The Solo Beer Ritual: A Reflection on Enjoying Craft Brews Alone

In recent years, the landscape of work and leisure has shifted significantly, particularly for those of us who have embraced remote work. With this change, many have developed their own unique routines to help transition from the workday to the evening. For some, this includes the comforting act of enjoying a well-crafted beer amidst the daily grind. However, this practice can sometimes spark a sense of guilt, especially when it’s done alone.

For the past year, I’ve found solace in the ritual of savoring a meticulously chosen beer each evening around 6 PM as I prepare dinner. It’s not just any beverage I reach for; I’m talking about something with noteworthy complexity and depth, a craft beer that truly deserves attention. Yet, as I indulge in this solitary appreciation, I can’t help but feel a twinge of social anxiety. Am I committing some unspoken offense against the communal ethos of beer drinking?

My partner views this habit with skepticism, suggesting that it seems a bit indulgent to crack open a $35 barrel-aged sour or a $76 fruited lambic without the company of friends. “Why not save it for when we host others?” she questions, implying that such experiences are best shared. But honestly, there’s something liberating about exploring the nuances of a beer on my own terms without needing to explain why I appreciate it beyond its price tag.

This leads to an interesting inquiry: Is it truly acceptable to relish a complex beer in solitude, or am I missing out on a crucial social connection? I often see posts about bottle shares, where enthusiasts gather around rare and exquisite brews, and I wonder if I’m overlooking an essential part of that experience. Yet, I also recognize that many casual drinkers wouldn’t notice the difference between various hops like Citra and Mosaic.

So, I pose this question to fellow beer lovers: Do you reserve your favorite libations for gatherings, or is it perfectly fine to enjoy them alone? Can we find joy in appreciating exceptional craft beers in our own company? After all, perhaps the true essence of enjoying a great beer lies not solely in the presence of others, but in the personal journey of exploration and taste. Cheers to solitary sipping and the enjoyment that comes with it!