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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
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- 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: Discussing the Difference Between Beer and Craft Beer with Friends
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your friends casually refer to grabbing “a beer,” only to show up with a 30-pack of the cheapest option on the shelf? It can be frustrating when it feels like there’s a vast universe of flavors and experiences in the world of craft beer that they’re missing out on. You want to share your passion without coming across as pretentious or dismissive.
When your friends casually point to a menu and simply order “a beer,” it can feel like they’re overlooking the rich variety available. Recently, I brought some quality craft beers to a gathering in hopes of introducing my friends to new flavors. Unfortunately, their response was tepid at best—most took a single polite sip before returning to their familiar choices.
The moment I tried to discuss aspects like hops or brewing techniques, I sensed their interest waning. It was as if I had triggered an internal alarm signaling them to disengage from what they perceived as a preachy lecture about craft beer. It’s a delicate line to walk: you want to educate and share, but you also don’t want to come off as a snob.
So how do you convey the distinction between standard beer and craft beer without alienating your friends? Here are some strategies to consider:
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Lead with Flavor: Instead of diving into the technicalities of brewing, focus on the flavors involved. Share your excitement about specific tastes you enjoy and invite them to experience something new.
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Invite Engagement: When planning a hangout, propose a taste test with a variety of craft beers. Make it a fun event where everyone can try different styles and share their thoughts. This can turn into an enjoyable experience rather than a lecture.
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Use Relatable Comparisons: Frame the conversation in terms your friends can relate to. Compare craft beers to their favorites by explaining how certain styles elevate familiar tastes.
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Foster a Low-pressure Environment: Emphasize that exploring craft beer doesn’t mean abandoning their go-to choices. Highlight the idea of variety—craft beer is simply another way to enjoy a night out.
If you’ve faced a similar situation, share your insights! How have you successfully bridged the gap between casual drinking and craft beer appreciation with your friends? Let’s foster an open dialogue about embracing the wonderful world of beer together, one sip at a time.