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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
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- # What’s the most pretentious thing you’ve ever said about beer that you secretly didn’t understand yourself?
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Navigating the Craft Beer Conversation: How to Discuss Brew Differences Without Coming Off As Pretentious
If you’ve ever found yourself in a social setting where your friends casually refer to “beer” as a one-size-fits-all term, you’re not alone. Many enthusiasts are faced with the challenge of bridging the gap between the world of mainstream beer and the rich realm of craft brewing. So, how does one discuss these differences without sounding elitist?
The Common Misunderstanding
It’s a familiar scenario: a group of friends decides to grab some “beer,” only for your companions to show up with a budget-friendly 30-pack. Or, during a meal, someone might simply gesture at the menu and say, “I’ll have a beer,” as if there’s only one option available. It can feel disheartening, especially when you’re excited to share a selection of craft brews that showcase unique flavors and brewing techniques.
Recently, I introduced higher-quality craft beers to a gathering, only to witness everyone take a single cautious sip before returning to their usual inexpensive choices. It’s tough to watch—especially when you know there’s a vast array of flavors just waiting to be explored.
The Challenge of Conversation
The moment I attempt to delve into brewing specifics—hops, flavors, and production techniques—it’s like I’ve triggered an “emergency exit” response in them. You can almost see them glaze over, silently preparing for what they perceive as a lecture on craft brewing.
So, how does one convey the distinction between, say, a crisp Belgian tripel and a mass-produced lager like Miller High Life without sparking resistance?
Tips for a More Engaging Discussion
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Start With Curiosity: Instead of launching into a comparison, ask your friends what they enjoy about their go-to beers. This opens the door for dialogue without sounding like you’re critiquing their choices.
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Share Your Experiences: Offer anecdotes about your own journey into the world of craft beer. Talk about that one unforgettable brew you tried and what made it special. Personal stories can be more relatable and less intimidating.
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Focus on Flavor: Instead of technical details about brewing, discuss flavors and aromas. Invite your friends to think of food pairings or flavors they enjoy and relate those back to specific beers. This can spark interest in trying new options.
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Offer Tasting Events: If your friends are open