{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/64c555b0c501f600111763a8/69fb79e28c59df7dd5dffe2d?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"71 Billy's Smoking Jacket - Spotted Octopus & Brazen Brewing","thumbnail_width":200,"thumbnail_height":200,"thumbnail_url":"https://open-images.acast.com/shows/64c555b0c501f600111763a8/1778086880627-ef24b4b8-275c-4cf9-a6ec-7c1e093e81f5.jpeg?height=200","description":"<p>This week, Brian visited a downtown Buffalo favorite for a milestone celebration and walked away with a new appreciation for a often-divisive style. We’re talking about <strong>Billy’s Smoking Jacket</strong>, a collaboration between <strong>Spotted Octopus Brewing</strong> and <strong>Brazen Brewing</strong>.</p><h3><strong>The Featured Pour</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Brewery:</strong> Spotted Octopus Brewing (Buffalo, NY) &amp; Brazen Brewing (Lancaster, NY)</li><li><strong>Beer:</strong> Billy’s Smoking Jacket</li><li><strong>Style:</strong> Smoked Spring Bock (Maibock)</li><li><strong>ABV:</strong> 6.2%</li><li><strong>Brian’s Verdict:</strong> This beer is proof that \"sessionable smoke\" isn't a myth. It’s light, smooth, and incredibly approachable. While many smoked beers (Rauchbiers) can feel like drinking liquid campfire, this one uses smoked malt as a subtle undertone that props up the doughy, crisp notes of the Maibock base. It’s the perfect \"patio furniture\" beer for a Buffalo spring.</li></ul><h3><strong>Happy 4th Anniversary, Spotted Octopus!</strong></h3><p>Brian stopped in during the 4th Anniversary bash for Dom, Ken, and the crew. If you haven't been to their spot on <strong>Edward Street</strong> (right near the corner of Franklin and Allen), you’re missing out on one of the most creative taplists in the city.</p><p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Brian heard from the staff that <strong>Billy’s Smoking Jacket</strong> is moving fast. If you want to try this unique collab, get down to the Spotted Octopus taproom sooner rather than later. While you're there, Brian also recommends:</p><ul><li><strong>Call the Kraken:</strong> Their flagship 6.9% Hazy IPA.</li><li><strong>Creations:</strong> A crisp, 4.8% Czech-style Amber Lager.</li></ul><h3><strong>The Smoke Debate</strong></h3><p>Smoked beers are notoriously polarizing—brewers like <strong>Rudy Watkins</strong> (now at Brickyard) have often noted they’d brew more if the public bought them more consistently! Brian challenges you to give this one a shot even if you’re a \"smoke skeptic.\"</p><h3><strong>Connect With The League</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Website:</strong> <a href=\"https://buffalobeerleague.com/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">BuffaloBeerLeague.com</a></li><li><strong>Hotline:</strong> 716-486-BEER (2337) — <em>Call and tell us: Are you Team Smoke or does it taste like a campfire?</em></li><li><strong>Email:</strong> Brian@BuffaloBeerLeague.com</li><li><strong>Socials:</strong> @BuffaloBeerLeague (IG/Untappd/Threads) | @BuffBeerLeague (X)</li><li><strong>Recap:</strong> Check out our other special episode this week recapping the <strong>CollaBEERation 6</strong> festival!</li></ul><p><br></p>","author_name":"The Buffalo Beer League and WNY Brews"}