Batch275: Lawless Brewing Co. Ben Wallace & Josh McCombs

Craft Beer Republic

Cheers to fresh beers and new breweries! Greg had the opportunity to visit Lawless Brewing in North Hollywood, CA, and sit down with owner Ben Wallace and head brewer Josh McCombs. Not only did they make their way through a couple of great flights, but they also talked about opening a brewery in a pandemic, the importance of sessionable beers, transitioning from television to beer, and why North Hollywood is such an excellent spot for a brewery.
Both Josh and Ben come from Pennsylvania, where apparently they have some bizarre alcohol laws. Ben moved out to California and ended up winning an Emmy as a producer from Entertainment Tonight. Josh talks about his career as a scientist and transitioning into beer. The two met over beers, and it was love at first sip, in a business sort of way.
Lawless may only be a few months old, but they just won gold (and a couple of bronze) at the California Craft Brewers Cup. Just as important as the win? The after (and before) party! Josh talks about his recipe creation and naming process and why sessionable beers are so needed at breweries. The guys also discuss the really cool location, the nod to the old Hollywood business that used to reside in the building, and their new satellite taproom. Next, Josh talks about his dream collaborations and their future plans for the brewery. Finally, the crew finished with a round of rapid-fire questions, and we find out a new term for being drunk.
We’re lead on a guided tasting of some great beers: NoHo BoHo, Academy Gold, Blacklight Czech Dark Lager, Lightbulb Lager, Dankershim IPA, Magic Hour, Soft Focus, Birns & Sour, and Lawless Latte golden stout.
A big thanks to Ben and Josh for their time and for sharing some great beer!
Lawless Brewing Company:
www.lawlessbeer.com
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www.facebook.com/lawlessbeer
www.twitter.com/lawlessbeer
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