Armando DeDona is a hardcore hop enthusiast and a craftsman at heart. Whether he’s building a bar or crafting a recipe, he’s always working with his hands.

Armando’s passion for brewing began over 16 years ago when he received a brew kit as a gift. And, his love for craft beer started a good deal earlier than that. A natural problem-solver and creator, Armando honed his brewing skills over the many years as a home brewer. To get legit, Armando studied commercial beer-making and traditional cask-conditioning in the U.K., and continues to stay in-tune with the latest in the scene.

QUICK FACTs about Armando

• Guiding Principal: I’d rather make something than buy something

• Friends say: I’m totally serious about not being serious

• Favorite hop: Centennial – it’s the workhorse for the IPA

• Favorite beer-pairing: Burger and an IPA

• Unsung beer style you’d like to see thrive in the U.S.: I’d like to see more bars carrying cask-conditioned ales

• Kirk or Picard: Picard