Your cart is currently empty!
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.
Latest Posts
- 57/m: Love beer, but it doesn’t love me as much anymore
- No Stupid Questions Wednesday – ask anything about beer
- Does anyone else get treated like a beer snob for ordering literally anything that isn’t a macro lager?
- Is there a polite way to refuse a beer that’s being served in the wrong glassware without making everyone at the table uncomfortable?
- # What’s the most pretentious thing you’ve ever said about beer that you secretly didn’t understand yourself?
Categories
Tags
Social Links
Navigating the Craft Beer Conversation: A Friendly Guide
When discussing beer with friends, finding the right words can be challenging—especially when it comes to distinguishing between everyday brews and the wider world of craft beer. Recently, I found myself grappling with this dilemma. My friends often suggest grabbing some “beer” but show up with packs of budget brews that leave much to be desired. It’s as if they believe all beers are created equal, which is far from the truth!
Picture this: We’re out to dinner, and someone casually points at the menu, declaring, “I’ll take a beer.” Just one option? Really? Meanwhile, I had brought along some excellent craft selections to share but noticed that after one tentative sip, my friends reverted to their go-to light lagers. It made me wonder—how can I introduce them to the vibrant spectrum of flavors in craft beer without coming off as a snob?
I must admit, any attempt to discuss hops, flavor profiles, or brewing methods often leads to blank stares and a mental retreat. It’s disheartening to see my enthusiasm met with indifference, as if I were delivering a lecture on the intricacies of beer appreciation rather than sharing a passion.
So, how do we bridge this gap without alienating our non-craft beer-drinking friends? Here are a few strategies:
-
Start with Common Ground: Instead of launching into the complexities of craft beer, find a common favorite. Ask what they enjoy about their usual brews. This opens the door for comparison without sounding condescending.
-
Share the Experience: Instead of talking about beer, invite friends to a tasting event. Experiences are often more persuasive than discussions, and trying different styles side-by-side can spark interest without the need for a lecture.
-
Use Relatable Analogies: Frame your discussion around familiar topics. Compare craft beers to coffee or wine, highlighting the diverse flavors and methods involved in each. This can make the conversation approachable.
-
Be Adventurous Together: Suggest pairing a different craft beer with dinner. Taste-test together and let them lead the conversation. This collaborative experience can encourage openness to new flavors.
-
Keep It Light and Fun: Ultimately, the goal is enjoyment. Approach discussions with enthusiasm rather than authority, and let your friends’ curiosity lead the way. As they explore, they might surprise you with their willingness to try new things.
Remember,