STAMFORD — After graduating from the University of Connecticut with a master’s degree in business administration, Conor Horrigan wanted to do something he was passionate about, and that did not include working on Wall Street, which he did for a while, or sitting behind a desk all day.

He decided to peddle his optimistic philosophy and a product at the same time. One who is disposed to see the glass half full, Horrigan settled on beer. In early August, Horrigan’s Half Full Brewery in Stamford turned out its first product, Half Full Bright Ale, which on Aug. 7 was available in just three restaurants and bars in Fairfield County. Now 18 establishments are carrying it.