Navigating the Lone Beer Experience: Is It Acceptable to Savor a Craft Brew Alone?

In today’s fast-paced world, many of us find ourselves developing unique personal rituals. For some, that includes the enjoyment of a carefully chosen craft beer, especially after a long day of remote work. As a home-based worker over the past year, I’ve discovered a delightful routine of opening a special beer around 6 PM while preparing dinner. It’s not just any beer, but rather something with depth and character that deserves my full attention.

However, a nagging guilt has begun to creep in. Am I the only one who feels a twinge of remorse for indulging in a solo beer experience? Lately, I can’t shake the feeling that enjoying a high-quality brew without company is somehow a social faux pas.

Take, for example, my recent decision to crack open a luxurious barrel-aged sour that costs $35, or a $76 fruited lambic from Three Fonteinen—all for my own consumption on a Wednesday evening. My girlfriend often comments on this, suggesting that I should reserve these exceptional selections for times when we have guests, enabling others to participate in is what she views as an extravagant indulgence. But truthfully, I find more joy in savoring the nuanced flavors of a complex beer in my own company than I would explaining its merits to someone who might not fully appreciate it.

This has left me wondering—am I indulging in unacceptable behavior? Social media platforms brim with posts showcasing communal beer-sharing events, where enthusiasts gather to enjoy rare finds together. While I sometimes feel I might be missing out on that shared experience, I can’t help but ponder if most casual drinkers even recognize the subtle differences between hops like Citra and Mosaic.

So, I ask: Do others choose to save their prized beverages for gatherings, or is it perfectly acceptable to relish a remarkable beer on your own? If you’ve ever experienced this dilemma, I would love to hear your thoughts. After all, appreciating great beer shouldn’t be confined to social settings; perhaps it’s equally valuable to enjoy it in solitude.