Get friends to know their craft beers

June 24, 2009

For those who deeply feel that there's more to the beer experience than Bud Light, it can be frustrating to either be taken seriously as a beer aficionado, or to entice friends to taste more obscure brews.

Consider bringing your friends together to help them learn about craft beers, either in a public setting or over at your house so they can share - or at least understand - your passion.

If your city has a specialty brewery, kick off the event with a tour of the facility to show friends that craft beer is accessible and the process interesting. For example, in Boston the Harpoon brewery has daily tours and tastings, so visitors can learn more about specific beer flavors and contents.

To avoid holding a party at home, invite everyone to gather in a local bar that specializes in craft beer. Most bartenders at such establishments are knowledgeable and will help wary Miller Lite fans find new brews.

Otherwise, invite everyone over for craft beers and have a wide selection on hand of your favorites, but maybe even some that are brand new. Remember to have traditional bar snacks, meats and cheeses on hand for hungry guests.