This is a part of a continuing series of Q&As with brewers from across the U.S.
Brewer Magazine will share business and personal insights from Brewmasters, Head Brewers, Brewing Managers and others each weekend to help you, a fellow brewer, Brewmaster or brewing manager get to know each other better in the industry and learn more to better develop your own brand.
Augie Carton, Co-founder, Carton Brewing — Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey
BREWER: What is a lesson learned within your position that sticks with you to this day?
CARTON: If you are trying to exist on the experimental innovative edge of craft which by nature is already experimental and innovative you will spend a lot of time communicating concept.
BREWER: Who is your mentor in the industry and why?
CARTON: Sam Caligione [Dogfish Head Craft Brewery] because he created the space of the industry I play in and inspired me to run onto the field.
BREWER: What have you learned from them?
CARTON: Don’t argue or get frustrated. Stay true to your intentions and find those that encourage that path.

BREWER: What have you added to your brewery lately that’s unique or making your business more successful?
CARTON: We’ve been using a lot of liquid nitrogen and a sous vide machine to adjunct for augmentation rather than domination. [Editor’s Note: Yes. We laughed. But we’re still running it in this Q&A!]
BREWER: In today’s business climate for craft beer, how will your brewery grow?
CARTON: Slowly.
BREWER: What sort of innovations in craft beer excite you?
CARTON: Process progressions that make sense.
BREWER: If you had one strategy that you could implement to better the craft beer business, what would it be?
CARTON: More words and dialogue between brewers and drinkers less terms and pictures.
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