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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 Explain the Difference Between Beer and Craft Beer to Friends
Navigating the world of beer can be a delightful experience, particularly when it comes to differentiating between standard brews and the rich variety offered by craft beer. However, explaining these nuances to friends who may prefer mainstream options presents its own set of challenges. A common scenario unfolds when a group decides to grab “a beer,” only to find that their definition is limited to the cheapest options available.
Picture this: you’re at a gathering and, while most people happily reach for a thirty-pack of the usual fare, you bring along a selection of thoughtfully crafted brews. As you take the time to appreciate the unique flavors of a Belgian tripel or a robust stout, your friends take a single sip of your offering, only to revert to their trusted, yet uninspired, choices. This often leaves you feeling like you’re speaking a different language when you mention terms like “hops” or “flavor profiles,” as they mentally retreat into their comfort zone.
So, how do you share your passion for craft beer without coming off as pretentious? Here are a few effective strategies:
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Start with Personal Experience: Instead of lecturing your friends, share your own journey into the world of craft beer. Talk about the first time you tried something unique and how it changed your perception of what beer could be. Relating your experiences makes the conversation relatable.
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Focus on Flavor, Not Technicality: Discuss the flavors you enjoy without diving too deeply into brewing techniques. For example, you might say, “This beer has a hint of citrus and a floral aroma, which makes it really refreshing!” Focusing on taste can intrigue them without overwhelming them with details.
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Organize a Tasting Session: Consider hosting a casual beer tasting. Bring a selection of craft beers and encourage your friends to try them alongside their usual drinks. Frame it as an exploration rather than a lesson to keep the atmosphere light and fun.
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Use Analogies: Many people understand the difference between a generic, mass-produced item and a handmade one in other categories, like food or music. You could say, “Just like how a homemade pizza is different from one from a national chain, craft beer offers a unique experience compared to the usual options.”
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Be Respectful and Open: Remember that not everyone will share your enthusiasm, and that’s okay. A