Embracing Solo Sips: The Delicate Art of Enjoying Beer Alone

In a world where socializing often seems to come hand-in-hand with our beverage choices, the question arises: is it acceptable to savor a good beer by yourself? Many of us have been there—we crack open a bottle of something special at the end of a long day, yet a twinge of guilt creeps in as we sit alone, questioning if we’re doing a disservice to the experience.

For the past year, I’ve taken to working from home, and with this lifestyle shift, I’ve cultivated a little ritual that I now hold dear. Every evening around six, while preparing dinner, I’ll treat myself to a thoughtfully chosen beer—not just any brew, but one that boasts genuine flavor and complexity. Lately, though, I’ve found myself grappling with an odd sense of guilt about enjoying these moments in solitude. It feels as though I’m committing a faux pas by enjoying my craft beer without company.

Interestingly, my partner shares her perspective on this. She often raises an eyebrow at my decision to indulge in a $35 barrel-aged sour or a $76 fruited lambic all on my own, especially on a midweek evening. “Why not save those for when we have guests?” she reasons. But here’s the thing: in those moments, I genuinely prefer to immerse myself in the flavors and aromas without the need to justify my choice or explain why this beer is not “just expensive.”

This raises a pertinent question: is it just me, or is there a growing cultural belief that great beer is meant to be shared? Social media is rife with bottle share posts showcasing friends gathering around rare, expensive brews. I can’t help but wonder if I’m somehow missing out on a communal experience. And yet, let’s be honest—how many people truly appreciate the nuanced differences between various hops, like Citra and Mosaic?

So, I ask you, dear readers: Is it perfectly acceptable to enjoy fine beer in solitude, or do you believe that libations should always be shared? There’s a quiet joy in personal appreciation, and perhaps we shouldn’t feel guilty about taking time to indulge in those moments alone. After all, each sip can tell a story, whether we’re enjoying it in company or in peaceful solitude.