After a short hiatus, Brian is back to recap one of the premier events on the Western New York craft calendar: the 2026 Brewer’s Invitational. Hosted at the stunning New York Beer Project Beer Lodge in Orchard Park, this year’s festival spread across three themed rooms, offering a masterclass in local brewing talent. Brian walks us through the standout pours, the award winners, and why the Beer Lodge is the perfect gauntlet for a world-class beer fest.

While Brian sampled his way through the entire venue, these were the absolute standouts from the Invitational:

• Brewery: New York Beer Project (Orchard Park/Lockport)
• Beer: Neverland Pills
• Style: New Zealand Pilsner
• Verdict: Phenomenal. Bready and toasted with that signature tropical/citrus hop note from the NZ hops. A "super secret" side-pull pour in the brewhouse solidified this as a top-tier choice.
• Brewery: Brickyard Brewing Company (Lewiston)
• Beer: Adamant
• Style: Barrel-Aged Adambier
• Verdict: A rare, historical treat. Complex and expertly executed by Rudy Watkins; a must-try for fans of deep, traditional styles.
• Brewery: New York Beer Project
• Beer: Spawn 2024
• Style: Coolship Wild Ale (Peach)
• Verdict: The most anticipated pour of the day. Delicate, tart, and effervescent with a light peach finish. Worth the year-and-a-half wait since brew day.
• Brewery: First Line Brewing (Orchard Park)
• Beer: Goose Juice
• Style: New England IPA
• Verdict: One of the best hazies from First Line to date, featuring the latest Veterans Blend hops.

The Brewer’s Invitational isn't just another festival; it’s a showcase of technical skill. This year highlighted the rise of Cannon’s Backwoods Brew from Little Valley, who took home the Winners Cup for their blueberry Mexican Lager, Caught the Blues. Additionally, Briar Brothers Brewing earned the Spirit of Imagination Award for their vibrant and inventive Punch Bowl Charmed.

The move to the Beer Lodge has proven successful, providing a professional, spacious, and "built-for-beer" atmosphere that captures the best of the Buffalo scene. If you're tracking the growth of Southtowns brewing, this event is the definitive pulse check. Don't Panic if you missed it—Brian has the full breakdown of what you need to hunt down in cans and at the taprooms this spring.

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