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Navigating Beer Preferences: Defending Your Craft Choices

Have you ever found yourself in a social setting where simply ordering a craft beer makes you feel like a pretentious snob? Recently, I experienced just this during a dinner outing with colleagues. As the server approached the table to take drink orders, I opted for the house IPA, anticipating a flavorful evening ahead. Little did I know, this choice would spark a lively debate about beer preferences.

Immediate reactions ensued, with one of my coworkers declaring, “Wow, you’re really into that craft beer stuff!” It felt as if I had just announced my intention to pair a fine wine with my chicken sandwich. Another colleague voiced his thoughts, lamenting how he didn’t require “all those fancy flavors.” He proudly ordered a Stella, which he considered a sophisticated choice due to its “imported” label. Ironically, this beer, while touted as premium, seemed to lack the character found in a locally crafted IPA.

As the conversation turned, I found myself attempting to clarify that hops are not strange additives and that enjoying a well-balanced beer doesn’t make one a snob. It was evident that some perceive anything outside of mainstream lagers, like Bud Light, as excessively pretentious. The irony was not lost on me: my coworker was willing to shell out a couple of extra dollars for a beer that ultimately tasted similar to a mass-produced lager he claims to dislike.

How do you navigate conversations like these without being labeled as a snob? For me, it was all about explaining that I simply appreciate the depth of craft beers, which often offer a world of flavors, unlike some of the more common options. Yet, it seems that for many, even a simple order such as an IPA can tag you as a member of an exclusive “craft beer club,” complete with snarky remarks about flavors reminiscent of cleaning products.

Have you had similar experiences? Do you find yourself defending your choice of a flavorful IPA when others feel that drinking anything but macro lagers is a departure from the norm? If you’ve faced the dubious title of “beer snob” for simply wanting something with character, you’re certainly not alone. It’s essential to stand firm in your preferences and continue to explore the rich variety of beers available, regardless of others’ opinions. After all, vibrant flavors and unique brews are what make the world of craft beer so exciting!