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Embracing Solo Beer Enjoyment: A Personal Reflection

Have you ever found yourself feeling a twinge of guilt for savoring a beer alone? It’s a sentiment that many may resonate with, especially considering the social connotations that often accompany this beloved beverage.

After spending the past year working from home, I’ve developed a delightful evening routine: settling into the kitchen around 6 PM, selecting a distinctive beer that elevates my dinner preparation. I’m not talking about just any beer; I consciously choose brews that boast rich flavors and intricate profiles, ones that warrant my full attention. However, I’ve recently started to feel like I’m committing a faux pas by enjoying these beers solo—an act that seems to contradict the communal essence of beer drinking.

My girlfriend often jokingly critiques my habit when I pop open a $35 barrel-aged sour or a $76 fruited lambic on a regular Wednesday evening. She questions why I don’t save these indulgences for when we have friends over, suggesting that sharing them would enhance the experience. Yet, I find that there’s a certain joy in quietly appreciating the nuances of these brews without the need to explain or justify their value. To me, the Brett character and complex flavors deserve contemplation without a social agenda.

Is it normal to relish beer in solitude? As I scroll through social media, I see countless posts from groups enjoying rare and expensive bottles together. It makes me wonder if I’m missing out on a fundamental aspect of the beer experience. However, I remind myself that not everyone can differentiate between hop varieties like Citra and Mosaic, and sometimes the joy of beer can be found in the personal connection we develop with it, regardless of the company.

So, I ask: Do others save their special brews for gatherings, or is it perfectly acceptable to enjoy exceptional beer on one’s own? As I navigate my relationship with beer and community, I find solace in knowing that there is no singular way to appreciate this craft. Whether sharing a drink with friends or enjoying a quiet moment of reflection with a fine ale, what matters most is the personal connection we nurture with our choices. Cheers to finding balance in both shared and solo experiences!