haveigotboozeforyou.com

Navigating the Craft Beer Conundrum: Am I a Snob for Enjoying Flavor?

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where simply ordering a craft beer turns into a curious spectacle? Recently, while dining out with colleagues, I reached for the house IPA, expecting a straightforward choice—a refreshing pint with robust flavors. Instead, I was met with raised eyebrows and snickers as if I had just proclaimed my allegiance to a rare vintage wine.

One of my colleagues felt compelled to comment, remarking on how he preferred a “normal beer that tastes like beer.” His choice? A Stella Artois. It’s baffling to see someone dismiss the intricate flavors of craft beer only to opt for a branded lager as their definition of sophistication. In that moment, I found myself in an amusingly absurd conversation about beer—one where I was branded as a “craft beer snob” simply for wanting more depth in my drink.

This led to a bit of a back-and-forth, with me attempting to clarify the beauty of hops and the artistry behind local breweries. To my astonishment, he remained convinced that anything beyond the realms of Bud Light marked one as pretentious. Ironically, he was paying a premium for a European lager that, in many respects, tasted very much like its American counterparts with a hint of corn syrup.

It begs the question: how do we engage in these discussions without being seen as elitist? For me, it was never about making a grand statement; I merely sought a beverage that was flavorful. Yet, enjoying an IPA seems to place you firmly in the camp of “those who appreciate the taste of Pine Sol and clementine peels,” as a fellow diner quipped.

Have you, too, found yourself defending your beer choices against those who consider a beer with a lime slice as the pinnacle of exoticism? Let’s explore how to express our preferences respectfully without alienating anyone and celebrate the ever-growing world of craft beer together!