Ellicottville Brewing is opening their Bemus Point location on April 24. The taproom, located on Chautauqua Lake, will be open Friday, April 24 (4-9 pm), Saturday, April 25 (12-9 pm), and Sunday, April 26 (12-4 pm). And in honor of opening weekend, there will be live music with Jade Giambrone (6-9 pm on Friday), a bar-exclusive Happy Hour from 4-6 pm ($5 draft beer and wine) and EBC Seltzer tasting on Saturday (2–4 pm, 6–8 pm). EBC Bemus Point is located at 57 Lakeside Drive.

Limited Tickets Remain For This Weekend’s CollaBEERation Festival

One of the most unique Western New York beer festivals, CollaBEERation, takes place this weekend, Saturday, April 25, at The Powerhouse, and a limited amount of tickets still remain. The event features craft beer, cider, mead and more created by members of the Buffalo Beer Geeks community, who teamed up with more than 50 participating Western New York craft venues to create innovative beverages for the event. A number of those collaborative brews have been announced and can be found here. You can also find out more about the event on the official preview podcast with WNY Brews. General admission tickets ($70, includes unlimited pours and commemorative glass) can be purchased here.

Thin Man To Brew New Blue Raspberry Minkey Boodle

Thin Man Brewery recently held a March Madness-inspired tournament to choose the next variant of their popular Minkey Boodle fruited sour and Blue Raspberry was the flavor that reigned supreme of the field of sixteen possible flavor combinations. Blue Raspberry beat out Raspberry Grapefruit, Raspberry Blackberry, Raspberry Kiwi, Raspberry Vanilla, Raspberry Kumquat, Raspberry Blueberry, Raspberry Lemon, Raspberry Peach, Raspberry Cherry, Raspberry Plum, Raspberry Strawberry, Raspberry Apricot, Raspberry Mango, and Raspberry Guava. Blue Raspberry Minkey Boodle will be available on cans and in draft at Chandler Street Breweries in May.

Cabin Fever Beer & Wine Fest This Saturday

The Cabin Fever, Beer and Wine Festival returns to the Buffalo Ski Center/Tamarack Lodge in Colden on April 25 (4-7 pm). The event features tastings from breweries such as Resurgence Brewing, Hamburg Brewing, Big Ditch Brewing, 42 North Brewing, Southern Tier, New York Beer Project, Ellicottville Brewing, Pressure Drop Brewing, Rusty Nickel, Mystic Hills, First Line Brewing and more, as well as meaderies, wineries and distilleries, live music from The Young Relics, raffles, giveaways, auctions, food and more. Tickets are $40 presale and $50 day of and include a commemorative tasting glass, access to all tastings and more. Tickets can be purchased here.

Zwanze Day Returns to Buffalo at Moor Room April 25

As if there wasn’t enough great beer happenings on Saturday, April 25, Zwanze Day, the ultimate day of appreciation for the Lambic beer style, is making a return to Buffalo at Moor Room (3 pm). The event was created by world-renowned Brasserie-Brouwerij Cantillon, who are featuring two very special brews this year – Artemis La Blanche, a blend of gentian, coriander, rhubarb root, juniper, sage, Angelica, wormwood and more, blended with Lambic, and Artemis La Rouge, a blend of verbena, marjoram, rose, apple, curry plant, wormwood and other herbs, blended with Kriek. Both beers will be available at Moor Room, along with Cantillon’s Classic Gueuze, Cuvee Saint-Gilloise, Saint Lamvinus and Vigneronne, along with other special brews from around the country. Tickets still remain for $75, which includes a large pour of both Zwanze beers, a 5oz pour of Cantillon Gueuze and Cantillon Vigneronne and a Zwanze day glass.

Five & 20 Brewing Drops New Beers, Launches Mug Club

Westfield’s Five & 20 Brewing has released a trio of draft-only releases at the their taproom, including a Mint Chocolate Cookie Imperial Stout, Spring Fling, a Berliner Weisse with melon-infused black tea, and (I Like It When You Call Me) Big Hoppa, a hazy 5.4% East Coast IPA brewed with wheat and oats, as well as Cascade, El Dorado, Jaryllo and Galaxy hops.

The brewery has also launched a new mug club – open to 50 members. The club costs $75 (plus tax) and you can sign-up online or in the taproom. Perks include discounts on draft beer, 16oz. ceramic mug, extended hours, discounts on packaged beer, spirits, and wine, Mug Club Party invitation, special club renewal price and more. The Mug Club will kick off on May 28.

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: EBC Bemus Point to Open, CollaBEERation VI, Cabin Fever Fest, Zwanze Day, New Five & 20 Beers, Thin Man Blue Raspberry Minkey Boodle appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Steelbound to Open Niagara Falls Location on May 12

Steelbound Brewery & Distillery are expanding their Western New York footprint with a new location in Niagara Falls at the Sheraton Niagara Falls on Old Falls Street, which is set to open May 12. The brewery and distillery will take over the former TGIFridays space with indoor seating for more than 120 and patio seating for 80 outside on Old Falls Street. Steelbound plans to hire 80-100 employees for the new space. While they will feature wings, burgers and other handhelds, on-site brewing isn’t expected to begin in time for its first season. Steelbound has locations in Ellicottville, Dunkirk, Springville, Williamsville and Las Vegas.

Buffalo Beer League CollaBEERation Ticket Giveaway

The Buffalo Beer League has teamed up with the Buffalo Beer Geeks to give away a pair of general admission tickets (a $140 value) to the sixth annual CollaBEERation Festival, which takes place April 25 at the Powerhouse. To enter, simply watch or listen to the latest WNY Brews podcast, a CollaBEERation preview episode hosted by Buffalo Beer Geek Scott Panfil, and answer this question – what two breweries did Paul and Scott collaBEERate with for 2026? Post your answer in the comments to the contest post on BBL’s social pages and a random winner will be chosen on Monday, April 20. The deadline to enter is noon. If you don’t win, general admission tickets ($70, including unlimited pours and a commemorative glass) can be purchased here.

Farmcraft Brewery Releases First Beer

Strykersville’s Farmcraft Brewery has finally released their first beer – Ripe IPA. This 6% hazy IPA features notes of fresh-squeezed citrus, ripe peach, melon, and tropical fruit. It’s brewed with oats and wheat for a soft mouthfeel, then double dry-hopped with Citra Cryo, Mosaic, Riwaka, and Simcoe hops. Ripe IPA is available in 16oz. 4-packs cans to go and on draft at the taproom.

Flying Bison Homecoming at Mr. Goodbar

After a successful relaunch at Hamburg Brewing, Flying Bison is bringing their Homecoming Tour to Mr. Goodbar on April 23 (4pm). Flying Bison’s Buffalo Lager and Rusty Chain Vienna Lager will be available on draft, there will be an exclusive cask feature, a limited, brewery-exclusive pour, at 4 pm, free pint glasses to everyone who orders a Flying Bison draft beer (while supplies last) and a prize raffle for a Flying Bison Prize Pack, which includes a Flying Bison cooler, 5 Buffalo Bisons flex tickets, gift card, t-shirts, pint glasses, koozies, and stickers. The event is free to attend and open to the public.

Brickyard Brewing Brews IPA, Lager for Wingnutz

The next time you stop into Wingnutz Bar & Grill (1402 Millersport Hwy., Williamsville) for a few orders of chicken wings, make sure you grab pints of Wingnutz IPA and Lager, both brewed by Brickyard Brewing, to go with them. Wingnutz IPA is a hazy IPA that features big notes of juicy tropical fruit and sweet citrus and Wingnutz Lager is crisp and bready with herbal, citrusy hop notes. Both beers are brewed to pair with wings. Wingnutz IPA and Lager are available on draft and in cans to go.

Perry’s, Southern Tier Sip & Scoop Cheat Day Giveaway

Perry’s Ice Cream and Southern Tier Brewing are joining forces on the Sip & Scoop Cheat Day Giveaway, which features prizes such as six pints of Perry’s Cheat Day Ice Cream, Perry’s ice cream scoop, two Perry’s pilsner glasses, $50 Southern Tier gift card and Southern Tier merchandise ($100 value). Entering is free and all you have to do is follow Perry’s and Southern Tier on Instagram, like the contest post and tag a friend. The contest ruins through April 21 and the winners will be notified on or after April 22 via the official Perry’s Instagram account. Cheat Day is the latest collaboration between Perry’s and Southern Tier – an 8.6% dessert beer that features notes of vanilla, brownie batter, cookie dough and brown sugar.

New Thin Man Lager Benefits New York Waterways

Thin Man Brewery has teamed up with Trout Unlimited-Northeast on River Bank Lager, a collaborative new beer brewed with New Zealand-grown Waimea and Motueka hops, to “raise awareness and encourage action in making our water cleaner, our communities healthier and our fisheries stronger.” The beer will be released April 18 (3 pm) at Chandler Street Breweries with raffles for fishing gear, guided trips, books and more, and proceeds supporting the conservation efforts of WNY Trout Unlimited. River Bank Lager is “incredibly light and drinkable,” according to the brewery.

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: Steelbound Niagara Falls, CollaBEERation Giveaway, Brickyard x Wingnutz Beers, Farmcraft Beer, Flying Bison Homecoming, Thin Man Collab Lager, Cheat Day Contest appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

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 2026. 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.

Flying Bison Homecoming at Hamburg Brewing

Hamburg Brewing is paying homage to Flying Bison with a “Homecoming” celebration on Wednesday, March 25 (6 pm). The evening will begin with a special presentation at 6 pm and cask tappings of a Rye Pale Ale and Rusty Chain Vienna Lager. There will also be giveaways, live music at 7 pm and throughout the night, several Flying Bison beers will be available on tap, including Rusty Chain, Buffalo Lager and HERC Barleywine. The event is free and open to the public. Last November, Hamburg purchased the Flying Bison brand, including all associated recipes and trademarks. Moving forward, Hamburg will continue to produce and distribute Flying Bison’s signature beers.

Southern Tier Brewing, Perry’s Ice Cream Cheat Day Collab

The latest collaboration from Southern Tier Brewing and Perry’s Ice Cream comes in the form of Cheat Day Imperial Ale, an 8.6% dessert beer inspired by Perry’s Cheat Day ice cream flavor. Cheat Day features notes of vanilla, brownie batter and cookie dough to go along with brown sugar sweetness. Cheat Day Imperial Ale is available on tap right now at all Southern Tier taprooms, as well as wherever great craft beer is sold later this month.

A Guide To Where To Drink When March Madness Comes To Buffalo

All of the excitement and pomp and circumstance of March Madness is coming to downtown Buffalo as the Queen City will host first- and second-round matchups of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament on March 19 & 21 at KeyBank Center. If you’re coming into town for the games, there are many breweries to visit before, between and after the games. Some are within walking distance from KeyBank Center, some you can drive or rideshare to, and you can also catch a ride on the NFTA Metro Rail. We have taken the best places and broke them down by vicinity to the KeyBank Center in a handy guide.

Buffalo Beer Madness at Buffalo Iron Works

In the spirit of March Madness, which is coming to downtown Buffalo on March 19 & 21 at KeyBank Center, Buffalo Iron Works, Thin Man Brewery and Community Beer Works are teaming up on Buffalo Beer Madness. On March 19 & 21, Iron Works will be offering $1 off all Thin Man and CBW drafts, $6 cans of Thin Man Super Freak IPA, five cans of Thin Man Mafia Light for $20 and $5 shots of Casamigos with any Thin Man or CBW beverage all throughout game days. The event is free and open to the public.

Big Ditch Brewing Introduces Burner Relief Kit

Big Ditch Brewing is hoping to save beer drinkers some hard earned money with the release of the Burner Relief Kit, which includes four 12 oz. cans – two Hayburner IPAs and Dayburner IPAs – for $8.99. “When you urgently need a few fantastic IPAs at a low price, our Burner Relief Kit is the answer,” said Matt Kahn, president and co-founder of Big Ditch. “It’s an easy, budget-friendly grab that delivers quality and variety, without the commitment of a full fridge restock.” The Burner Relief Kit is available at both Big Ditch taprooms, as well as wherever great craft 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: Ruby Red Kolsch, March Madness, Buffalo Beer Madness, Flying Bison Homecoming, Burner Relief Kit, Southern Tier x Perry’s Cheat Day appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

In the spirit of March Madness, Thin Man Brewery is hosting a special tournament to choose the next variant of their popular Minkey Boodle fruited sour.

Minkey Boodle clocks in at 7% and, despite being on the higher end of the ABV spectrum, it features an approachable body. It’s definitely a tart beer, but that’s something fans have loved. Tasting notes? Raspberries on raspberries. Tart raspberries with a dry finish. Drinkable and easy.

We are down to the Elite Eight. There are eight possible raspberry-led contenders left to square off in a bracket-style tournament – new polls will be published each week and the winning flavor will be brewed after the tournament ends. Stay tuned to Thin Man’s social channels for updates.

Remaining contenders include Blue Raspberry, Raspberry Vanilla, Raspberry Blackberry, Raspberry Lemon, Raspberry Peach, Raspberry Plum, Raspberry Strawberry and Raspberry Mango.

For me, I could go a few different ways. My favorite is Raspberry Plum, but Raspberry Vanilla, Raspberry Blackberry or Raspberry Peach would be fun too. If you ask Cameron Frank from Chandler Street Breweries (he’s also the brand manager for one of my favorite local beer imprints, Smoldered Society), he’d love to see Blue Raspberry or Raspberry Strawberry take home the gold. Ironically, my frontrunner (Raspberry Plum) and Cam’s frontrunner (Blue Raspberry) are doing battle in the next round. May the best Minkey win.

Minkey has long been one of Thin Man’s most beloved brews, leading some to call it Buffalo’s favorite sour throughout the years. And when you boil it down, a lot of it has to do with timing.

“I think Minkey Boodle has garnered its popularity for several reasons,” Frank explains. “Minkey Boodle came out during the peak of the craft beer boom, a time when consumers were willing and able to get their hands on the newest innovations from breweries near and far. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve heard bar patrons as “what is that?” when seeing it in a glass — that alone has led to countless conversions.”

You can vote for your favorites via the link in the bio on Thin Man’s social media channels.

Once thought of as just another version of a line of Thin Man fruited sours, it was clear early on that Minkey Boodle was far more special than that.

At its core, craft beer is meant to be fun and Minkey is certainly evidence of that. You don’t have to look much further than the beer name itself – taken from an old Space Ghost skit you’ve probably seen before. And if you don’t remember it – ‘I’ve got a doodle in my noodle, and it’s name is Minkey Boodle, Minkey Boodle! Minkey Boodle! I got my mojo risin,’ there’s a poodle in my strudel. Minkey Boodle! Minkey Boodle!’

“Few people are aware that Minkey Boodle is actually a reference to the old cartoon show, “Space Ghost.” The name is quirky, fun to say, and memorable by virtue of being unique,” Frank says.

I have one last thought – if we can vote on a new member of the Minkey family, can we bring back Minkey Day?

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 Vote for the Next Thin Man Minkey Boodle Variant appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Pizza Plant Transit to Host Imperial March of Stouts

On Sunday, March 8 (12 pm), Pizza Plant Transit will host a bevy of heavy-hitting stouts for their annual Imperial March of Stouts. The event will feature Founders KBS 2019 and 2019 CBS, Goose Island Bourbon County (various vintages), Angry Chair Adjunct Trail, Grimm Onement (Basil Hayden), Old First Ward Brewing Ten Years After Imperial Stout and Other Half 9^th Anniversary Barrel Aged Imperial Stout (collaboration with Homes Brewing), and more. The North Ridge Fanforce will be on hand in full Star Wars costumes, flights will be available and anyone who wears Star Wars gear receives $5 off a flight. The event is free to attend and open to the public.

Hofbrauhaus to Host Marzen Barrel Tapping

Hofbrauhaus will release their seasonal offering, Marzen, on March 5 (6 pm), with a special keg tapping. WNY Heroes will serve as the honorary barrel tappers and from March 5–8, the brewery is hosting a Round Up Campaign – when you close your tab, round up your bill to support WNY Heroes. All guests 21+ will receive a complimentary pour. This springtime Märzen, 5.9%, brewed with Herkules and Select hops, pours burnt orange with aromas of toasted bread, floral spiciness and finishes clean and crisp. For reservations, visit www.hofbrauhausbuffalo.com or call (716) 939-BEER (2337).

First Annual Mead Share at Bee Spit Meadery

On Friday, March 13, Bee Spit Meadery in South Wales will host the First Annual Mead Share, an event supported by Bee Spit customers who will supply meads from around the country. In addition to Bee Spit, several other local meaderies will be represented, including Mead People 716, Three Bear Meadery and Queen City Meadery. Tickets are $45 and include a commemorative tasting tray to hold 10 1oz. tasters, custom 5oz. glass, taco bar, bottomless chili, access to nearly 100 different mead bottles and more. You can purchase tickets here. Event space is limited.

Big Ditch Brewing Lockport First Anniversary Party

Big Ditch’s Lockport taproom is already turning one (they grow up so fast, don’t they?) and the brewery is celebrating on Thursday, March 12 (5-8 pm). The event will feature a limited run of cans of Hoodledasher, a hazy IPA brewed with Mosaic and Calypso hops (available in Lockport on March 12 and Buffalo on March 13), free limited edition t-shirts (first 75 guests), raffles (receive one entry with every beer (or any other menu item), free anniversary cake and live music from Welcome Distraction. The event is free and open to the public.

Buffalo Brewing March Madness Beer Deals

In honor of March Madness, all this month Buffalo Brewing Company is hosting happy hours full of beer deals at their Myrtle Avenue taproom. Throughout March, on every Wednesday and Thursday, 4-6 pm, and Sunday, 12-6 pm, you can visit the taproom and receive $4 pints and $15 pitchers of several fan favorite beers, including 1890 Loganberry Ale, 1789 ESB and Sunday Sauce Dry Hopped Cream Ale.

Vote for the Next Thin Man Minkey Boodle Variant

In the spirit of March Madness, Thin Man is hosting a tournament to choose the next variant of their popular Minkey Boodle fruited sour. Sixteen possible flavor combinations will do battle in a bracket-style tournament – new polls will be published each week and the winning flavor will be brewed after the tournament ends. Contenders include Blue Raspberry, Raspberry Grapefruit, Raspberry Blackberry, Raspberry Kiwi, Raspberry Vanilla, Raspberry Kumquat, Raspberry Blueberry, Raspberry Lemon, Raspberry Peach, Raspberry Cherry, Raspberry Plum, Raspberry Strawberry, Raspberry Apricot, Raspberry Mango, and Raspberry Guava. You can vote for your favorites via the link in the bio on Thin Man’s social media channels.

Sip & Solve: A Beer Investigation at Tap That Tap Room

Sip, solve and crack the case at Tap That Tap Room on March 6 (7 pm) at Sip & Solve: A Beer Investigation. Step into investigator mode for a self-paced mystery night where every solved clue earns your next beer. Each guest receives a personal case packet and works through a series of mystery challenges — earning a beer after each solved clue. Decode hidden messages, analyze evidence, rebuild timelines, and crack the final mystery as you sip and solve at your own pace. A limited amount of tickets can be purchased here (4 beers and 4 bites and puzzle booklet are included with each ticket).

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: Imperial March of Stouts, First Annual Mead Share, Hofbrauhaus Marzen, Sip & Solve, Big Ditch Lockport Anniversary, Minkey Madness, March Madness at Buffalo Brewing appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.

Chandler Street Breweries is open at 166 Chandler Street in Buffalo’s Black Rock neighborhood.

The newly renovated space is a shared taproom for Community Beer Works, Thin Man Brewery, and Smoldered Society Beer Company that features 24 draft lines, wood-fired pizza, a full bar and table service, and a dedicated retail program.

“We wanted to create a destination rooted in Buffalo,” said Yvon Paul Pasquarello, director of sales and
marketing. “By bringing three brands together under one roof, we’re able to offer more variety, more
creativity, and a stronger overall experience, whether you’re stopping in for a pint, a meal, or spending time
in a space built for this city.”

Gone are the colorful murals adorning the walls (I will forever miss Space Ghost, Zorak and Brak), replaced by an upscale, yet cozy and welcoming, feel. With a massive bar, lots of exposed brick, tons of seating and huge garage doors, the reimagined Chandler Street Breweries feels like an industrial lounge, if that’s even a thing. Or as my friend Ryan Demler puts it, it’s ‘Buffalo fancy.’

All the beer served will be brewed in the adjacent Chandler St. facility, where the breweries are consolidating their operations.

“This a bold step forward,” said Pasquerello. “We’re consolidating into a much larger facility that will allow us to operate more efficiently and deliver a truly unique experience for beer lovers in Buffalo and beyond.”

They are open Wednesday through Saturday, 12-10 pm, and Sunday, 12-9 pm.

You can find more information on Chandler Street Breweries 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 X (@buffbeerleague), Instagram, Threads and Untappd (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).

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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).

The post Buffalo Beer Buzz: Mr. Goodbar Cask Fest, New Beers at Southern Tier, Wayland & Thin Man, Bottles & Bites, Holiday Valley Beer & Wine Fest, Hānai Hawaiian BBQ at Buffalo Brewing appeared first on Buffalo Beer League.