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Steven Coulson
Steven has been drinking beers, wines and spirits for decades and has a propensity to go about them at length after a few drinks.
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Title: Embracing Solo Beer Enjoyment: Is It Really a Social Crime?
In today’s fast-paced world, many of us find solace in the simple ritual of unwinding at the end of the day. For some, this involves indulging in a well-crafted beer. However, a curious question arises – can one truly savor a quality beer alone without feeling guilty about missing out on the social aspect of this experience?
Over the past year of remote work, I’ve developed a pleasing routine that involves selecting a special beer to enjoy as I prepare dinner in the evenings. This isn’t just any beer; I’m talking about those intricate, flavorful brews that deserve thoughtful attention. Yet, a nagging feeling of guilt has begun to creep in as I enjoy my solitary tasting sessions. It seems I’ve started to question whether enjoying a finely crafted beverage alone is tantamount to a social faux pas.
My partner has expressed her reservations about my choices, often teasing me about opening a $35 barrel-aged sour or a $76 fruited lambic just for myself on a midweek evening. She nudges, suggesting these special brews are best shared with friends during gatherings. But here’s the crux of it: there’s something deeply satisfying about experiencing the unique flavors and complex profiles of these beers without the distraction of conversation. I’d rather savor the nuances than spend my time justifying my choices or explaining the subtle differences between hop varieties.
This brings me to ponder—am I the only one who relishes the opportunity to enjoy great beer in solitude? I often scroll through social media, admiring posts of bottle shares and gatherings where enthusiasts come together to appreciate rare and intricate beers. While I value the idea of community in enjoying craft beer, I also wonder if it’s possible to fully appreciate these brews on one’s own.
Is saving excellent beers for communal enjoyment the way to go, or is it perfectly acceptable to embrace solo appreciation? For those who seek a deeper connection with their drinks, there’s undeniable value in solitary indulgence. After all, enjoyment comes in many forms, and whether shared or enjoyed alone, great beer has the power to elevate our spirits.
So, fellow beer aficionados—what’s your perspective? Do you reserve special libations for gatherings, or do you also find joy in savoring them solo? Let’s spark a conversation about our varied experiences with the appreciation of craft beer, whether in the company of others or in blissful solitude.