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Steven Coulson
Steven has been drinking beers, wines and spirits for decades and has a propensity to go about them at length after a few drinks.
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Title: Embracing Craft Beer: Navigating the Snob Stereotype
When it comes to enjoying a refreshing beverage, many of us have particular tastes that set us apart from the mainstream. Recently, I found myself in a familiar yet frustrating scenario: ordering a craft beer at dinner only to be met with reactions suggesting I was a pretentious snob for simply wanting something flavorful.
During a dinner outing with colleagues, I confidently requested the house IPA, anticipating a delightful experience. However, my choice was swiftly met with remarks implying that I was indulging in some sort of highbrow affair. One coworker, with a dismissive tone, remarked on how he preferred “normal beer” devoid of any complex flavors, and then went on to order a Stella, believing its imported label somehow elevated it above the local craft options.
In that moment, I found myself trying to clarify that hops aren’t an exotic ingredient but rather a fundamental part of a well-crafted beer. To my dismay, my explanation seemed futile against the notion that anything beyond a macro lager equated to snobbery. It was particularly ironic that my colleague was opting for a “premium European lager” whose taste, frankly, wasn’t much different from the popular mass-produced beers—yet he was willing to pay a premium for the label.
This experience left me pondering: how do we navigate such conversations without coming off as a beer elitist? I merely sought a beverage with genuine flavor, not to assert myself as a connoisseur. Yet in the eyes of some, choosing an IPA or venturing beyond popular lagers renders you part of a niche that’s often misunderstood.
Does this resonate with anyone else? Have you found yourself in heated discussions about your beer preferences alongside individuals who view a lime in Corona as the pinnacle of exotic flavor? It’s time we embrace our tastes and educate others, fostering an appreciation for the variety and nuances of craft beer rather than retreating into silence at the table.
So, let’s raise a glass to those of us who enjoy exploring flavor profiles—may we continue to relish our craft selections without hesitation! Cheers!