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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
- What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a single beer and was it worth it?
- What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a single beer and was it worth it?
- What’s your favourite thing to do while drinking alone?
- What’s the best way to explain to my friends that there’s a difference between ‘beer’ and ‘craft beer’ without sounding pretentious?
- What’s your favourite thing to do while drinking alone?
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Bridging the Gap: How to Discuss the Difference Between Beer and Craft Beer with Friends
We’ve all been there—out with friends who simply don’t realize that the world of beer extends far beyond the basics of mainstream brands. Imagine sitting down for dinner and hearing someone nonchalantly declare, “I’ll just have a beer,” without considering the rich variety available. If you’ve faced the challenge of explaining the nuances between regular beer and craft beer without coming across as pretentious, you’re not alone!
Understanding the Beer Divide
Many friends might not grasp that there’s a significant distinction between a typical lager purchased in bulk and the carefully crafted styles of beer brewed with passion. You might find your pals arriving with a case of generic suds, leaving craft beer enthusiasts variously amused or frustrated. After all, sipping a quality Belgian tripel next to a can of light lager can feel like an unsatisfactory culinary mismatch.
Sharing Knowledge Without Judgment
It’s easy to feel exasperated when the topic arises. Perhaps you recently tried to share an intriguing craft beer selection during your latest get-together, only to witness your friends indulging in their usual, mass-produced favorites after just a polite sip. When you attempt to discuss the crafting process, hops, or unique flavors, it’s disheartening to see your friends mentally switch to “let’s change the topic” mode.
So, what can you do?
Tips for Engaging Conversations on Beer
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Lead by Example: Instead of launching into a detailed explanation, share your experiences with different flavors in a casual manner. You might say, “I discovered this amazing IPA that tastes like citrus; it’s a game changer!” This invites a dialogue without sounding like a lecture.
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Find Common Ground: Ask your friends what they typically enjoy in a beer. Do they prefer something hoppy or smooth? Use their preferences as a bridge to introduce similar craft options that offer richer flavors.
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Plan Tastings: Organize an informal beer tasting at your next hangout. Present a few different styles side by side. This way, everyone can discover the differences themselves in a fun, interactive way.
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Respect Their Choices: Acknowledge that everyone has different tastes. Craft beer might not appeal to them right away, and that’s okay! It’s important to maintain a friendly tone and avoid coming off as elitist.