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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
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- 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 Beer Gap: How to Talk About Craft Beer Without Being Overbearing
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your friends casually mentioned heading out for “beer,” only for them to return with a mass-produced 30-pack? You’re not alone. It can be challenging to discuss and share your love for craft beer with friends who seem content with their go-to budget brands.
Recently, I encountered this exact scenario during a friendly get-together. I excitedly brought along a selection of flavorful craft brews, anticipating an adventurous tasting experience. However, as I watched my friends take a single, polite sip before reverting to their usual lighter options, I realized I was speaking a different language altogether.
When I tried to make conversation about the intricate world of hops, brewing techniques, or the delightful differences in flavor profiles, I could see their eyes glaze over—a clear indication that they had mentally opted out of the discussion, preparing for what they perceived as a looming “craft beer lecture.”
This left me wondering, how can you express your passion for craft beer without coming across as condescending? While it’s hard to ignore the broad spectrum of flavors that craft beers offer in contrast to mass-produced options, there is a way to share your enthusiasm without leaving your friends feeling overwhelmed.
Tips for a Tactful Discussion
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Use Relatable Analogies: Instead of diving deep into brewing science, you might start by comparing craft beer to food. Just as gourmet meals differ significantly from fast food, the same applies to beer. This can help your friends understand the distinction without feeling patronized.
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Invite Exploration: Suggest a tasting night where everyone brings a different kind of beer. This makes it a fun social event rather than a lecture. Encourage your friends to share their thoughts on the various options, fostering an open dialogue.
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Focus on Flavor, Not Technique: When discussing craft beer, emphasize the unique flavors and experiences they can offer. Share what you love about a particular brew, and maybe even highlight specific tasting notes that might intrigue them.
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Respect their Choices: Acknowledge your friends’ preferences, even if you don’t agree with them. Understanding that not everyone has the same palate is crucial. This acceptance can lead to a more constructive conversation about exploring new flavors.
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Lead by Example: When you enjoy and appreciate craft beer without judgment, your friends may naturally become curious and want to