Enjoying Beer Alone: Is It Acceptable or Just Pretentious?

Many of us have experienced the often unspoken social norms surrounding alcohol consumption, especially when it comes to beer. It’s common to view beer drinking as a communal activity, typically associated with friends, celebrations, or lively gatherings. However, what happens when you find solace in savoring a well-crafted brew in solitude?

For the past year, while working from home, I have cultivated a personal ritual of indulging in a select beer while preparing dinner each evening. This is no ordinary beer; I intentionally choose something that boasts distinct flavors and complexity—something that truly deserves my full attention. However, this simple pleasure has started to evoke a sense of guilt within me.

My partner often raises her eyebrows at my choice to crack open a $35 barrel-aged sour or a $76 fruited 3F lambic on a random Wednesday evening. In her eyes, it feels a bit excessive to enjoy such luxurious beers without sharing the experience with others. She often suggests that I save them for gatherings, where they can be appreciated alongside friends. But the truth is, I find more joy in experiencing the intricate flavors of these beers alone, without the need to justify my selections or explain their unique qualities.

This leaves me pondering: Is this behavior truly normal? I frequently see social media posts filled with groups sharing rare, expensive bottles of beer, and it makes me wonder if I am missing out on an essential part of the experience. Yet, I can’t help but think about how many people struggle to distinguish between different hops like Citra and Mosaic, even in a social setting.

So, I pose this question to you, dear readers: Do you reserve your special beers for gatherings, or is it perfectly acceptable to enjoy them in your own company? Can we truly appreciate the nuances of an exceptional beer alone, or does the shared experience hold more value? Let’s delve into this discussion about the pleasure of solitary sipping versus the joy of sharing with others.