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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 Craft Beer Conversation: Bridging the Gap with Friends
Craft beer enthusiasts often find themselves in a delightful yet challenging situation when socializing with friends who favor more mainstream options. If you’ve ever experienced the frustration of trying to share your passion for craft beer with friends who seem oblivious to its nuances, you’re not alone. Here’s a guide on how to bridge the gap without coming across as pretentious.
Understanding the Divide
It’s common to see friends excitedly suggest “Let’s grab a beer,” only for them to show up with a 30-pack of the cheapest lager available. Moments like these can be amusing, yet they often underscore a broader disconnect about what beer truly represents. While one might assume that “beer” encompasses a variety of styles, many still default to the usual suspects, unaware of the incredible world of craft brewing.
The Experience of Sharing
At a recent gathering, I decided to introduce a selection of quality craft beers. To my surprise, the reaction was less than enthusiastic. My friends took a tentative sip, then returned to their familiar choices, seemingly uninterested in exploring the diverse and dynamic flavors that craft beer offers. It’s moments like these that leave you questioning whether it’s worth the effort to introduce your friends to something new.
Finding Common Ground
When broaching the subject of craft beer, it’s essential to remember that not everyone shares the same passion. Instead of diving into the technicalities of brewing or the extensive variety of hops, consider starting with what excites you about craft beer. Share your personal experiences—perhaps a memorable brewery visit or a favorite style. Your enthusiasm can be contagious, even if your friends’ initial reaction isn’t as enthusiastic as you’d hoped.
Inviting Exploration
One effective way to convey the distinction between regular beer and craft beer is through tastings. Organize a small gathering where everyone can sample different styles side by side. This approach allows your friends to experience the flavors without feeling overwhelmed by information. Keep it light and fun; focus on the experience rather than a lecture.
Patience and Acceptance
Ultimately, it’s crucial to recognize that not everyone will develop a taste for craft beer. While it can be tempting to want your friends to share your interests, the key is to appreciate their preferences without disdain. Both craft and mainstream beers have their place, and it’s perfectly okay to enjoy a cold lager at times—craft beer aficionados aren’t above the occasional light beer!