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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
- 57/m: Love beer, but it doesn’t love me as much anymore
- No Stupid Questions Wednesday – ask anything about beer
- Does anyone else get treated like a beer snob for ordering literally anything that isn’t a macro lager?
- Is there a polite way to refuse a beer that’s being served in the wrong glassware without making everyone at the table uncomfortable?
- # What’s the most pretentious thing you’ve ever said about beer that you secretly didn’t understand yourself?
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Bridging the Gap: Explaining the Difference Between Beer and Craft Beer to Friends
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you want to discuss the intricate world of craft beer, only to be met with confusion or disinterest from your friends? If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, you may have experienced the same frustration when your friends casually refer to all beer as simply “beer.”
Recently, I faced a dilemma. Whenever my friends suggest getting “a beer,” they usually show up with a budget-friendly case of their go-to selection, oblivious to the rich tapestry of flavors that craft beer has to offer. At dinner, when they glance at the menu and order just “a beer” as though it were the only option available, I can’t help but feel a pang of frustration.
At a recent gathering, I decided to introduce some quality craft beers into the mix, hoping to expand their palate. However, I quickly noticed that their enthusiasm waned after just one cautious sip—before they swiftly reverted back to their trusty staples. The moment I started discussing hops, brewing techniques, or beer styles, they seemed to mentally check out, as if my words unleashed their inner defense against what they perceived as a pretentious lecture.
So what’s the solution? How can I convey that there is a world of difference between a mass-produced lager and a meticulously brewed Belgian tripel without coming off as snobbish?
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Start with Curiosity, Not Critique: Instead of pointing out how their beer of choice falls short, engage them with enthusiasm. Ask about their preferences and introduce them to craft beer in a way that feels inclusive. For instance, try saying, “If you enjoy that flavor, you might like this craft beer that has a similar profile, but with some exciting twists!”
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Share the Experience: Create a beer tasting event where everyone can sample different styles. This way, friends can experience the differences for themselves without feeling overwhelmed by jargon or expertise.
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Focus on Flavor: Instead of discussing brewing techniques, describe flavors and aromas. Talk about tasting notes like citrus, caramel, or spice. This can make the experience feel relatable rather than elitist.
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Be Patient and Open: Understand that it takes time for some to appreciate craft beer. Encourage them to try new things at their own pace and celebrate their discoveries along the way.
Navigating the conversation about beer and craft beer doesn’t have to be daunting.