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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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Understanding the Craft: Navigating the Conversation Between Beer and Craft Beer
It’s a familiar scenario for many enthusiasts: gathering with friends and hearing the all-too-common phrase, “Let’s get beer,” only to witness the arrival of a 30-pack of budget lager. As someone who appreciates the finer nuances of brewing, it can be challenging to convey the distinction between traditional beer and craft beer without coming across as pretentious.
Imagine this: you’re at dinner, and a friend casually points to the drink menu and declares, “I’ll have a beer,” as if one option suffices for all types of beer lovers. You bring along a selection of high-quality craft beers, eager to share your passion, only to see your friends take a polite sip before reverting to their favorite mass-produced brands. It’s disheartening to witness a lack of enthusiasm for the rich tapestry of flavors that craft beer offers.
The moment you start discussing brewing techniques or the significance of hop varieties, you can almost feel your friends mentally disengaging. It’s like flipping a switch that triggers their “oh no, here comes the beer lecture” response. How do you navigate these interactions without sounding condescending?
The truth is, we need to recognize and respect that everyone has different tastes and preferences. Instead of framing the conversation as a lesson about the intricacies of craft beer, consider introducing it more as an exploration. Invite friends to try a flight of various beers and encourage them to share their thoughts on what they like or dislike about each. This approach can create a more inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable discussing their preferences.
You might start by saying, “I’ve found some interesting beers that I think might surprise you!” This way, you’re positioned as someone sharing a discovery rather than an authority delivering a sermon.
In the end, it’s essential to strike a balance between sharing your passion and respecting your friends’ choices. There’s a vast world of flavors waiting to be explored, and it’s always more enjoyable when you can share that journey with others—without the fear of sounding pretentious.
Have you faced similar hurdles in discussing your love for craft beer? Share your experiences and tips for making those conversations engaging and enjoyable!