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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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- 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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Navigating the Craft Beer Conversation: Bridging the Gap without Pretense
When it comes to enjoying a cold one with friends, you may have noticed a common misconception that all beers are created equal. This often leads to casual outings where the term “beer” is used interchangeably with inexpensive, mass-produced options. If you’ve ever found yourself in a situation where your friends opt for a generic thirty-pack while you’re excited to share a carefully crafted brew, you’re not alone.
Understanding the Divide
It can be challenging to discuss the distinction between “beer” and “craft beer” without coming off as snobby. Your friends may simply see it as a drink, but for many enthusiasts, craft beer represents a vast world of flavor, complexity, and artisanal craftsmanship. The struggle lies in finding a way to express your appreciation for craft beer without alienating those who prefer conventional options.
The Frustration of the “One-Size-Fits-All” Mentality
It’s not uncommon to order a simple “beer” at a social gathering, but this can inadvertently undermine the rich variety the beer industry offers. Picture this: you bring a selection of unique brews to a get-together, only to see friends take a tentative sip before reverting to familiar favorites that they can easily label as “beer.” It’s as if discussing the nuances of hops and brewing suddenly triggers a mental retreat—an all-too-familiar scene for many craft beer aficionados.
Finding Common Ground
So how do you communicate the value of craft beer without sounding elitist? Here are some strategies:
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Start with Shared Experiences: Rather than diving straight into the technical aspects, begin by highlighting enjoyable moments you’ve had with different beers. Share a fun story about a particular brew or the experience of visiting a local brewery. This approach personalizes the conversation and frames it in an engaging context.
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Introduce Tasting Tours: Offering to organize a tasting event can be a gentle way to introduce your friends to craft beer. Sample flights allow everyone to explore a range of flavors without the pressure to commit to something unfamiliar.
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Educate Through Flavor: Instead of discussing hops and bitterness, focus on flavor profiles. Ask your friends to describe what they enjoy in a beverage and suggest craft options that align with their preferences.
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Be Respectful of Preferences: Acknowledge that everyone has their likes and dislikes. While you might enjoy a Belgian trip