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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.
Latest Posts
- Does anyone else feel guilty drinking beer alone because it’s supposed to be a social experience?
- I’m new to drinking beer and I need some suggestions.
- Cleaning house and found a 10-15 year old bottle of barley wine from High Water Brewing, which I think no longer exists. What are the chances it’s drinkable, as in not holding my nose drinkable?
- I’m new to drinking beer and I need some suggestions.
- Tried Dragon’s Milk and loved it, any other dark/milk stout recommendations?
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Embracing Solo Sip Sessions: Is Enjoying Beer Alone a Social Faux Pas?
In today’s fast-paced world, the joy of enjoying a fine beer seems increasingly entwined with social gatherings. However, for some individuals who have embraced remote work, a different ritual has emerged, one that often walks the line between self-care and social stigma.
Take, for instance, the practice of unwinding with a carefully curated beer selection at the end of the day. As someone who has been working from home for over a year, I have developed a delightful routine of pouring myself a unique, flavorful beer as I prep dinner each evening. This isn’t just about quenching thirst; it’s about savoring complex flavors, whether it’s a barrel-aged sour or an exquisitely crafted lambic. This deep appreciation has become a cherished personal ritual.
However, I’ve recently found myself grappling with a sense of guilt. Is it wrong to indulge in these special brews alone? My partner tends to view this habit as a bit excessive, often questioning why I wouldn’t wait until we have friends over to share these unique experiences. After all, her perspective is rooted in the idea that enjoying beer is inherently a social endeavor.
Yet, here’s the conundrum: the isolation of savoring these beverages alone offers a focus on the intricate notes of the brew—notes that might get lost in the shuffle of conversation and casual banter. It’s not merely about enjoying “expensive” beer; it’s about recognizing the craftsmanship and the stories these beverages tell.
I can’t help but wonder if I’m alone in this. Social media is flooded with pictures of vibrant gatherings centered around rare and complex beers, leaving me to ponder whether I’m missing out on the essential camaraderie that often accompanies such experiences. But then imagery of gatherings filled with people who might not distinguish between various hop varieties surfaces, reminding me that appreciation takes on many forms.
Ultimately, is it acceptable to cherish a moment of reflection with a superbly crafted beer, even when it’s just you, your thoughts, and your kitchen?
If you’ve found yourself in a similar situation, I’d love to hear from you. Do you save your prized bottles for group enjoyment, or do you relish the opportunity to savor them in solitude? Is it time we redefine how we view individual enjoyment of fine beers, celebrating solitude rather than stigmatizing it? After all, every sip can tell a story, whether shared or