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Steven Coulson
Steven has been drinking beers, wines and spirits for decades and has a propensity to go about them at length after a few drinks.
Latest Posts
- Dissecting The Beer Menu – An Irish Pub & Layered Brews
- Has anyone else noticed that every “limited release” somehow stays on shelves for months?
- Dissecting The Beer Menu – An Irish Pub & Layered Brews
- Headed to Asheville – looking for top breweries to get German style in cans / bottles
- Does anyone else feel guilty drinking beer alone because it’s supposed to be a social experience?
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Title: Embracing Solo Beer Appreciation: A Toast to Individual Tasting Rituals
Have you ever felt a touch of guilt while enjoying a beer by yourself? It’s an interesting sentiment, particularly in a culture that often associates drinking with camaraderie and social settings.
Over the past year, my routine has increasingly revolved around my evenings at home. After a long day of working remotely, I take time around 6 PM to pour myself a well-chosen beer while preparing dinner. But this isn’t just any beer; I’m talking about those thoughtfully crafted brews that burst with flavor and intricacy, designed to be savored. Yet, recently, I’ve started to question whether enjoying such a moment alone might be seen as somewhat anti-social.
My partner has expressed skepticism about my solo drinking habits, especially when I indulge in a high-end barrel-aged sour or a limited-edition fruited lambic on a Wednesday evening. She wonders aloud why I don’t reserve these unique experiences for when we have company, suggesting that sharing makes these fine beverages more worthwhile. However, I often find that I’d rather immerse myself in the complex flavors of my beer in solitude than have to justify my choice of indulgence.
This raises an interesting point: is it typical to enjoy premium beers alone, or am I missing out on something by not sharing these moments? I frequently observe social media posts showcasing communal beer tastings where enthusiasts gather around rare and pricey bottles, and I can’t help but feel a twinge of curiosity about those shared experiences. But then I remind myself that many casual drinkers may struggle to distinguish between different hop varieties.
So, I pose the question to fellow beer enthusiasts: is it perfectly acceptable to appreciate a fine brew in solitude, or should such experiences be reserved for gatherings? What do you think? Do you save your favorite bottles for social occasions or do you relish in savoring them on your own? In a world that often emphasizes shared experiences, perhaps it’s time to embrace and celebrate solo beer tasting as a legitimate and fulfilling pursuit. Cheers to enjoying great beer, whether alone or with friends!