Funny experience in the craft section at a grocery store...

I think you're being overly sensitive and that their conversation had nothing to do with you.

Usually when someone thinks I don't know much and cares enough to want to offer ideas they talk to me. When they don't....

Remember. In an era of ear buds and loud personal music players many people have damaged their hearing (without realizing it) and talk loudly to each other because their hearing isn't that good.

 

I have to agree. Two guys talking to each other can say all kinds of random pointless shit. If they didn't address me directly I would be completely oblivious to them. It's always possible you ran into some assholes trying to start something, but in all likelihood it had nothing to do with you.

 

No, this happens. I was at the liquor store one day and staring at the beer fridge for like 5 minutes at least, and some guy came up to me and asked if he could help me pick something out, as if he was some expert. I told him I was browsing. He then started talking to his friend like he was trying to be a beer scholar. I listened and he was giving basic info at best, but trying to sound cool, probably for me. The funny part was at the end his friend motions towards Lagunitas Dopple-Sticky (a little background, this beer was out for maybe 2 days by this point- 1st ever release) and he's like, "yeah I've had that a few months back, its good but I prefer x beer..."
I'm just thinking to myself, no......

 

I guess you can never underestimate the number of douchebags there are out there, particularly in beer coolers unfortunately.

 

It's certainly a bummer for people think they're better for having had a craft beer or two. Unfortunately, you see the same thing in the coffee world. Just like in life, stay humble.

 

I've run into a few people like this, as well. That old saying comes to mind....If you can't dazzle them with brilliance, baffle them with bullshit!

 

When I first got into craft a few months ago, I was "staring" and a fellow offered advice. He was knowledgeable, asked a couple of questions, and pointed me at some appropriate beers based on my answers. Sometimes folks have good intentions.

 

Great advice! To all the know-it-alls out there, just remember, no one cares.

 

I'll gladly chime in if people seem to have a developing interest in craft beer. Usually, I'll make a recommendation and see if they freely ask me a question or two.

 

It may seem harsh, but honestly, it's the truth. I'd love to quiz someone on malts, hops, yeast, glassware, recipes, etc., but there is no sense in touting what you know and holding it over others just out in the open. Some people care about what yeast is in their beer, others don't even know what yeast does in beer. Who cares? Enjoy your beer.

I'll ask if I have a question

 

I can't help but wonder if these guys were sizing OP up, or just looking at him wondering if he has anything to contribute to the conversation.

I often find myself in conversations about beer with strangers at bottle shops and many other locations. I could see myself in the same situation as OP, and saying "not all IPA's are strong." If they weren't receptive to discussion I would move on.

Sometimes people are just talking about beer because they like beer.

And as a BA, we should be mindful that just because someone knows less than you, it doesn't mean they are not open to learning more.

BA is all about sharing what we know.

 

Sure. It's just the difference between a friendly what's up nod and some ass in your business looking for an audience. No different than the loudmouth in a bar or anything else.