There has been a lot of talk about this due to the rise of many “craft-like” brands from large worldwide operations.   Here’s Jim Koch, who obviously knows a thing or two about the practice and the industry:

“There is no avoiding the need for definition,” Koch said. “If we refuse to acknowledge a point of difference between craft and non-craft, we will destroy the first meaningful point of difference in the beer business in 50 years.”

That difference, is one that has allowed craft brewers the ability to command higher prices which stimulate profitability and growth for all tiers of the industry, said Koch.

The whole piece and all of its reference materials are worth a read.

What do you think?  Should every beer be judged on its merits alone, regardless of branding?  Is the distinction necessary and if so, is it defined accurately it is currently used by Brewers Association?