Embracing Craft Beer: Navigating Conversations with Non-Connoisseurs

As a craft beer enthusiast, have you ever felt the sting of being labeled a snob simply for ordering a brew that isn’t a mainstream lager? This experience resonates with many who appreciate the nuanced flavors and creativity behind craft brewing.

Recently, I enjoyed dinner with colleagues when the topic of beverages arose. I confidently ordered the house IPA, anticipating a flavorful experience. Instead, I was met with a bewildering response—my fellow diners treated my choice as though it was akin to selecting an extravagant wine to complement my meal. One colleague even remarked, “Wow, you’re really into that craft beer stuff,” as if my affinity for hops and unique flavors made me a connoisseur of the unapproachable variety.

Amidst the good-natured ribbing, one individual proudly declared that he preferred “standard” beers and opted for a Stella Artois, proudly branding it as an “imported” option. This prompted a sea of confusion as he claimed that anything beyond a classic lager felt unnecessarily extravagant. I found myself in the unusual position of having to justify the very essence of craft beer. Hops, as I tried to explain, are not some esoteric addition but rather the backbone of diverse and exciting beer profiles.

What struck me as ironic was watching him pay a premium for a lager that, while “imported,” bore an uncanny resemblance to heavy American light lagers in flavor—complete with that questionable corn syrup finish. Meanwhile, I was merely trying to savor a drink that promised genuine flavor.

So how does one navigate these discussions without coming off as a pompous beer aficionado? It’s no easy task. The truth is, I didn’t intend to make a statement with my IPA choice; I simply craved something with depth and character. Yet, it seems that opting for anything outside of conventional lagers can pigeonhole you into the stereotype of a “craft beer enthusiast,” complete with labels likening your choice to tasting “Pine Sol and clementine peels.”

Have you found yourself in similar conversations where you felt compelled to defend your beer preferences to those who consider a Corona with lime to be avant-garde? How do you shift the narrative in favor of celebrating the diversity of craft beer without alienating those who prefer the familiar comforts of their go-to macro brews? Share your experiences and tips below!