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But First, Beer.

But First, Beer.

By Jim and Dana Higgins

A married couple discusses various amusing topics while starting each show tasting a delicious beer. Follow us on Instagram @butfirst.beer
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S02 E23 - Singlecut Beersmiths

But First, Beer.Jun 13, 2019

00:00
43:59
S05 E01 Hot Sauce Challenge

S05 E01 Hot Sauce Challenge

Today we sipped on a double IPA from Fiddlehead and a New Zealand style pilsner from Wild East. We sampled 7 different hot sauces from mild to hot. Join us for some laughs. Welcome back!
Jul 29, 202337:44
S04 E04 - Beer Holidays

S04 E04 - Beer Holidays

Today we sipped on Wild East Brewing’s Tour De Table which was a collaboration with Beer Noggin. We talked about different Beer Holidays around the globe.
May 16, 202145:18
S04 E03 - Breweries

S04 E03 - Breweries

In this episode we discussed some of the oldest breweries in the world and enjoy the weird and Gilly from SingleCut Beer Smiths in Queens, NY.
Feb 28, 202139:22
S04 E02 Valentine’s Day

S04 E02 Valentine’s Day

Today we celebrated Valentine’s Day with a collaboration beer from Finback and various other breweries. The beer is called Breathing : Conversations and is made to bring awareness to the social and racial injustices here in the states.
Feb 14, 202146:11
S04 E01 - Burlington, VT

S04 E01 - Burlington, VT

In this episode we talk about our recent trip to Burlington, VT. We visited a few breweries and had some amazing seafood chowder. Enjoy!
Feb 08, 202143:07
S03 E06 - Rob Piersall - Beer In Review

S03 E06 - Rob Piersall - Beer In Review

Today we sat down with our friend Rob Piersall to enjoy a new beer from Lock City and Run & Hide (collaboration beer). We talked about our favorite beers from 2020 and had a few laughs while doing so...
Dec 19, 202055:11
S03 E05 - Chef Jay Ducote

S03 E05 - Chef Jay Ducote

Today we "hopped" on Zoom to reunite with our good friend Chef Jay Ducote. We tasted beer from both Louisiana and New York based craft breweries and talked about the latest happenings in Jay's crazy culinary world. Enjoy! 

Aug 15, 202059:14
S03 E04 - Starguira

S03 E04 - Starguira

Today we hopped on Zoom to film our latest episode (Quarantine Addition). We were blessed to have Hector Barrientos aka @Starquira (IG) join us on the show. This hilarious musician hails from Washington Heights, NYC and the Dominican Republic. We learned about his upbringing and how he was drawn to Merengue music from an early age. We spoke about his love for music, beer, coffee and more. We hope you enjoy the show!
May 31, 202055:06
S3 E3 - Quarantine Birthdays

S3 E3 - Quarantine Birthdays

Today Dana and I recorded an episode from home to talk about quarantine birthday and different activities you can do to celebrate at home during this crisis....
Apr 24, 202045:17
S3 E2 Everyone Stay Home

S3 E2 Everyone Stay Home

We recorded this episode at home during the COVID-19 crisis. We drank IPAs from Burlington and Threes while giving our listeners some activities to do at home with their friends and family.
Mar 22, 202044:29
S3 E1 - Beer & Cheese Please

S3 E1 - Beer & Cheese Please

In this episode we interviewed Meagan Planell who is a Cheese Monger in Bronxville, NY. We tasted 6 different types of cheese and paired them with Barrier Brewing Company’s Dubbel Down which is a 7.4% Belgian Dubbel.
Feb 23, 202037:27
S02 E32 Beer In Review

S02 E32 Beer In Review

Today we went to Beer Noggin in Bronxville, NY to sit down with our friend Dan Fennel to talk about our favorite beers of 2019. We also mentioned favorite beers of some family members and friends. You’ll be hearing from us again in 2020!
Dec 29, 201938:56
S02 E31 Joe’s Cellar Beer

S02 E31 Joe’s Cellar Beer

Today we travelled to Beer Noggin’s Mt. Kisco, NY location to sit down with Doug Cedrone and Joe Vicidomini to taste some of Joe’s cellar collection. He has been collecting craft beer for many years and was nice enough to bring 4 stellar beers on our show.
Nov 10, 201901:00:43
S02 E30 Women in Beer - A Live Podcast

S02 E30 Women in Beer - A Live Podcast

Today we recorded our first live audience podcast at Beer Noggin’s Mount Kisco, NY location. We sat down with Sofia Barbaresco of Industrial Arts Brewing Company and LeAnn Darland & Tara Hankinson of Talea Beer Co. We did a deep dive into how women are putting a dent in the male dominated craft beer industry.
Nov 09, 201943:56
S02 E29 Sloop Brewing Company

S02 E29 Sloop Brewing Company

Today we travelled to Hopewell Junction, NY to visit Sloop Brewing Company. We sat down with Joe Turco who is Sloop’s Director of Sales & Marketing. We tasted their Hoppy Pils, Confliction sour and Juice Bomb New England IPA. This brewery has a full service kitchen with an amazing selection of tasty dishes. Check out our Instagram for photos.
Oct 27, 201956:58
S02 E28 - Sing Sing Kill Brewery

S02 E28 - Sing Sing Kill Brewery

Today we traveled to Sing Sing Kill Brewery in Ossining, NY. We sat down with brewery owners Eric and Matt to talk about their beers, their beginnings, the taproom and upcoming events. Stop by this Hudson Valley / Rivertown based brewery and let them know BFB sent ya!
Oct 13, 201945:31
S02 E27 Talea Beer Co.

S02 E27 Talea Beer Co.

In this episode we spoke to Tara Hankinson and LeAnn Darland of Talea Beer Co. Their innovative approach to beer will surely have a wider reach and attract new beer lovers! We are incredibly excited to watch this woman and Veteran owner brewery grow.
Oct 09, 201954:26
S02 E26 Peekskill Brewery

S02 E26 Peekskill Brewery

Today we traveled to Peekskill Brewery to sit down with Brandon Cruz who is the brewery’s Sales & Marketing Manager and Jason Weiss from Craft Beer Guild. We tasted Skills Pils, Amazeballs, Voyager and Hidden Track. Come on up to Peekskill to taste these delicious suds and enjoy their amazing menu.
Sep 08, 201955:16
S02 E25 The Croton Tapsmith

S02 E25 The Croton Tapsmith

Today we traveled to Jim’s hometown of Croton-On-Hudson, NY to have some suds with our new buds Tracy and Toni of The Croton Tapsmith. They are the only Hudson Valley centric craft beer destination pouring beer from breweries that are within a 3 hour drive from your barstool. Their Neapolitan pizzas and Arancini balls are to die for and we highly suggest you visit them soon.
Sep 01, 201953:44
S02 E24 - Ancient City Brewing Co. - St. Augustine, FL

S02 E24 - Ancient City Brewing Co. - St. Augustine, FL

Today we sat down with the fine folks of Ancient City Brewing in St. Augustine, FL. We tasted 3 of their signature brews and had an amazing time!
Jul 17, 201941:22
S02 E23 - Singlecut Beersmiths

S02 E23 - Singlecut Beersmiths

We visited Singlecut Beersmiths in Astoria, NY. We sipped on Mighty Real IPA. It is a 5.6 ABV IPA with tasting notes of hibiscus. We hung out with Honz Williams who is the Taproom Manager of this location. They also have a location in Clifton Park in upstate NY.
Jun 13, 201943:59
S02 E22 Delilah Brooks

S02 E22 Delilah Brooks

In this episode, we speak to the lovely Delilah Brooks! We chat about growing up in the Bronx, getting into Drag and moving onto an exciting job in Chicago! We sipped on Mikkeller’s Hop A Cab. This IPA is 6% ABV, brewed with barley, oats, and wheat. Hopped with Mandarina Bavaria. Hazy notes of melon make this delicious beer delightful. Mikkeller’s Subway Mosaic is also 6% brewed with barley, oats and wheat. It is brewed with Mosaic hops. Light body and bright finish with notes of blueberry, mango and citrus.
Jun 11, 201940:18
S02 E21 YoFi Fest - The Yonkers Film Festival
Jun 02, 201941:60
S02 E20 Wolf & Warrior Brewing Company

S02 E20 Wolf & Warrior Brewing Company

Today we sat down with Mike and Mark at Wolf & Warrior Brewing Company in White Plains, NY. We tasted a flight of 4 of their beers (Patagonia, Vuk, Fly Casual and We Shall Double Our Efforts). We spoke about their beginnings as home brewers and how they became friends. Their location offers craft beer, wine, whiskey, coffee, tea and a very tasty menu.
May 11, 201945:06
S02 E19 Exciting news at Moriarty’s!

S02 E19 Exciting news at Moriarty’s!

In this episode I spoke to my friend, Pete, about becoming an owner, having Shilelagh Law play on the avenue for the 1st time in 5 years (!) and Gaelic Park being on fire this weekend! We sampled Ray’s IPA from Yonkers Brewing Co that does a great job of bridging NE and West Coast IPA styles.
May 04, 201937:42
S02 E18 The Wesley Men

S02 E18 The Wesley Men

In this episode we sampled Abita Strawberry Lager. It’s my favorite season beer! It signifies that juts spring time in Louisiana which is Birthday season for me! Coming in at 4.2% ABV and 13 IBUs, it is made with Louisiana Strawberries, Pilsner and Wheat malts and Vanguard hops. Pairs well with crawfish-yes Lawd!
My brother Jason did me the honor of being my Co-host as Jim is in NY. Our father Rev. Lee T. Wesley was our special guest. We discussed his life, his passion for community service and growing up on The Lake.
Apr 26, 201941:05
S02 E017 The Local - Nyack, NY

S02 E017 The Local - Nyack, NY

Today we traveled to The Local in Nyack, NY to sit down with the owner Travis Koester. We sipped on their collaboration with District 96 Brewery called Giraffe’s Aren’t Just High Horses, Grimm’s Jam Don’t Shake and Equilibrium’s DHop16. We learned about Travis’ rural Virginia upbringing and how he came to own this awesome craft beer destination. He is also opening up a brew pub here in Nyack called Two Villans. Take the trip to see Travis and his amazing staff.
Apr 20, 201940:28
S02 E16 The Green Growler

S02 E16 The Green Growler

Today we visited The Green Growler Beer grocer in Croton-On-Hudson, NY. We sat down with the new owner Evan Perdomo-Cohen to talk about his upbringing, his musical talents and how he came to own this hometown libation location. We sipped on beers from Foreign Objects, Common Roots and The Alchemist.
Apr 13, 201943:25
SO2 E15 Nashville

SO2 E15 Nashville

Jess Begos gifted us with beer from her hometown. We tried Fat Bottom Brewery’s Knockout IPA, Jackalope Brewing’s Thunder Ann American Pale Ale and The Black Abbey Brewing Company’s The Rose a Belgian Blonde Ale. We also discussed fun Nashville facts and weird laws. It’s a good time folks!
Apr 13, 201946:06
S02 E14 Mayanoki - NYC

S02 E14 Mayanoki - NYC

In this episode we traveled to the East Village of NYC to visit our friend TJ Provenzano who is the proprietor of Mayanoki which is a sustainable sushi restaurant. They have 2 seatings per night Wednesday thru Sunday. We sipped on KCBC’s Straphanger Lager as we learned about the beginnings of Mayanoki and got to know Chef Jeff. This 8 setting sushi powerhouse was just reviewed in the New Yorker...call to set your reservation and prepare to be blown away.
Apr 06, 201947:02
S02 E13 - Horsefeathers, Sleepy Hollow, NY

S02 E13 - Horsefeathers, Sleepy Hollow, NY

We visited the legendary Horsefeathers in Sleepy Hollow, NY. We sipped on Thomas Hardy’s Ale (Aged 26 Years) and The Alchemist’s Heady Topper with owner Jules McCue. We spoke to Jules about how she grew up in the establishment that started in 1981 and became the owner recently. Come thru to Horsefeathers for their amazing burgers and selection of craft beer.
Mar 24, 201940:08
S02 E12 Prime 16 - Pelham, NY

S02 E12 Prime 16 - Pelham, NY

Today we traveled to Prime 16 in Pelham, NY to speak with the owner, our friend Dave. We sipped on Burlington Beer Company’s Petal Prophecy which is a Honey IPA (6%ABV). We spoke about Dave’s entree into the bar and restaurant industry and the opening of Prime 16. We highly recommend this spot for their tasty menu and amazing selection of craft beer.
Mar 09, 201935:18
S02 E11 Björn

S02 E11 Björn

In this episode we sat down with Björn Van Wyngaardt, event planner extraordinaire, of Björn & Company. We spoke about his upbringing in South Africa, his career as an event planner in New York and his upcoming Get Fork’d LGBTQ event happening this Summer in Manhattan.
Mar 03, 201950:54
S02 E10 Island to Island Brewing, NY/TX

S02 E10 Island to Island Brewing, NY/TX

Today we visited Danii Oliver who is the owner and head brewer at Island to Island Brewing located at 642 Rogers Avenue in Flatbush, Brooklyn. We talked about her upbringing, family roots and being exposed to mixology at an early age. We were also joined by Brandon Montgomery of Black Beer Travelers who talked about his love of beer, running races around the globe and his upcoming trip to Costa Rica.
Mar 02, 201952:02
S02 E09 Meeting My Anxiety

S02 E09 Meeting My Anxiety

In this episode we sat down with the author of Meeting My Anxiety, Elisa Silverglade Rader. We sipped on Mikkeller Brewing Company’s Whats Love Hop To Do With It which is an New England style IPA (6% ABV). This beer is made with Citra and Galaxy hops. Elisa speaks about her upbringing, college life and her recently released book and companion book.
Feb 24, 201938:13
S02 E08 Angelique

S02 E08 Angelique

Today we sat down with Angelique Piwinski. We sipped on Central State Brewing Company’s Noyau which is a 5% rustic blonde ale. We spoke about her transition in an effort to educate people on the LGBTQ community.
Feb 23, 201955:33
S02 E07 - Ms. Donna Davis

S02 E07 - Ms. Donna Davis

This evening we sat down with Ms. Donna Davis aka Ms. Yonkers. We sipped on Central Waters Brewing Company’s Barleywine Ale which is aged in bourbon barrels for 12 months. We talked about her upbringing in the City of Yonkers, her nursing career, love of photography and community service. We love you, Donna Davis!!!
Feb 23, 201901:15:04
S02 E06 Rustik Tavern

S02 E06 Rustik Tavern

Today we traveled to Brooklyn, NY to visit the Rustik Tavern which is owned by Queens native Frantz Metellus. The Manager Rudy Charles also joined us...we talked about the restaurant, the neighborhood and they shared a very funny story. Come down to 471 Dekalb Ave in Brooklyn to check out this amazing comfort food destination. The beer we sipped on was Brew York from Ithaca Brewing Company. It is a 5.3% very approachable Pale Ale made with NY ingredients.
Feb 17, 201934:40
S02 E05 - Very Lovely Soles

S02 E05 - Very Lovely Soles

In this episode we spoke with our friend Vanessa Siede, the owner and head designer of Very Lovely Soles. Her company offers designer flats and flip flops for women. We sipped on Half Acre Brewing Company’s Gone Away IPA (7% ABV) and talked about the beginnings of her company and path to entrepreneurship.
Feb 11, 201932:40
S02 E04 Brewski’s in Da Bronx

S02 E04 Brewski’s in Da Bronx

Today we traveled to Brewski’s Bar & Grill in Da Bronx. We sat down with the owner Brian Torressen. We sipped on Fox Farm Brewery’s ŻYTO which is a Kvass inspired farmhouse ale (4.4% ABV). We talked about his days in the merchant marines traveling all over the globe, beer and food. Come on down to Brewski’s to enjoy amazing craft beer and comfort food.
Jan 27, 201938:13
S02 E03 Little B’s

S02 E03 Little B’s

Today we traveled to Tarrytown, NY to hang with Dave Thomas, the owner of Little B’s. We tasted Dogfish Head’s American Beauty, which is a special release ale made with oatmeal, honey and hibiscus (6.5% ABV). Come to Little B’s to meet Dave and have an amazing build your own burger experience.
Jan 26, 201935:58
S02 E02 Bread & Brine

S02 E02 Bread & Brine

In this episode we visited Bread & Brine in Hastings-on-Hudson, NY and interviewed our friend and owner Jeremy McLellan. We sipped on Maine Brewing Company’s IPA named Lunch.
Jan 12, 201942:56
S02 E01 Westtown Brew Works

S02 E01 Westtown Brew Works

In this episode we visited Jim’s cousin Rich Coleman who is the owner of Westtown Brew Works in Orange County, NY. We tasted their Three Hives amber ale and Major Award seasonal holiday ale. We learned about how Rich got into the brewing industry and grew his business. Thank you, Rich!
Jan 04, 201953:30
S01 E22 Jill

S01 E22 Jill

In this episode we talk to our friend Jill Wright. We talk about her role with the NY Yankees, her college days and her hometown. We tasted Half Acre’s Daisy Cutter Pale Ale.
Dec 29, 201834:35
S01 E21 Sharif!

S01 E21 Sharif!

In this episode we interviewed our amazing friend and Brewer Sharif Abou-Taleb and tasted 3 different beers. We spoke about Sharif’s passions which include beer, food, photography and making people laugh.
Dec 23, 201851:23
S01 E20 Untappd

S01 E20 Untappd

Today we interviewed Greg Avola from Untappd. We tasted Suarez Brewing Company’s Small Talk which is a hoppy lager with simcoe hops.
Dec 13, 201836:10
S01 E19 Santa’s Coming!

S01 E19 Santa’s Coming!

In this episode we talk about Christmas past, present and future. We tasted Naked Flock’s / Applewood Winery’s Santa Sauce cider and Sloop Brewing Company’s (No) Santa NEIPA.
Dec 08, 201834:10
Sofia! - Industrial Arts Brewing Company S01 E18

Sofia! - Industrial Arts Brewing Company S01 E18

Today we have a VIP tour of Industrial Arts Brewing Company in Garnerville, NY. We spoke to their General Manager Sofia Barbaresco. We tasted Tools of the Trade and Wrench.
Nov 17, 201852:28
Austin, Texas S01 E17

Austin, Texas S01 E17

In this episode we taste a hoppy marzen and an oatmeal breakfast stout. We also talk about our visit to the city of Austin, Texas.
Nov 11, 201839:04
Halloween S01 E16

Halloween S01 E16

In this episode we tasted two beers and one cider. We talked about the origins of Halloween (Dana’s favorite holiday!), costumes and trick or treating. You’ll have to listen to find out what we tasted...enjoy!
Oct 13, 201847:59