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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: Educating Friends on the Difference Between Beer and Craft Beer
Navigating the world of beer can often feel like walking a tightrope, especially when your friends are content with their go-to choices. If you’ve found yourself in the situation where your social circle doesn’t quite grasp the distinction between regular beer and craft beer, you’re not alone. Here’s how to approach this conversation without sounding snobbish or aloof.
It can be a bit disheartening when your friends suggest grabbing some “beer,” only to show up with a budget case that costs less than your average pizza. The dining experience can take a turn when they glance at the menu and casually order “a beer,” treating it as if it’s a singular option. Just recently, at a gathering, I decided to share some quality craft brews, only to watch my companions take a single polite sip before reverting back to their default choices.
Interestingly, as soon as I try to dive into the intricacies of beer, discussing elements like hops and the brewing process, I notice their eyes gloss over. It’s as if I’ve triggered an internal alarm that screams, “Oh no, here comes the craft beer lecture!”
This begs the question: Should I really suppress the vast landscape of flavors that craft beer offers just to fit in with their preferences? The differentiation between a light lager and a rich Belgian tripel is monumental! Yet, finding the right way to share that appreciation is crucial, so as to invite rather than alienate.
If you’re in a similar boat, here are a few tips to consider for engaging your friends in a more appealing way:
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Start with Stories: Instead of diving into technical details, share interesting anecdotes or fun facts related to different beer styles. This can pique their curiosity without overwhelming them.
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Tastings as a Social Event: Organize a casual beer tasting evening where everyone brings their favorite brew (regardless of style). This way, you can casually discuss the nuances of different beers while keeping the environment fun and relaxed.
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Be Relatable: Use comparisons to provide context. Mention how a certain craft beer pairs beautifully with specific foods, similar to how some might prefer wine. This can make the topic more approachable.
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Invite Participation: Encourage your friends to participate in the conversation by asking them what they enjoy about their current favorites. This shifts the focus to sharing experiences rather than a one-sided