The Art of Craft Beer Conversation: Are We Just Speaking in Codes?

Craft beer culture has become a rich tapestry of flavors, aromas, and intricate language. However, it often raises a question: How much of what we say about beer do we truly understand? After attending a bottle share event over the weekend, I found myself in a situation that perfectly illustrates this point.

As I tasted a barrel-aged sour, I felt the urge to impress my fellow enthusiasts with my knowledge. I confidently proclaimed my appreciation for how the “characteristic brett interacted with the oak tannins to create some beautiful phenolic compounds.” Now, let’s be real—I have no clue what phenolic compounds are. I think I unconsciously melded some wine jargon with remnants of a brewing podcast I had listened to in the past.

To my surprise, everyone nodded in agreement, as if I had unlocked the secrets of the universe. Emboldened by their apparent validation, I continued on with yet another phrase that cryptically hinted at expertise: “this beer expresses local terroir through indigenous microflora.” What was I even saying?

If that wasn’t enough, just last month, I found myself commenting on a beer’s “mouthfeel complexity,” when I really meant to convey that it simply tasted thick. It dawned on me that I was engaging in what could only be described as craft beer mad libs—filling in the blanks with grand terminology that often bears little substance.

The truth is, I believe many of us in the craft beer community occasionally parrot phrases we’ve picked up from others, secretly hoping no one will call us out on our lack of understanding. Are we all dancing around this elaborate lexicon, or is there a genuine appreciation driving our verbose descriptions?

So, fellow beer lovers: do you ever find yourself caught in this web of pretentious terminology? Share your experiences below; let’s navigate this intricate conversation together and perhaps demystify the wonderful world of craft beer!