The Solo Beer Experience: A Personal Exploration of Enjoying Craft Brews

As the days blend seamlessly into one another while working from home, many of us develop our unique rituals that provide comfort and a sense of normalcy. For me, this has become the moment I open a meticulously chosen beer around 6 p.m., right as I prepare dinner. This isn’t just any beer; it’s a selection that embodies flavor and complexity, deserving of my full attention. However, I’ve recently found myself grappling with a curious feeling—guilt. Is it really acceptable to relish a fine beer alone when it’s typically seen as a social beverage?

My partner often raises her eyebrows at my choice to indulge in a $35 barrel-aged sour or a $76 fruited lambic on a seemingly ordinary Wednesday night. She poses a valid question: why not save these special brews for gatherings, where their depth can be shared and appreciated with others? The truth is, I find immense pleasure in savoring the complex flavors in solitude without the need to explain why a particular beer transcends mere expense.

But am I alone in this sentiment? In an age where social media showcases bottle shares and gatherings centered around unique, rare beers, I sometimes wonder if I am missing out on an essential communal aspect of beer appreciation. It seems that many relish the opportunity to drink and converse over a shared passion for craft brews, perhaps losing sight of the joy that can come from enjoying these creations alone.

On the flip side, I often remind myself that not everyone can distinguish between Citra and Mosaic hops, let alone appreciate the subtleties of a well-aged sour. So, should I reserve my finest selections for social occasions, or is it perfectly normal to enjoy them in quiet solitude?

This internal debate leads me to ask: How do others approach their beer enjoyment? Do you tuck your rare finds away for gatherings, or do you believe there is merit in appreciating great beer on your own terms? Embracing our individual drinking experiences might just be as significant as the communal ones. After all, beer is an art, and sometimes, it deserves to be savored one sip at a time.