Navigating the Craft Beer Conversation: From Casual Drinks to Craft Enthusiasts

If you’ve ever found yourself ordering a craft beer at a restaurant only to be met with raised eyebrows and comments about being a “beer snob,” you’re not alone. Recently, while out to dinner with some coworkers, I opted for the house IPA, anticipating a refreshing, hoppy experience. Instead, what followed was a rather uncomfortable discussion about beer preferences.

As soon as I placed my order, I sensed the judgment in the room. “Wow, you’re really into that craft beer stuff,” one coworker remarked, as if I had just ordered an extravagant wine pairing for my meal. Another chimed in, insisting he preferred “normal beer that tastes like beer,” while he proceeded to order a Stella, supposedly elevating his choice because of its imported status.

What struck me was the irony. Here we were, having a casual dinner, and yet, the notion that appreciating diverse flavors in beer came off as pretentious was disheartening. I found myself trying to explain that hops are simply a key ingredient, not some exotic additive meant to elevate my beverage above theirs. Meanwhile, my coworker was happily sipping a “premium European lager” that shared more similarities with a mass-produced beer than he likely realized.

Navigating these conversations can be tricky. I genuinely enjoy exploring different flavors and styles in craft beer; it’s not about trying to make a statement. So how do you discuss your preferences without being labeled a beer snob?

It’s important to approach these discussions with humility and understanding. Many people enjoy their classic beers and are comfortable with them, and that’s perfectly valid. Perhaps, when faced with skepticism, sharing your excitement about the complexities of craft beer could be the way forward. After all, appreciating flavors doesn’t diminish anyone else’s choice—it merely highlights the rich landscape of options available.

So, for those who find themselves defending their love for craft beer against friends who think a Coronarita is adventurous, remember: it’s okay to enjoy what you love passionately. Whether it’s a local IPA or a classic lager, what matters most is that we respect each other’s choices—cheers to that!