The Misunderstood World of Craft Beer: Navigating Bias and Preferences

Have you ever found yourself in a social setting, simply wanting to enjoy a flavorful drink, only to be met with unexpected judgment for not sticking to the mainstream choices? This experience is common among craft beer enthusiasts, and it raises an interesting discussion about perceptions of beer preferences.

Recently, while dining out with colleagues, I opted for the house IPA, a decision that triggered a series of condescending remarks. The server, perhaps taken aback by my choice, seemed to signal a wave of surprise that I wasn’t choosing a standard macro lager. Almost instantly, one coworker remarked on how I “must really be into that craft beer scene.” It felt as though I had placed an elaborate wine order to complement my meal, rather than just selecting a different style of beer.

One colleague’s response was particularly intriguing. He smugly proclaimed his preference for “normal beer that tastes like beer,” quickly choosing a Stella as though its import status validated his taste. In his mind, the notion of enjoying a locally crafted IPA was tantamount to snobbery. Here I was, trying to clarify that the nuances of hops are not some rarefied secret ingredient, while he remained steadfast in the belief that anything outside of popular brands like Bud Light was an attempt to elevate oneself above the ordinary drinker.

Contrary to his assumptions, my choice was driven by a simple desire for something with character and taste—hence the IPA. Ironically, he ended up paying a higher price for what he considered a “premium European lager,” which ultimately bore a striking resemblance to his beloved Budweiser, complete with a hint of corn syrup.

This interaction compelled me to wonder: how can one engage in these conversations without coming off as a beer elitist? It’s unfortunate that simply ordering a craft beer can elicit a backlash of stereotypes, branding individuals as pretentious for seeking out flavors beyond the familiar. I find myself often defending my tastes against those who view something as ordinary as Corona with lime as the pinnacle of exotic.

Craft beer should be celebrated for its diversity and creativity, not dismissed as a mark of pretentiousness. It’s about exploring flavors and enjoying the artistry behind brewing. Have you had similar experiences of defending your beer selections? Let’s embrace our preferences and foster discussions that elevate our appreciation for all beer, whether it’s a crisp lager or a robust IPA. After all, the richness of the craft beer culture deserves