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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?
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- 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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Understanding the Craft: How to Explain the Difference Between Beer and Craft Beer
Navigating the world of beer can sometimes feel like a daunting task, especially when it comes to differentiating between standard beers and the ever-expanding realm of craft beers. If you’ve found yourself in this predicament among friends, you’re certainly not alone. Many beer enthusiasts grapple with how to convey their passion without coming across as pretentious or elitist.
Imagine this scenario: You’re out with your friends, and they enthusiastically suggest grabbing some “beer.” The next moment, they show up with a case of whatever mass-produced brew is on sale, often overlooking the delightful and diverse options available in the craft beer scene. You might feel a pang of disappointment when they dismiss some thoughtfully chosen craft brews merely because they’re not familiar with the taste.
Craft beer is often seen as an art form, with a wide variety of flavors and brewing techniques that mass-produced brands simply can’t replicate. When you bring a carefully curated selection of artisanal beers to the gathering, only to watch your pals take a solitary sip before returning to their familiar options, it’s hard not to feel a bit alienated.
So how can you effectively communicate the intriguing differences between these two worlds without alienating your friends? Here are some thoughtful strategies:
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Start with Curiosity: Instead of launching into a technical discussion about hops and brewing processes, ask your friends about their preferences. “What kinds of flavors do you enjoy in your drinks?” This can open up the conversation naturally, allowing you to introduce them to craft beers that align with their tastes.
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Share Experiences: When appropriate, share a story about a craft beer tasting you attended or a local brewery you enjoy. Relating your experiences can engage their interest without sounding like a lecture.
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Introduce Gradually: Consider presenting craft beer as an adventure, rather than a replacement. Offer them a tasting flight with a mix of styles, framing it as a fun way to explore new flavors together.
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Avoid Beer Jargon: Skip the technical terms if they tend to lose your friends. Focus instead on describing flavors in relatable terms—“This has a hint of citrus and a smooth finish,” can be much more enticing than detailing the brewing process.
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Lead by Example: Sometimes the best way to communicate your passion is to model the behavior. Enjoy your craft beer openly, share why it brings you joy, and