The Best Beer I Drank This Week ep.3 Ellicottville Brewing Fan Zone IPA

This week, we're drinking a Fan Zone IPA from Ellicottville Brewing. Formally "Tailgate Time IPA", this re-branding is still the same recipe we fell in love with last year. Quite possibly the best beer Ellicottville makes, and based on their portfolio, that's high praise for this Football-Season staple. Grab one wherever great beer is sold.

Also, check out Marc from Mount Morris's suggestion from Underground Beer Labs called Variance: Nectaron. You can call in and let us know you're favorite beer this week at (716) 486-BEER (2337).


All of the WNY Brews podcasts are at BuffaloBeerLeague.com/podcast


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Publish Date: 8/1/2023




Recent Episodes

It’s a massive weekend in the Queen City! While Brian is resting up, Scott is flying solo to break down the best spots for hoops fans, new budget-friendly packs, and the "official" start of Spring in Western New York.

Scott is tasting the new Southern Tier Steady Yeti EZ IPA (3.8%)—a crisp, sessionable pour that might just be the new king of the Overpack.


This Week’s WNY Beer News:
    March Madness in Buffalo (March 19 & 21): The NCAA Men's Tournament has arrived at KeyBank Center. Check out our Handy Guide to Downtown Drinking at BuffaloBeerLeague.com to find the best spots within walking distance or a quick Metro Rail ride.Buffalo Beer Madness at Ironworks: Located steps from the arena, Ironworks is teaming up with Thin Man and CBW for game-day specials, including $1 off drafts and $5 shots of Casamigos to keep the energy high.The Burner Relief Kit: Big Ditch Brewing is looking out for your wallet. This new $8.99 "relief pack" features two Hayburners and two Dayburners—the perfect grab-and-go for when you need quality without the full 12-pack commitment.Cheat Day is Here: Southern Tier and Perry’s Ice Cream have launched their latest collab: Cheat Day Imperial Ale (8.6%). Expect big notes of vanilla, brownie batter, and cookie dough. It’s dessert in a glass.Flying Bison Homecoming (March 25): Hamburg Brewing celebrates the legacy of Flying Bison starting at 6 PM this Wednesday. Catch cask tappings of Rye Pale Ale and Rusty Chain, plus giveaways and live music.The Kolsch Returns: It’s official—Genesee Ruby Red Kolsch is back on shelves for 2026. The grapefruit summer staple is hitting stores now in all your favorite formats.
The Buffalo Beer League Hotline:

Are you downtown for the games or sipping a Cheat Day stout? Let us know what's in your glass: 📞 716-486-BEER (2337)


Support the New Feed:

We have officially split the Buffalo Beer Buzz into its own dedicated podcast feed! The best way to help us grow is to Rate and Review us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.


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Publish Date: 3/21/2026


Welcome to the new home of the Buffalo Beer Buzz! While we are still cross-posting on the WNY Brews feed for a little while longer, make sure you hit that "Follow" button here on the new feed and leave a review to help us grow.

This week, Scott is sipping on a classic Big Ditch Dayburner, while Brian digs into the back of the fridge for a Smoldered Society Strike Anywhere: Into the Dark (a Dark Czech Pilsner).


This Week’s WNY Beer News:
    Hofbrauhaus Märzen Tapping (March 5): The seasonal Märzen is back! Enjoy a complimentary pour (21+) and support WNY Heroes with their roundup campaign. Our own Scott (BBL Co-founder) confirms it's one of their best of the year.Sip, Solve & Crack the Case (March 6): Head to Tap That Tap Room in Tonawanda for a self-paced mystery night. $50 gets you 4 beers, 4 bites, and a case file to solve.Imperial March of Stouts (March 8): Pizza Plant Transit goes full Dark Side. Star Wars costumes, heavy hitters like Goose Island Bourbon County and Angry Chair, and $5 off flights if you’re in gear.March Madness Deals: * Buffalo Brewing Co: $4 pints and $15 pitchers (yes, pitchers!) on select beers all month long.Thin Man "Minky Madness": Vote on the next Minky Poodle variant. Will Raspberry Kiwi take the crown? Check their IG to vote.Big Ditch Lockport’s 1st Anniversary (March 12): They grow up so fast! Free cake, live music, and the return of Hoodledasher Hazy IPA.First Annual Mead Share (March 13): Bee Spit Meadery hosts a massive share in South Wales featuring 100+ bottles and local favorites like Queen City and 716 Mead People.St. Paddy’s Warmup (March 14): Rusty Nickel’s Music Fest features 10 hours of music, Irish dancers, and a massive 4,800 sq. ft. party tent.
The Buffalo Beer League Hotline:

Found a mystery beer you can’t stop thinking about? Tell us why it’s the best thing you drank this week:

📞 716-486-BEER (2337)


Links & Support:

Socials: @BuffaloBeerLeague (IG/Untappd) | @BuffBeerLeague (X)

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Publish Date: 3/6/2026


The team is back on a brand-new recording platform as we prepare for the official Buffalo Beer Buzz feed split. Scott is sipping on a Steelbound Reposado (with a splash of lime), and Brian is working through his stash of Buffalo Brewing Simon Pure.

This week, we’re talking about massive release parties, bittersweet liquidations, and enough giveaways to fill a growler.


Inside This Episode:
    The Brewers Invitational (Feb 28): It’s the 7th annual return to the NYBP Beer Lodge (Orchard Park). We preview a wild beer list featuring Mortalis, Other Half, and Big Ditch.The Big Reveal: NYBP is pouring their first-ever Coolship Ale. Brian might not leave that table.Another Caucasian Gary (Feb 26): Resurgence Brewing is hosting the release party for this award-winning White Russian Stout. Meet the other Scott (McMillan), enjoy bowling contests, and try the Maple or Cinnamon Toast Crunch cask versions. The Dude abides!Steel Leaf Liquidations: As Steel Leaf prepares to close their doors this Saturday, they’re hosting a liquidation sale on Friday (Feb 27) from 10 AM – 7 PM. Furniture, fixtures, and brewing equipment—everything must go.Giveaway Mania:Big Ditch & The Ridge: Enter via Step Out Buffalo for $100 gift cards (Deadline: Feb 26 & March 2).Golf Buffalo Expo: Win two tickets ($70 value) for the March 14th event at Pearl Street via Tap & Craft’s Instagram.Evil or EVL?: Ellicottville Brewing drops their new EVL Tea House line. We settle the debate: is it "E-V-L" or just "Evil"? (Spoiler: It’s Evil).
Win Tickets to the Brewers Invitational!

Brian has five pairs of tickets to give away. Head over to the @BuffaloBeerLeague Instagram right now, find the pinned post with the tasting glass, tag a friend, and you could be headed to the Beer Lodge this Saturday!

The Buffalo Beer League Hotline:

Are you heading to the Steel Leaf "Drain the Bar" party or the Gary release? Call us and let us know what you're drinking: 📞 716-486-BEER (2337)


Support & Links:
    Amazon Shopping: BuffaloBeerLeague.com/amazonThe Best Beer I Drank This Week: Check out Episode #18 for the deep dive on Another Caucasian Gary with Scott McMillan.Follow Us: @WNYBrews & @BuffaloBeerLeague on all platforms.


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Publish Date: 2/26/2026


Scott and Brian are back together after Brian’s excursion to the "Happiest Place on Earth." This week, the conversation spans from the excitement of the upcoming high-holy season of Irish music to the sobering reality of recent brewery closures in Western New York.

Important Update: The Buffalo Beer Buzz is officially moving to its own podcast feed! To make sure you don't miss a single weekly update come April or May, search for "Buffalo Beer Buzz" in your favorite podcatcher and hit follow.


On Tap This Week:
    Team Disney Recap: Brian is back and sipping on a Buffalo Brewing Simon Pure, while Scott enjoys a classic Hamburg Brewing Irish Red (with a roasty twist).YouTube Bound: We’re moving toward video! Watch Scott solve a Rubik's cube in record time while discussing the nuances of dark copper lagers.Keenan Wine & Beer Bash: Happening Feb 21st at the Keenan Center Arena. Wine gardens, live music, and "Blaster Ball"—whatever that is!Brewski at Knox Farm: 42 North's legendary event is officially SOLD OUT. If you have tickets, get ready for a two-mile trek through the park with five beer samples.Autism Acceptance Month: First Line Brewing and the Summit Center are teaming up for "Foundations," a dry-hopped American Lager with Strata hops. Pre-orders are open now!Sabreshood Bar Network: Johnson’s Landing is now a Sabres destination—games with the volume ON and watch parties with alumni.
The Bitter News:

We discuss the closing of two local staples: One-Eyed Cat Craft House and Steel Leaf Brewing. Brian and Scott reflect on their history with these spaces and the shifting climate of the local craft beer scene.


The Road to St. Paddy's:
    The Brewers Invitational: Feb 28th at NYBP Beer Lodge in Orchard Park. Stay tuned to our socials for a potential ticket giveaway!The Great Guinness Toast: Catch Scott and his band, Almost Seamus, at the Buffalo Irish Center tomorrow night (Feb 20th).
The Buffalo Beer League Hotline:

Did you drink something world-class this week? Tell us about it and you might hear yourself on a future episode! 📞 716-486-BEER (2337)


Connect With Us:


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Publish Date: 2/20/2026


It’s Friday, February 13th, and Scott is flying solo! With Brian Campbell currently exploring the "happiest place on earth," Scott braves the 30-degree Buffalo chill with a Hayburner in hand to bring you the latest from the Buffalo Beer Buzz.

In this episode, we talk about some major changes coming to the podcast feed, celebrate a few upcoming anniversaries, and look ahead to the return of golf (and baseball) season.


Inside This Episode:
    The Big Split: We are officially moving the Buffalo Beer Buzz to its own dedicated podcast feed! Keep an eye on your podcast catcher for the new channel so you don't miss the weekly news updates. WNY Brews will remain your home for deep-dive interviews with brewers and industry pros.Wildflower Meadery turns 1! Celebrate their first anniversary on February 28th (4–10 PM) at the Niagara Frontier Food Terminal. New taproom exclusives and the launch of the "Buzz Club" are on the horizon.Peppers Nightclub: News on the former Froth Brewing taproom at 700 Military Road. Everest Brewery owner Shamsher Singh is planning a spring opening for "Peppers," featuring live bands, DJs, and a full dinner menu.
    Bisons & Brews: The Southern Tier Craft Beer Pack is back! Get two undated tickets and four craft beer vouchers for $64. Season kicks off March 27th.
    Golf Buffalo Expo: Mark your calendars for March 14th at Pearl Street Grill & Brewery (3rd & 4th floors). $35 gets you a tasting glass and samples from 10+ craft brands.
    NYS Craft Beer Day: April 11th (4/11) is the day to celebrate. Look out for the limited-edition commemorative pint glass designed by Pints and Panels.
Support the Show:
    Amazon Affiliate Link: Heading to Amazon? Start your journey at BuffaloBeerLeague.com/amazon and help support the podcast at no extra cost to you.Rate & Review: If you're digging the solo Scott vibes (or just want to welcome Brian back), leave us a review!
The Buffalo Beer League Hotline:

Did you drink something better than a Hayburner this week? (Unlikely, but possible!) Tell us about it: 📞 716-486-BEER (2337)


Upcoming Gigs:

Catch Scott’s band, Almost Seamus (formerly Almost Shameless), throughout the First Ward this March!

    Next Up: The Great Guinness Toast at the Buffalo Irish Center on February 20th.Web: almostseamus.com


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Publish Date: 2/14/2026


The Buffalo Beer Buzz: Buffalo On Tap & Summer Brew Dreams

Welcome back to WNY Brews! This week, Scott and Brian dive into the latest edition of the Buffalo Beer Buzz. We’re breaking down everything happening in the Western New York craft scene for the weekend of February 6th and beyond.

From massive festivals at the convention center to "never-before-seen" flavors hitting North Buffalo, we’ve got your weekend plans covered.


On Tap This Week:
    Buffalo On Tap: Everything you need to know about the two sessions happening this Saturday, February 7th. We talk ticket prices, VIP perks, and the massive brewery list.The Hayburner Walk: Scott discusses his local "gas station staple," while Brian counters with a $9.99 throwback find from Buffalo Brewing Company.Erie County Fair Homebrew Competition: It’s time to start brewing! We discuss the 2026 entry dates (April 1st – May 4th) and the "gentle" nudge toward summertime refreshers.Hofbräuhaus Release: Tonight’s the night for the Doppelbock tapping to benefit Hunter’s Hope.Epic "Never" Flavors: What is Steel Leaf Brewing up to with their new small-batch series? We speculate on taco beers and soy sauce stouts.Pearl Street News: A new West Coast IPA (Resin Runner) and a Neapolitan pizza upgrade in the basement.
Support the Show:
    Amazon Affiliate Link: Doing some shopping? Use BuffaloBeerLeague.com/amazon to help us pay those pesky hosting fees!Rate & Review: If you enjoy the show, leave us a 5-star review on your favorite podcast app.
The Buffalo Beer League Hotline:

We want to hear from you! What is the best beer YOU drank this week? Leave us a voicemail and get featured on the show. 📞 716-486-BEER (2337)


Follow Us:

WNY Brews (Scott):

The Buffalo Beer League (Brian):


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Publish Date: 2/7/2026


This week's Buffalo Beer Buzz has stories on this year's 4 The Ward collab from Resurgence Brewing, BriarBrothers Brewing, Frequentem Brewing Buffalo and Gene McCarthy's/Old First Ward Brewing Co., Froth Brewing taproom to close this weekend, this year's Cabin Fever Beer & Wine Festival at Buffalo Ski Center, the return of Another Caucasian, Gary at Resurgence and grand opening of 42 North at the Vault in East Aurora.

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Publish Date: 2/3/2026


Scott & Brian Together Again!

Remember us? After a post-holiday hiatus, Scott and Brian are back together on Western New York Brews to catch up on beer, life, and what’s happening around the Buffalo beer scene for the weekend of January 23–25 (yes, the really cold one).

The guys kick things off with what they’re drinking, including Ellicottville Mow Master IPA and a Walmart-sourced Neon Rainbows, before diving into the latest Buffalo Beer Buzz highlights.

This week’s episode covers:

    42 North’s 6th Annual Barrel Jam (indoors this year due to the cold), featuring barrel-aged beers, VIP options, and why it’s still one of the best winter beer events aroundBrickyard Brewing’s Maelstrom, a new 11.6% barrel-aged blend available in limited 500ml bottlesHabitat for Humanity 2026 Craft Brew Tour Cards, offering free drinks at 28 WNY breweries while supporting a great causeBuffalo On Tap returning February 7 with VIP and GA sessions at the Buffalo Convention CenterThe Brewers Invitational at New York Beer Project’s Beer Lodge on February 28Updates on recent local beer news, including Froth Brewing’s taproom closure and the return of the For the Ward collaboration among Old First Ward breweries

Brian also teases upcoming ticket giveaways for Buffalo On Tap and the Brewers Invitational, so now’s a good time to follow along online.

Read the full Buffalo Beer Buzz every Wednesday at BuffaloBeerLeague.com.

Follow Buffalo Beer League:

    Instagram, Threads & Untappd: @buffalobeerleagueX: @buffbeerleagueFacebook: facebook.com/buffbeerleague

Cheers!


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Publish Date: 1/24/2026


The Show

Scott Panfil brings you WNY Brews from beautiful Buffalo in Western New York. Whether you think its a Noun or a Verb, the word “brew” has numerous meanings and all of them are well-worth talking about.

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