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Navigating the Craft Beer Conundrum: Why Do We Feel Judged for Our Choices?

As a passionate beer enthusiast, it’s not uncommon to feel a bit out of place when sharing one’s drink preferences, especially in a world dominated by macro lagers. Recently, I had a dinner outing with a few colleagues, and what should have been a straightforward decision quickly turned into an awkward moment. When the server inquired about my beverage choice, I opted for the house IPA, only to be met with a reaction I’ve come to recognize all too well.

“Wow, you’re really into that craft beer scene,” one of my coworkers exclaimed, as if my choice somehow elevated me to an elite status of beer snobbery. This was followed by a diatribe from another colleague, who dismissed all things craft, claiming he preferred “normal beer that tastes like beer.” His choice? A Stella Artois – touted as “imported” and, in his mind, therefore more refined than my local IPA.

Now, don’t get me wrong. I respect everyone’s right to enjoy their preferred brews, but I found it troubling that my simple choice for a flavorful beer was met with such disdain. It was as if I had committed a culinary crime merely by ordering something beyond a mainstream lager. As I attempted to explain the intricacies of hops—not to mention the art of brewing—my coworker remained adamant, convinced that anything outside the realm of Bud Light was simply pretentious.

What struck me most was the irony of the situation. Here we had a discussion about beer, where my colleague opted for a “premium European lager” that essentially resembled a heavily processed alternative, yet I was painted as the one with questionable taste.

This experience left me pondering: how does one navigate discussions about beer preferences without coming off as a snob? Is it possible to enjoy craft beer and have a passion for its depth without being labeled? The irony is that ordering an IPA shouldn’t equate to adopting an air of superiority; it’s merely an appreciation for flavor.

Has anyone else found themselves in similar discussions, defending their choices to those who view a Corona with lime as the epitome of exotic? In a world rich with diverse flavors and brewing techniques, let’s celebrate our differences and indulge in the joy of beer—whatever our preferences may be.

As you share your own stories, remember: it’s not about the label on the bottle, but the enjoyment it