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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.
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?
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Bridging the Gap: How to Discuss Craft Beer with Friends
As a craft beer enthusiast, navigating conversations about beer can sometimes be a challenge, especially when your friends use the term “beer” interchangeably with inexpensive mass-produced options. If you’ve ever found yourself in a situation where your friends roll in with a 30-pack of budget beer or simply order a generic “beer” at a restaurant, you may relate to the struggle of wanting to share your passion without sounding pretentious.
Understanding the Divide
It’s not uncommon for casual drinkers to overlook the nuances between standard beer and craft beer. When the conversation turns to taste profiles, brewing techniques, or the diverse flavors available in the craft beer world, many friends might seem disinterested. You may evoke reactions that suggest they’ve mentally switched off, as they brace themselves for what feels like an impending “lecturing” on the intricacies of hops and malts. The reality is, for many, the distinction between a light lager and a Belgian tripel seems irrelevant.
The Flavorful Appeal of Craft Beer
While it’s tempting to roll your eyes at their preference for light lagers or pilsners that taste, as some might say, “like carbonated bread water,” remember that this is an opportunity to introduce them to something new rather than alienate them with terms they might not understand. The world of craft beer is rich with flavors, aromas, and experiences, and part of the joy of being a craft beer enthusiast is sharing these with others.
Strategies for Meaningful Conversations
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Share Your Experience: Rather than diving straight into technical jargon, start by sharing a personal story about your discovery of craft beer. Explain how you found a new favorite or had an unforgettable tasting experience. Personal stories can be more engaging and relatable.
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Focus on Flavor: Discuss what you love about craft beer in terms of taste. Highlight the flavors in easy-to-understand terms. For instance, instead of talking about hops, you could say, “This beer has a citrusy flavor that reminds me of fresh oranges,” rather than delving into brewing processes.
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Invite Exploration: Suggest a tasting night where everyone brings a beer they wouldn’t normally choose. This creates an atmosphere of discovery and adventure, allowing your friends to sample a variety of options without feeling pressured.
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Encourage Curiosity: If the topic arises, offer to share interesting facts or stories about different beer styles