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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
- Dissecting The Beer Menu – An Irish Pub & Layered Brews
- Has anyone else noticed that every “limited release” somehow stays on shelves for months?
- Dissecting The Beer Menu – An Irish Pub & Layered Brews
- Headed to Asheville – looking for top breweries to get German style in cans / bottles
- Does anyone else feel guilty drinking beer alone because it’s supposed to be a social experience?
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Bridging the Divide: How to Explain the Difference Between Beer and Craft Beer Without Sounding Pretentious
When it comes to enjoying a drink with friends, there’s often a divide—especially when it involves beer. Recently, I found myself in a situation where my friends casually suggested, “Let’s grab some beer.” To my dismay, they rolled in with a budget 30-pack of the cheapest options. It was surprising to observe their lack of awareness towards the diverse world of craft beer.
At a recent gathering, I decided to introduce some quality craft brews. After enthusiastically sharing my selections, I noticed everyone took a single polite sip before swiftly returning to their familiar comfort zone of light, mass-produced beer. It was as if the appeal of hoppy aromas and complex flavors vanished as soon as the topic of craft beer emerged. The moment I mentioned anything brewing-related, I could see their eyes glaze over, mentally retreating from what they interpreted as a “craft beer lecture.”
I can’t help but wonder: am I expected to treat Miller High Life and a well-crafted Belgian tripel as equals? The vast universe of beer flavors and styles feels neglected by those who remain content with bland, easy-drinking options. Am I the only one grappling with this dilemma?
If you’ve ever found yourself struggling to convey the nuances of beer culture to friends who aren’t as enthusiastic, you’re not alone. Here are a few strategies I’ve found useful in making this conversation more approachable and enjoyable:
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Focus on Flavor: Instead of delving into technical brewing terminology, talk about the flavors you enjoy. Share your personal experiences with different beers – describe how they tasted and what food they paired well with. Personal stories can make the subject more relatable and engaging.
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Invite Exploration: Organize a tasting session where everyone can sample a variety of beers. This creates a fun atmosphere without the pressure of being knowledgeable. Encourage your friends to express what they like or dislike about each one.
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Keep it Light: Avoid jargon or overly technical discussions. If someone asks about hops, keep your answer brief and focused on what they contribute to flavor, rather than the intricate details of the brewing process.
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Celebrate Common Grounds: Acknowledge that there’s value in what your friends enjoy. Discussing how brewery styles differ can be a good entry point without dismissing their preferences. Bridging the gap allows for a more productive conversation about why