The Hourglass Brewery

"We do a few classic styles, but normally we like to break them down and do something crazy," Conley says. On a recent preview trip, I was treated to one of these style breakdowns: a pint of blonde ale made with lactose sugar. It was light and easy-drinking like a blonde should be, but had a fuller body and richer flavor thanks to the lactose.

Mason and Conley say they are going to play around with flavors and try to create beers designed to win over customers, not beer judges. "Competitions are usually based on style guidelines and the tastes of Beer Judge Certification Program judges who are very trained on style, style, style," says Conley. "In my opinion, entering beer into a competition is kind of like telling Picasso and Van Gogh to enter a painting competition. It's art, man! Plus it's all relative to the drinker. Everyone's tongues are wired differently. It's a unique experience for everybody; that's why beer is awesome."

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