The Craft Beer Dilemma: Navigating Conversations About Beer Preferences

Have you ever felt the sting of being labeled a “beer snob” just for opting for something other than a mainstream lager? I certainly have.

Recently, I went out for dinner with a few coworkers, and when the server approached to take drink orders, I decided to try the house IPA. Little did I know, this simple choice would spark a discussion fraught with skepticism and misunderstanding. Almost immediately, I was met with comments implying that my preference for craft beer was some sort of pretentious statement. One coworker even exclaimed that he didn’t need “all those fancy flavors” and immediately ordered a Stella Artois, believing its imported status somehow elevated his choice above mine.

As I attempted to explain that the bitterness and floral notes of hops are not some bizarre ingredient but a natural component of brewing, my coworker seemed firm in his conviction: any beer that isn’t a macro lager is simply pretentious. It struck me as ironic that he was willing to pay a premium for his “imported” lager, which tasted remarkably similar to a mass-produced, corn syrup-laden beer.

How do we navigate these conversations without coming off as arrogant or condescending? I certainly didn’t set out to make a statement; I was merely seeking a beverage with depth and flavor. Yet, it seems that in certain circles, ordering an IPA or, heaven forbid, a stout can paint you as a member of the “craft beer elite.”

I find myself pondering: is it too much to ask for a flavorful beer without facing judgment? It’s bewildering when the same individuals who view a simple Corona with lime as exotic reserve their critiques for choices that veer towards the craft beer realm.

So, if you’ve ever found yourself defending your beer preferences against friends or coworkers who view anything outside of the macro lagers as niche or exotic, know that you’re not alone. Let’s champion the craft beer movement tastefully and help bridge the gap between the casual drinker and the craft enthusiast. After all, enjoying a robust IPA shouldn’t come with a side of ridicule—it should be celebrated as part of the diverse and rich tapestry of beer culture.