I just read this comment about the trailer on YouTube : “This is such propaganda! Why is Jim Koch talking about his products when everyone knows that most of the Sam Adams line is contract brewed by Miller. In addition, he is one of the largest brewers in the country. I personally like a lot of different styles of beer, and I think it is up to the consumer as to what they drink. You can’t sit here and tell me that every micro brew out there would not like to sell more of their product! The elitist attitudes will destroy the craft beer movement.”
Wow. This guy is certainly passionate. And some of his comments were echoed by people I met at screenings and panels over the past few weeks.
One thing is certain. There is no singular craft beer enthusiast. And perceptions vary widely.
There are many who believe that craft beer should stay small and local. Some believe that craft beer should not be made by corporations. But on one of the panels, all 5 brewers admitted that their breweries/brewpubs were all… corporations. Seems like those people feel less connected once “their” discovery brand gets “too big” and move on to the next small brand. But that’s a contradiction. All breweries are businesses (that’s why some homebrewers see going “pro” as the next step) and therefore want to get bigger. Bigger means making more beer to satisfy consumer demand. And just because they get bigger doesn’t mean they’re sacrificing quality or their soul. I think Sam Calagione addresses this issue eloquently in the film when he contemplates expansion. And by the way, Boston Beer (maker of Sam Adams) is less than 1% of the US beer market so size is relative.
I believe that consumers should drink what they like. Period. Regardless of the size of the brewery. It’s all about personal choice. I have nothing against BudMillerCoors. Even craft brewers admit that there’s nothing better on a really hot summer day. I think that choice is personal. Buy products from companies whose quality appeals to you. And if you care, whose ethics match yours.
More from the panels/audience Q&A to come.
