The Solo Sipping Dilemma: Celebrating Craft Beer Alone

Craft beer is often celebrated as a communal experience — a shared joy best enjoyed in the company of friends or family. However, I find myself grappling with a peculiar feeling of guilt when I choose to indulge in a fine brew by myself. Over the past year of remote work, I’ve developed a ritual that I look forward to every evening: around 6 PM, I open a carefully selected beer as I prepare dinner. Not just any beer, mind you, but one that boasts rich flavors and complexities worthy of reverence.

Lately, though, I’ve started to feel like I’m committing a social faux pas by savoring my treasured brews in solitude. Take, for instance, a $35 barrel-aged sour or a $76 fruited lambic; these offerings serve as the evening’s highlight, yet my girlfriend gently teases me for indulging in such high-end choices when there’s no one to share the experience with. “Why not save it for when we have guests?” she asks. But to me, there’s immense value in quietly relishing the intricate notes and aromas of a well-crafted beer without the need for an audience.

I can’t help but question whether my behavior is out of the ordinary. As I scroll through social media, I see countless posts of bottle shares where enthusiasts gather to celebrate rare and complex brews. Part of me wonders if I’m missing out on a crucial aspect of enjoying great beer. After all, many social settings revolve around such experiences. Yet, I also think back to how often I’ve witnessed others struggle to differentiate between hops like Citra and Mosaic.

So, I’m left pondering: do others save their luxurious libations for shared moments, or is it perfectly acceptable to appreciate exceptional beers in peaceful solitude? The joy of craft beer is vast, and perhaps it can be found in both social gatherings and quiet evenings at home. After all, every sip tells a story, whether shared or enjoyed solo. What are your thoughts on this solo sipping experience? Is it a personal celebration or a missed opportunity for connection?