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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
- 57/m: Love beer, but it doesn’t love me as much anymore
- No Stupid Questions Wednesday – ask anything about beer
- Does anyone else get treated like a beer snob for ordering literally anything that isn’t a macro lager?
- Is there a polite way to refuse a beer that’s being served in the wrong glassware without making everyone at the table uncomfortable?
- # What’s the most pretentious thing you’ve ever said about beer that you secretly didn’t understand yourself?
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Bridging the Gap: Craft Beer vs. Traditional Beer
Navigating the world of beer can often feel like a journey into two distinct realms: traditional beer and the vibrant landscape of craft beer. Many enthusiasts find themselves in a familiar situation when trying to engage friends who prefer mass-produced lagers and ales. How do you discuss the nuances of beer without coming across as a snob?
Understanding the Divide
Recently, I faced a familiar dilemma with my friends. When it’s time to unwind, they often suggest, “Let’s grab a beer,” only to show up with a 30-pack of the cheapest brew they could find. At dinner, their choice of simply ordering “a beer” suggests a one-size-fits-all approach to a beverage with infinite variety. It’s hard not to feel a pang of disappointment when you’ve brought along a carefully curated selection of craft beers, only to watch everyone take a token sip before returning to their familiar choices.
The Challenge of Communication
When I attempt to share my fascination with the finer details of brewing, such as the art of hop selection or the characteristics of a Belgian tripel, it’s clear that my friends mentally switch off. It’s as if I’ve activated an invisible switch that signals “gear up for a lecture on craft beer!” They seem comfortable entrenched in their habits, unaware of the vast spectrum of flavors available in the world of beer.
Finding Common Ground
So, how can one convey the beauty of craft beer to friends who might not share the same enthusiasm? Here are some effective strategies:
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Share the Experience: Instead of lecturing, invite your friends to join you for a tasting. Lay out a variety of craft beers and encourage them to explore the flavors together. A shared experience can foster appreciation without feeling pretentious.
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Ask Questions: Instead of making comparisons or critiques, ask them what they enjoy about their go-to beers. This opens up a dialogue rather than creates a one-sided conversation.
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Use Relatable Analogies: Compare craft beer to something they already love, like gourmet food. Just as there’s a world of difference between fast food and a meticulously prepared meal, the same applies to beer.
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Be Patient: Remember that everyone has their preferences, and it’s okay not to convert them. Focus on enjoying your beer journey while respecting theirs.
Conclusion
In the end, it’s about creating a space for appreciation—both for craft beer