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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.
Latest Posts
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- # What’s the most pretentious thing you’ve ever said about beer that you secretly didn’t understand yourself?
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Title: The Art of Communicating Craft Beer: Finding Common Ground with Friends
When it comes to enjoying a good drink, there’s a noticeable distinction between ‘beer’ and ‘craft beer’ that merits discussion, especially among friends who may not appreciate the nuances. If you find yourself in a similar situation—where your pals opt for the ubiquitous 30-pack of light beer while you’re eager to explore the rich array of craft options—it’s important to bridge that gap without coming across as condescending.
Understanding Your Audience
Picture this: you’re at a gathering, and your friends casually declare, “Let’s grab some beer,” before showing up with a cheap, mass-produced case. Or during dinner, someone simply points at the menu and orders “a beer” as if it’s the only option available. It can be disheartening, particularly if you’ve brought a more select brew to share, only to watch it sit largely untasted while everyone reaches for their familiar light lagers.
Navigating the Conversation
The moment you bring up the intricacies of brewing—discussing hops, flavors, or even the merits of beer styles—it’s common for people to tune out, their eyes glazing over as they brace for what they perceive as a “craft beer lecture.” So how do you address this divide without coming off as pretentious?
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Lead by Example: Instead of starting with a lecture, share your enthusiasm for craft beer through your experiences. Offer a tasting session where everyone can explore different flavors in a relaxed setting. This will create an opportunity for them to appreciate what craft beer has to offer.
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Focus on Flavor: When discussing craft beer, aim to describe the taste and aroma in relatable terms. People connect with flavor, and discussing how certain beers can enhance a meal or evoke memories can resonate more profoundly than delving into technical jargon.
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Promote Inclusivity: Encourage trying new beers together rather than putting down their choices. You might say, “I have a great craft beer that pairs wonderfully with this meal—would you mind giving it a shot?” This invites them into the experience without making them feel judged.
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Be Patient: Remember that tastes can take time to develop. Your friends may not appreciate craft beer immediately, but with patience and encouragement, their palates might evolve over time.
Finding Common Ground
Ultimately, the goal is not to disparage lighter beers but to share a passion for the