The Wagner Valley Brewing Co Story
Welcome to Wagner Valley Brewing Company, established in 1997 by Bill Wagner. We are a small craft-brewing operation located in the Finger Lakes region of western New York. We were one of the early craft breweries in the Finger Lakes and we have grown and learned how to craft the best beers using the best methods. Visitors to the brewery tasting room can sample each of the standard beers along with any seasonal & specialty beers available at the time.
The brew system at Wagner’s is an imported 20-BBL German-style, steam fired, four-vessel brew house, specifically designed for decoction mashing. Wagner Valley Brewing Company is unique in our brewing process for some of our flagship brews by adhering to the Reinheitsgebot of 1516, a German Purity Law that states: “Only the finest Malt, Hops, Yeast and Water can be used in the production of beer. “
This quality standard, used for our standard beers, in conjunction with our Brewers’ talent has resulted in Wagner Valley Brewing continuously winning the most prestigious of brewing awards, capturing numerous G.A.B.F., World Beer Cup and Tap New York medals.
Our People
The people of Wagner Valley Brewing Co are what makes us what we are. Our passion, knowledge and experience show in our brews.Â
Jade Galligan
Head Brewer
Q: How long have you been brewing? How did you get started?
A: I’ve been brewing beer for 2.5 years. I got started when I got to know the brewer at a microbrewery in Arizona, making sodas, juices and small batches together. Meeting people passionate about craft beer instilled that same passion in me. Homebrewing is where it usually starts, and it only grew from there!
Q: Where have you brewed prior to Wagner Valley Brewing Co.?
A: I’ve brewed at home, at nearby Grist Iron, and Anheuser Busch before WVBC. All on very different scales!
Q: How would you describe your brewing style/philosophy?
A: I am a believer that your favorite beer style gives way to one’s personality. I find inspiration in learning new pathways on techniques and styles that I’ve not tried before. Everyone does it a little differently in what suits their situation. These nuances I believe to be intricate, intriguing and always leave me with an open mind Q: never getting stuck going through the motions. Going from a place that mass-produces beer worldwide to being part of a much more tightly knit community that welcomes visitors every year on the lakes shows how beer can touch people more intimately close to home, and reach hands across the world.
Q: What excites you about brewing for Wagner Valley?
A: Brewing brings out an artist among brewers. Malt being a canvas with yeast, hops and additives as the paint. Brewing is just as much about the process and techniques as it is the ingredients. I’m looking forward to painting my own Mona Lisa at Wagner and inspiring others to learn more about how beer ends up in your glass.