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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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Understanding the Craft: Communicating the Difference Between Beer and Craft Beer
Have you ever found yourself at a gathering when the conversation turns to beverages, and your friends casually toss out the term “beer” as if it refers to just one singular option? You’re not alone. Many enthusiasts face the challenge of articulating the distinction between standard beer and craft beer without coming across as pretentious.
Picture this: you’re at a friend’s place, and they suggest ordering beer. When the typical 30-rack of a budget brand shows up, you can’t help but feel a twinge of disappointment. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a laid-back hangout, the menu often features a dive-bar approach—where options can seem incredibly limited. You’ve brought along a selection of quality craft beers, only to witness your friends take a single sip before returning to their usual fare.
When you touch on topics like hops or the brewing process, it’s as if you’ve triggered an internal defense mechanism in your friends. Their eyes glaze over, and you can almost hear their thoughts: “Not another craft beer lecture.”
So how do you convey the rich diversity of flavors and brewing artistry found in craft beer without sounding elitist? Here are a few tips that might help:
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Start with Curiosity: Instead of lecturing, ask your friends what they enjoy about their usual choices. This opens a dialogue rather than shutting it down.
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Share the Experience: Offer samples of craft beers and encourage a tasting session. Highlight the interesting aspects of each one, like flavor notes or brewing techniques, without overwhelming them with details.
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Connect to Familiar Flavors: Relate craft beer flavors to foods or drinks your friends already enjoy. This creates a bridge between their preferences and the craft beer world.
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Be Respectful and Inclusive: Acknowledge that everyone has different tastes. It’s perfectly fine to enjoy a light lager and a foamy stout without hierarchy.
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Lead with Enthusiasm, Not Elitism: Share your passion for craft beer in a way that’s contagious. When your excitement shines through, it’s less about “craft beer vs. regular beer” and more about enjoying a quality experience together.
Navigating the discussion of beer types can be tricky, but with a bit of tact and creativity, you can help your friends appreciate the nuanced world of craft beer. So, the next time you’re