Embracing Craft Beer: A Common Struggle with Beer Snobbery

If you enjoy exploring the vast world of craft beer, you might find yourself confronted with a familiar dilemma: the perception of being a “beer snob” for simply opting for a drink that reflects a little more flavor than the standard macro lagers. This scenario recently unfolded during a dinner outing with colleagues, showcasing just how polarized beer preferences can be.

As the server approached our table to take drink orders, I opted for the house IPA, anticipating a delightful burst of hoppy goodness. Much to my surprise, the reaction was swift and somewhat judgmental. A coworker exclaimed, “Wow, you’re really into that craft beer stuff!” It felt as if I had just requested an elaborate wine pairing with my meal, rather than simply choosing a flavorful beer.

In another corner of the table, a different colleague declared his allegiance to “normal” beer, insisting that he didn’t need all those extravagant flavors. His choice? A Stella, which he touted as “imported”—as if that automatically elevated it above local craft offerings. It was ironic to hear him dismiss my IPA while paying a premium for a brew that tasted remarkably similar to a mass-produced lager.

As I tried to articulate my love for hops and the complexity they bring to beer, it became clear that I was engaging in a conversation with someone who viewed anything outside of Bud Light as pretentious. My intention wasn’t to make a statement or ruffle feathers; I simply wanted to enjoy a drink with genuine taste. The outcome? Apparently, choosing an IPA or any craft beer transforms you into “one of those people who likes the taste of Pine Sol and clementine peels.”

Many of us who appreciate craft beer have likely encountered this conundrum—having to defend our preferences to those who consider a lime wedge in their Corona to be an adventurous choice. It’s moments like these that challenge us to navigate discussions about our diverse tastes without coming across as elitist.

How do you handle these situations? Do you embrace the opportunity to educate or play it cool and simply sip your delightful brew? As beer enthusiasts, we appreciate the artistry and flavors that craft breweries offer, and perhaps it’s time to celebrate the uniqueness of our preferences rather than defend them. After all, the world of beer is vast and varied, inviting all palates to join the exploration.