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Buffalo Brews Podcast

Jason Ettinger

"Brewing conversations, one sip at a time!"
We talk craft beer, wine, history, places to go, things to do and much more. Appreciate new experiences and explore the many facets of life has to offer with us… at the Buffalo Brews Podcast.

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  • 20 episodes
  • Avg 44 min
  • English
  • S6 · E193
    Friday · 36 min

    Podtoberfest

    It’s Podtoberfest on Buffalo Brews Podcast! Jason and Josh crack open a lineup of Oktoberfest and German beers while enjoying pork schnitzel, watching WWE Money in the Bank, and discussing Buffalo sports traditions. Then, the conversation takes a spooky turn as they revisit classic horror franchises, favorite scares, and memorable encounters with wrestling stars and actors at comic cons. Visit our website at BuffaloBrewsPodcast.com Email: buffalobrewsPR@gmail.com Follow us on social media. Instagram: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast Facebook: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast TikTok: @BuffaloBrews YouTube: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast X/Twitter: @BuffaloBrewsPod

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  • S6 · E192
    October 8 · 28 min

    BEAR-ly Getting Started 15.2 - Export Lager

    Jason and Craig continue Series 15 of Barely Getting Started: Let’s Talk Lagers with an Austrian-style Export Lager collaboration between Von Trapp Brewing and Jack’s Abby. They explore what defines a lager, the history and purpose of export lagers, and the beer’s crisp, dry, snappy character. Along the way, they discuss tasting notes, food pairings, collaboration brewing, and the science behind lagering. Visit our website at BuffaloBrewsPodcast.com Email: buffalobrewsPR@gmail.com Follow us on social media. Instagram: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast Facebook: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast TikTok: @BuffaloBrews YouTube: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast X/Twitter: @BuffaloBrewsPod

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  • S6 · E191
    October 6 · 32 min

    A View to a Pint

    Jason and Bri take a tour of Western New York’s best brewery patios. From Wayland and Hamburg to Ellicottville, Resurgence, 42 North, and beyond, they share favorite outdoor spaces, great views, food, beer, music, and even dog-friendly possibilities. With summer winding down, they highlight plenty of reasons to enjoy a pint outside while the weather lasts. Visit our website at BuffaloBrewsPodcast.com Email: buffalobrewsPR@gmail.com Follow us on social media. Instagram: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast Facebook: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast TikTok: @BuffaloBrews YouTube: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast X/Twitter: @BuffaloBrewsPod

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  • S6 · E190
    September 18 · 31 min

    Ale Trail & More with The Arc Erie County New York

    We visit The Arc Erie County New York, to explore the 6th annual Ale Trail & More, featuring 45 breweries, wineries, cideries, distilleries, meaderies and more. The event is coming Thursday, September 24th. Luke Kantor and Tom Whitmarsh discuss the event’s growth, community partnerships and fundraising mission, while highlighting Blackwater Acres, The Arc’s innovative new inclusive farm project. Plus, discover what’s pouring, entertainment, vendors and how to get involved. You can purchase tickets for the event at arceriecounty.org/aletrail. Visit our website at BuffaloBrewsPodcast.com Email: buffalobrewsPR@gmail.com Follow us on social media. Instagram: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast Facebook: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast TikTok: @BuffaloBrews YouTube: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast X/Twitter: @BuffaloBrewsPod

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  • S6 · E189
    August 26 · 42 min

    Ready to Drink (RTD) Cocktails

    Jason and Bri explore the history and evolution of ready-to-drink cocktails, from wine coolers and Zima to today’s booming RTD market, followed by a cosmopolitan taste test. They also recap recent adventures, including hiking to the Eternal Flame, meeting celebrities at Comic-Con, discovering a long-awaited beer, celebrating the Fourth of July, and navigating Canadian wildfire smoke. Visit our website at BuffaloBrewsPodcast.com Email: buffalobrewsPR@gmail.com Follow us on social media. Instagram: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast Facebook: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast TikTok: @BuffaloBrews YouTube: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast X/Twitter: @BuffaloBrewsPod

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  • S6 · E188
    July 29 · 28 min

    BEAR-ly Getting Started 15.1 - Maifest Lager

    In this series, entitled Let's Talk Lagers: Jack's Abby Edition, Jason and Craig explore the story behind one of America's premier craft lager breweries while diving into the traditional German Maibock style. Learn about decoction mashing, natural carbonation, and what makes this spring seasonal lager so crisp, balanced, and food-friendly as the series kicks off with a toast to classic brewing techniques. Visit our website at BuffaloBrewsPodcast.com Email: buffalobrewsPR@gmail.com Follow us on social media. Instagram: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast Facebook: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast TikTok: @BuffaloBrews YouTube: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast X/Twitter: @BuffaloBrewsPod

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  • S6 · E187
    July 24 · 1 hr 7 min

    Summer BBQ and Wine in the FLX

    A recap of the 'Sizzlin' Summer BBQ' adventure through the Seneca Lake Wine Trail and sharing standout wines, barbecue pairings, unforgettable winery experiences, and a few unexpected surprises along the way. From Three Brothers and Hazlitt to Spotted Duck Creamery and War Horse Brewing, they highlight their favorite stops, offer travel tips, and celebrate the people, flavors, and stories that make the Finger Lakes a must-visit destination for wine lovers. Visit our website at BuffaloBrewsPodcast.com Email: buffalobrewsPR@gmail.com Follow us on social media. Instagram: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast Facebook: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast TikTok: @BuffaloBrews YouTube: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast X/Twitter: @BuffaloBrewsPod

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  • S6 · E186
    July 8 · 38 min

    Rails, Running and Rochester (and Keuka Lake too!)

    Adventures are in full swing as Jason and Bri recap a packed few weeks that included Kentucky Derby excitement, brewery hopping in Rochester, exploring the Keuka Lake beverage trail, and kicking off another season of hiking and 5Ks. The duo shares highlights from visits to Strange Bird Brewing, Fairport Brewing, Keuka Brewing, Crooked Tusker Distillery, Steuben Brewing, Abandon Brewing, and Lake Life Brewing, along with stops at Weis Vineyards and Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery. From hazy IPAs and maple pecan porters to handcrafted cocktails and a first taste of absinthe, there's no shortage of great drinks and memorable experiences. They also discuss the Rochester Lilac Festival 5K, preparations for the Buffalo Marathon 5K, Rails & Ales, birdwatching on the trails, favorite local restaurants, upcoming events, and why every Lilac Festival deserves a signature lilac-inspired beer or cocktail. Grab your favorite beverage and join Jason and Bri for another fun-filled episode packed with craft beer, Finger Lakes travel, outdoor adventures, and plenty of laughs along the way. Visit our website at BuffaloBrewsPodcast.com Email: buffalobrewsPR@gmail.com Follow us on social media. Instagram: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast Facebook: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast TikTok: @BuffaloBrews YouTube: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast X/Twitter: @BuffaloBrewsPod

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  • S6 · E185
    June 16 · 36 min

    BEAR-ly Getting Started 14.4 - Belgian Pale Ale

    It's the finale of Series 14: Paler Pints, Jason and Craig wrap up the series with Strange Bird Brewing's Belgian Pale Ale, exploring how Belgian yeast creates the fruity and spicy flavors that make these beers stand out from the crowd. Plus, a look back at the styles covered throughout the series and an update on everything happening at Magic Bear Beer Cellar. Cheers to another season of beer education! Visit our website at BuffaloBrewsPodcast.com Email: buffalobrewsPR@gmail.com Follow us on social media. Instagram: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast Facebook: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast TikTok: @BuffaloBrews YouTube: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast X/Twitter: @BuffaloBrewsPod

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  • S6 · E184
    May 21 · 33 min

    Walk the Wine, Hike the Beer

    Snow, sunshine, wine, beer, and arcade nostalgia — this episode of The Buffalo Brews Podcast has it all. Jason and Bri recap an unforgettable weekend on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, favorite wine and cheese pairings, staying at Grist Iron Brewing, and brewing their own collaboration sour with Resurgence Brewing for the CollaBEERation Festival. Plus: wild weather stories, standout festival beers, VIP pours, candy nostalgia, and future pinball road trip plans. Grab a drink and hang out with us! Visit our website at BuffaloBrewsPodcast.com Email: buffalobrewsPR@gmail.com Follow us on social media. Instagram: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast Facebook: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast TikTok: @BuffaloBrews YouTube: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast X/Twitter: @BuffaloBrewsPod

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  • S6 · E183
    May 7 · 30 min

    BEAR-ly Getting Started 14.3 - Blonde Ale

    Jason and Craig continue the “Paler Pints” series with a look at the classic Blonde Ale, featuring “Something Cold” from Edmund's Oast of Charleston, SC. From craft beer history and gateway beers to brewpub nostalgia and crisp, easy-drinking flavor profiles, this episode explores how blonde ales helped bring more people into the craft beer world. Craig shares stories from visiting the brewery’s multiple locations while breaking down the style’s history, flavor profile, and role in craft beer culture. Together, Jason and Craig discuss the beer’s crisp drinkability, subtle floral and bready malt notes, and how blonde ales became the perfect introduction for drinkers looking to step beyond traditional macro lagers without diving headfirst into aggressively hoppy beers. Along the way, the conversation wanders into Buffalo brewpub nostalgia, the rise and slowdown of the modern craft beer boom, beer-and-food pairings, and why approachable styles still matter in today’s beer landscape. The episode closes with a tease for the series finale featuring Strangebird and another evolution in the world of pale beers. Visit our website at BuffaloBrewsPodcast.com Email: buffalobrewsPR@gmail.com Follow us on social media. Instagram: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast Facebook: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast TikTok: @BuffaloBrews YouTube: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast X/Twitter: @BuffaloBrewsPod

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  • S6 · E182
    April 30 · 37 min

    Seneca Lake Wine Trail interview with Brittany Gibson, Executive Director

    We sit down with Brittany Gibson, Executive Director of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, to explore what makes this Finger Lakes destination so special. From the trail’s history and its 27 member wineries to the evolving business of winemaking—including unique models like alternating proprietorships—we dive into the industry side that most visitors never see. We also break down the wine trail’s most popular events like Deck the Halls, Chocolate & Wine, and Spring Wine & Cheese, and how they turn a simple tasting trip into a full weekend experience. Brittany shares insight into the marketing behind these events, how they drive tourism, and why collaboration between wineries is key to the region’s success. Plus, we talk about seasonal tasting passes, behind-the-scenes vineyard experiences, the impact of climate on grape growing, and why the Finger Lakes continues to rank among the top wine destinations in the country. If you love wine, travel, or discovering local gems, this episode is your guide to planning the perfect Seneca Lake getaway. Visit our website at BuffaloBrewsPodcast.com Email: buffalobrewsPR@gmail.com Follow us on social media. Instagram: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast Facebook: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast TikTok: @BuffaloBrews YouTube: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast X/Twitter: @BuffaloBrewsPod

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  • S6 · E181
    April 22 · 32 min

    BEAR-ly Getting Started 14.2 - West Coast Pale Ale

    Continue with the “Paler Pints” series from Magic Bear Beer Cellar, Jason and Craig dive into the evolution of the American Pale Ale. Using Alternate Ending Beer Company’s Gigawatt West Coast Pale Ale as their guide, they explore how the style emerged from English pale ales and became a defining pillar of the American craft beer movement. From the impact of homebrewing legalization under Jimmy Carter to the rise of iconic breweries like Sierra Nevada, the conversation traces how American hops—bringing citrus, pine, and grapefruit notes—helped create a bold new identity for beer in the U.S. Along the way, they break down the differences between West Coast, hazy, and traditional pale ales, discuss how labeling shapes expectations, and reflect on the cyclical nature of the craft beer industry—from the boom of the ’90s to today’s consolidation. It’s part history lesson, part tasting experience, and all about appreciating a true pioneer of American craft beer. Visit our website at BuffaloBrewsPodcast.com Email: buffalobrewsPR@gmail.com Follow us on social media. Instagram: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast Facebook: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast TikTok: @BuffaloBrews YouTube: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast X/Twitter: @BuffaloBrewsPod

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  • S6 · E180
    April 16 · 42 min

    Festival Season Incoming

    Jason and Bri recap a whirlwind New York Craft Beer Day that turned into a full weekend of breweries, great food, and unexpected adventures—from fundraisers and new beer spots to pinball and a close call on the road 😅 They also preview upcoming local beer festivals, including Collaboration Fest, Rails & Ales, and more—perfect for planning your next craft beer outing. Cheers to beers 🍻 Visit our website at BuffaloBrewsPodcast.com Email: buffalobrewsPR@gmail.com Follow us on social media. Instagram: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast Facebook: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast TikTok: @BuffaloBrews YouTube: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast X/Twitter: @BuffaloBrewsPod

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  • S6 · E179
    April 8 · 23 min

    BEAR-ly Getting Started 14.1 - American Bitter

    We’re back! 🍻 Back for the first time in 2026, the Buffalo Brews Podcast returns with “Bear-ly Getting Started: Paler Pints”—our most crushable series yet. We kick things off with Dancing Gnome’s Elk Artist, a smooth, easy-drinking American ale that bridges classic English styles and modern craft. If you’re into lighter beers with big flavor (and lower ABV), this season is for you. 🎧 Listen now & raise a glass with us—cheers! Visit our website at BuffaloBrewsPodcast.com Email: buffalobrewsPR@gmail.com Follow us on social media. Instagram: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast Facebook: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast TikTok: @BuffaloBrews YouTube: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast X/Twitter: @BuffaloBrewsPod

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  • S6 · E178
    April 1 · 47 min

    Winter Winddown

    In this lively, pre-Easter episode, Jason and Bri settle in with a standout American IPA—Flash Frame from Grimm Artisanal Ales—to recap a busy and fun-filled month since returning from their cruise. The duo dives into highlights from the recent New York State Craft Beer Awards, celebrating big wins for Western New York breweries and sharing shoutouts to standout spots like Resurgence Brewing Company, New York Beer Project, and Rusty Nickel Brewing Company. They also spotlight must-visit destinations in the Finger Lakes and Rochester areas, including Strangebird and Brewery Ardennes. From there, the conversation shifts to hands-on brewing experiences, including their latest collaboration beer crafted at Resurgence for the upcoming CollaBEERation Festival. Bri shares what it’s like getting involved in the brewing process firsthand, while Jason reflects on how much goes into crafting beer on both small and large scales. Beyond beer, the episode captures their recent adventures around Western New York—from the Buffalo Spring Market to a standout meal at D.A. Taste—plus brewery-hopping in the Rochester area with stops like Stumbling Monkey Brewing Company and DeWolf Brewing Company, where Spanish-inspired food and creative brews left a lasting impression. They also recap completing their winter hiking challenge, sharing stories from muddy trails and scenic stops, before wrapping up with one of their favorite local traditions—the Williamsville Soup Stroll. The event not only delivered incredible flavors but also raised significant funds for local charities, highlighting the strong sense of community in the area. Visit our website at BuffaloBrewsPodcast.com Email: buffalobrewsPR@gmail.com Follow us on social media. Instagram: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast Facebook: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast TikTok: @BuffaloBrews YouTube: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast X/Twitter: @BuffaloBrewsPod

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  • S6 · E177
    March 25 · 48 min

    Tampa Bay Brew Tour

    Jason and Bri recap their DIY Tampa Bay beer tour packed with incredible Florida craft beer experiences. Cracking open a fresh Jai Alai IPA by Cigar City Brewing, they dive straight into a journey through Tampa, Ybor City, and beyond. The duo shares highlights from standout stops including the veteran-owned Bad Monkey, the charming and award-winning Sky Puppy Brewing, and fan-favorite Tampa Bay Brewing Company. They explore unique beers like mango-habanero sours, citrus-forward IPAs, and even a rum barrel-aged seltzer that stole the show at Magnanimous Brewing. Their adventure continues with stops at Angry Chair Brewing, the historic Dunedin Brewery, and the vibrant Green Bench Brewing Company, where they also experience the contrasting, wine-like atmosphere of Webb’s City Cellar. Along the way, they discover how Florida’s beer scene thrives on hyper-local distribution, fresh ingredients, and creative experimentation. The trip culminates at Arkane Aleworks, home of their 2025 Beer of the Year, where they uncover the fun, Disney-inspired naming behind beers like “Belle Barbecue” and sample inventive creations from a Fallout-themed lineup. From Cuban sandwiches at a hidden gem eatery to beer gardens, trolley rides, and unexpected brewery locations, this episode is packed with travel tips, brewery insights, and a deep appreciation for Florida’s vibrant craft beer culture. If you’re planning a Tampa trip—or just dreaming of one—this episode is your perfect guide. Cheers! 🍻 Visit our website at BuffaloBrewsPodcast.com Email: buffalobrewsPR@gmail.com Follow us on social media. Instagram: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast Facebook: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast TikTok: @BuffaloBrews YouTube: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast X/Twitter: @BuffaloBrewsPod

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  • S6 · E176
    March 19 · 40 min

    Anatomy of a Podcast

    Jason pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to build and sustain a podcast over five years. From the spark of an idea during the 2020 pandemic to producing over 175 episodes, Jason breaks down the full anatomy of a podcast—covering inspiration, gear, recording, editing, and publishing in clear, practical terms. Along the way, he shares the story behind the show’s creation—born out of pride for Buffalo and a desire to highlight the city’s food, drink, and community in the face of outside criticism. Listeners will also get an inside look at the tools and techniques that power the podcast, from microphones and mixers to editing software and AI enhancements, plus lessons learned, mistakes made, and tips for staying consistent without chasing perfection. Jason also reflects on the growth of the podcast, including global reach, listener feedback, and the importance of reviews in helping shows thrive. He highlights collaborations within the Western New York beer and podcast community, and teases exciting future projects and partnerships on the horizon. Whether you’re thinking about starting your own podcast or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes, this episode offers an honest, informative, and inspiring look at turning a passion project into something sustainable, meaningful, and fun. Visit our website at BuffaloBrewsPodcast.com Email: buffalobrewsPR@gmail.com Follow us on social media. Instagram: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast Facebook: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast TikTok: @BuffaloBrews YouTube: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast X/Twitter: @BuffaloBrewsPod

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  • S6 · E175
    March 5 · 1 hr 38 min

    Podcast of the Caribbean 3

    Jason and Sabrina kick off Season 6 of the Buffalo Brews Podcast with the Podcast of the Caribbean 3. From a snowy Buffalo airport mishap to landing in a freezing Tampa, the adventure begins before they even board the ship. The duo shares first impressions of sailing on the Norwegian Star, their experience with Norwegian’s new Free at Sea Plus package, and the unexpected perks of cruising with a smaller, more relaxed crowd. Along the way they sip Jamaican rum, meet new friends from Canada, enjoy sunrise walks at sea, and even go full 1920s Gatsby style for a memorable night onboard. Visit our website at BuffaloBrewsPodcast.com Email: buffalobrewsPR@gmail.com Follow us on social media. Instagram: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast Facebook: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast TikTok: @BuffaloBrews YouTube: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast X/Twitter: @BuffaloBrewsPod

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  • S5 · E174
    February 11 · 1 hr 57 min

    Blissfully Belgian

    We are celebrating the release of Bear-ly Getting Started: Series 1 on YouTube (audio-only format) by releasing Blissfully Belgian here. All four, original episodes in one. Produced by the series selected by the World Podcast Network and listened to in over 60 countries. Visit our website at BuffaloBrewsPodcast.com Email: buffalobrewsPR@gmail.com Follow us on social media. Instagram: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast Facebook: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast TikTok: @BuffaloBrews YouTube: @BuffaloBrewsPodcast X/Twitter: @BuffaloBrewsPod

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