Navigating Beer Preferences: Is It Wrong to Savor Craft Brews?

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where simply ordering a craft beer feels like a declaration of snobbery? Recently, I experienced just that during a dinner outing with colleagues. When the server inquired about my beverage choice, I opted for the house IPA, expecting nothing beyond a satisfying drink. Instead, I was met with a wave of surprised reactions, as if I had ordered an elaborate wine pairing for a simple chicken sandwich.

One coworker openly expressed his disdain for “fancy flavors,” insisting he preferred “a normal beer that tastes like beer.” Ironically, he chose a Stella, proudly labeling it as an “imported” option, as if that inherently made it superior to the local craft IPA I was enjoying. It struck me as amusing – here was someone willing to spend more on a mass-produced beer that simply resembled another large-brand lager, yet dismissing a local brew as pretentious.

As I attempted to clarify that the hops in my beer weren’t some form of exotic additive, it became evident that he viewed anything outside the realm of Bud Light as overly complex. I couldn’t help but feel a bit defensive about my choice, as I was merely seeking a drink with actual flavor. It raised an important question: how can one navigate these conversations about beer preferences without coming off as a connoisseur?

Many craft beer enthusiasts, or simply those who enjoy flavorful options, have likely been caught in similar discussions. It can be frustrating to find yourself justifying your taste in beers, especially to those who equate Corona with lime as adventurous. The important takeaway here is that enjoying diverse beer flavors doesn’t make you a snob; it simply reflects an appreciation for the craft.

So, how do you handle it when faced with these types of conversations? Emphasizing the qualities of a craft beer and the effort behind local brewing can help. After all, it’s about enjoying what you prefer, whether that’s a light lager or an aromatic IPA. Cheers to individual tastes and the enjoyment of quality craft beer, regardless of what anyone else thinks!