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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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The Art of Pretentious Beer Talk: Confessions from a Craft Beer Enthusiast
As enthusiasts of craft beer, we often find ourselves in situations where our passion for the beverage runs headlong into the world of technical jargon. A recent bottle share exemplified this phenomenon perfectly, leaving me to reflect on the pretentious things we sometimes say about beer—often without a firm grasp of their true meaning.
At this particular gathering, a barrel-aged sour was opened, and I felt compelled to impress my fellow beer aficionados. Seized by a wave of confidence, I declared my “appreciation for the characteristic brett interacting with the oak tannins to create some beautiful phenolic compounds.” The problem? I had no real understanding of what phenolic compounds are—I had merely recycled a blend of wine terminology and vague memories from a brewing podcast I once listened to.
Much to my surprise, my companions nodded approvingly, as if I had unveiled a profound truth. Encouraged by their reception, I threw in a reference to the beer’s ability to “express local terroir through indigenous microflora.” It wasn’t until later that I realized the absurdity of my contributions.
More recently, I was caught using the term “mouthfeel complexity” to describe a beer that was simply thick in texture. In truth, I was engaging in what could best be described as craft beer mad libs; stringing together words I’ve heard before in an attempt to sound knowledgeable.
I can’t help but wonder if many of us experience this same anxiety. Are we all just echoing phrases we’ve spawned from others, wishing to avoid being challenged for our lack of understanding? If you’ve ever found yourself in similar shoes, know you’re not alone. The world of craft beer can be as intimidating as it is delightful, and it often blurs the line between genuine appreciation and pretentious jargon.
So, the next time you find yourself at a beer gathering, perhaps embrace simplicity over complexity. After all, enjoying a good brew doesn’t have to come with a side of pretentiousness! What are your experiences with beer lingo? Share your thoughts below!