A Fine Line Exists Between Being a Beer Snob and a Jerk

I wrote an article for a friend’s beer blog over two years ago and wanted to revisit the subject at hand because I feel it is even more relevant today. Since the inception of shouldidrinkthat.com, a beer podcast that I co-host with Douglas Derda (aka Father Spoon) we have been described by some as beer snobs.

We have been confronted with this term that is laid upon any and all craft beer lovers from a large group of their peers. While part of me is still quite proud to own this label, there is a part of me that despises this terminology.

I have learned even more over time that this term can be quite damaging to the craft beer industry as a whole. We at SIDT are proud to introduce average folks to great craft beer. And from experience I can tell you that these same folks are very turned off by the stereotypical beer snob who talks over their heads, and spits out beer terminology like a scientist.

So if you consider yourself a “beer snob” and want to spread the good word of craft beer, please keep in mind the next time you chastise someone for drinking one of the “BMC” (Bud, Miller & Coors) beers that these folks are new to the industry as a whole.

If they are willing to listen, offer them a gateway beer and explain the blood, sweat and tears that these brewers experience in order to share their favorite recipes and styles with the masses.

Explain the different styles and recommend that they keep trying until they find their favorite. If they are not willing to listen and simply insult your beverage of choice, move on to someone who is willing to listen.

Even as an experienced craft beer fan, I feel that there is a fine line between beer snob and arrogant jerk. If you love craft beer and want to see the industry grow, I implore you to not cross that line and simply be respectful and have patience with your new craft beer prospects.

I am still proud to be a beer snob and always will be. Just remember to keep your beer knowledge to yourself if no one asks. Hold that knowledge and opinion for your peers in your craft beer circles and when they are ready, simply invite them in. While it’s perfectly fine and extremely pleasurable to denounce whatever swill your non-beer snob acquaintances are drinking, you must carefully weigh each word when amongst your own.