Embracing Solo Beer Appreciation: Is It a Social Faux Pas?

Have you ever found yourself sipping on a fine beer alone, feeling a twinge of guilt because it’s traditionally seen as a social activity? If so, you’re not alone.

Over the past year of remote work, I’ve cultivated a delightful ritual: at around 6 PM, I treat myself to a carefully chosen beer while preparing dinner. I’m not just grabbing any can off the shelf; I’m talking about complex, flavor-rich brews that deserve my full attention. However, recently I’ve begun to feel as though I’m committing a societal misstep by indulging in this experience solo.

My significant other tends to raise an eyebrow at my choices, especially when I opt for a $35 barrel-aged sour or a $76 fruited lambic on a regular Wednesday night. She often asks why I don’t save these unique finds for gatherings with friends, so I can share the experience. But truth be told, I appreciate the quiet moments where I can simply enjoy the intricate flavors without needing to justify my choices or explain the details of the beer’s complex profile.

This leads me to ponder—is this behavior typical? It seems that social media is flooded with images of bottle shares, where individuals come together specifically to taste rare, expensive beers. Part of me questions whether I’m missing out on an important communal aspect of beer appreciation. Yet, when I think about it, not everyone can discern the difference between hop varieties like Citra and Mosaic.

So, this raises a question: do others reserve their prized bottles for group settings, or is it perfectly acceptable to relish in great beer alone? Is solitude an opportunity for deeper appreciation rather than a missed social cue?

In a world where beer is often synonymous with gathering and camaraderie, it’s worth exploring the idea that enjoying a fine brew at your own pace can be just as fulfilling. After all, authentic appreciation can take many forms, including those quiet, contemplative moments spent by yourself. So, maybe it’s time to shift the narrative around solo beer drinking and embrace the joy it can bring to our lives.