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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 feel guilty drinking beer alone because it’s supposed to be a social experience?
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Bridging the Gap: How to Discuss the Difference Between Beer and Craft Beer with Friends
In the landscape of brewing, the terms “beer” and “craft beer” are as distinct as night and day, yet communicating this difference to friends can be a tricky endeavor. If you’ve found yourself in a similar situation, you know how frustrating it can be when your friends show little interest in exploring the rich world of craft beer.
Imagine this scenario: you’re out with your friends and they casually suggest grabbing “beer.” A few moments later, they show up with a discounted 30-pack of the cheapest option available. Or, during a meal, one of them casually points to the menu and requests a “beer,” assuming there’s only one kind to choose from.
In these moments, you might feel a mix of exasperation and confusion, especially if you’ve brought along a selection of fine craft beer to share. Watching your friends take a token sip before returning to their usual choices of mainstream lagers can be disheartening.
As soon as you mention anything related to brewing techniques or specific flavors—like hops or malts—you can almost see the glazed look in their eyes. It’s as if mentioning your knowledge of craft beer activates a ‘defense mechanism’ against what they perceive as a lecture on the subject. This response can make you reluctant to broach the topic again.
So, how do you convey the beauty of craft beer without sounding condescending? Here are some suggestions:
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Start with a Tasting: Organize a low-pressure tasting session where everyone can sample different styles side by side. Sometimes, experiencing the variety firsthand can spark interest and appreciation.
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Keep It Simple: Instead of diving into complex jargon, talk about flavors in terms everyone understands. Describe a craft beer’s taste using common references—think of well-known foods or drinks.
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Share Stories: People often connect with experiences more than facts. Share a personal story about a specific craft beer moment that brought you joy. This can evoke curiosity rather than defensiveness.
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Find Common Ground: If your friends have a favorite lager or ale, suggest craft beers that have similar qualities but with more depth. This makes the transition feel less overwhelming.
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Be Patient: Remember that changing someone’s beer outlook takes time. Celebrate small victories, like someone expressing curiosity about a particular style.
Ultimately, it’s about making the conversation enjoyable