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Steven Coulson
Steven has been drinking beers, wines and spirits for decades and has a propensity to go about them at length after a few drinks.
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- What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a single beer and was it worth it?
- What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a single beer and was it worth it?
- What’s your favourite thing to do while drinking alone?
- What’s the best way to explain to my friends that there’s a difference between ‘beer’ and ‘craft beer’ without sounding pretentious?
- What’s your favourite thing to do while drinking alone?
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Navigating the Divide: How to Discuss Craft Beer with Friends
Craft beer enthusiasts often find themselves in a unique predicament when socializing with friends who favor traditional lagers. If you’ve ever felt the urge to explain the distinction between “beer” and “craft beer” without coming off as pretentious, you’re not alone. Here’s how to navigate this conversation with grace.
Understanding the Situation
Imagine gathering with friends who casually mention, “Let’s grab some beer,” only to return with a bulk pack of inexpensive brews. It’s a common scenario: many people equate beer with whatever abundantly fills the nearest cooler, leading to moments of disappointment when flavorful options are overlooked.
Take, for instance, the last get-together where you thoughtfully introduced some well-crafted beers. The polite sips from your friends followed by a swift return to their usual fare might leave you feeling frustrated. Suddenly, making mention of hops or brewing techniques seems to trigger a collective disinterest. It can be disheartening when you’re genuinely excited about the diverse landscape of flavors in craft beer.
The Art of Crafting Your Message
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Keep It Casual: Instead of diving into technical jargon, frame your enthusiasm in a relatable way. You might say something like, “Have you guys ever tried a beer with a hint of citrus? It’s a game changer!” This approach piques curiosity without sounding like a lecture.
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Invite Exploration: Consider organizing a tasting party where you provide a selection of craft beers alongside their favored options. This way, friends can sample different styles without feeling pressured. Create an open environment for discussion that invites curiosity rather than dismisses it.
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Share Experiences: Relate craft beer to food and everyday experiences. For example, talk about how certain beers can elevate a meal. “I recently had a rich stout that perfectly complemented a chocolate dessert.” This makes the conversation more about enjoyment rather than superiority.
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Emphasize Variety: Highlight the vastness of the beer world casually. You might mention how different brewing styles, like IPAs or Belgian ales, each offer distinct flavors which can appeal to various palates. “It’s amazing how a single ingredient can transform the whole beer is such fascinating.”
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Accept Their Preferences: At the end of the day, it’s essential to respect your friends’ choices. While you appreciate the nuances of craft beer, not everyone is ready for that journey. Acknowled