By Julia Burke, Beer Editor

On behalf of the NYCR Beer Team, I’m proud to announce that our “Beers of the Year” program has grown to ten nominees this year.2011 was a huge year for growth and exciting change and we are thrilled to recognize these outstanding breweries, scattered all over the state, for crafting some amazing brews. The following beers represent numerous styles (and riffs on styles), brewing philosophies, techniques, and ingredients but all demonstrate a commitment to quality that makes us proud to say we’re from New York.

Western New York breweries:

Central New York breweries:
Downstate New York breweries:

We will taste these beers and select a Beer of the Year at our tasting over the weekend of February 10-11. Congratulations to all of the finalists.