Mexico, a country famous for its rich history, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine, has another accolade to its name – fantastic beer! With a brewing history that dates back centuries, Mexico is now one of the largest beer producers in the world. This article takes you on a journey through the best cervezas that the country has to offer.
1. Corona Extra ABV: 4.5%
Let’s start with an international favorite. Corona Extra is a pale lager and probably one of the most recognizable Mexican beers around the globe. It’s light, crisp, and extremely refreshing, especially when served with a wedge of lime. Perfect for sipping on a beach or at a BBQ.
2. Modelo Especial ABV: 4.4%
Modelo Especial is a rich, full-flavored pilsner-style lager that has an orange blossom honey aroma with a hint of herb. Modelo Especial’s light hop character, tantalizing taste, and slightly sweet finish make it an excellent choice for those looking for a balanced, easy-drinking beer.
3. Negra Modelo ABV: 5.4%
Also known as Modelo Negra, this is a Munich-style Dunkel lager, and it’s a true classic. With its slow-roasted caramel malts, it’s richer and darker than its sibling, Modelo Especial. It offers a smooth taste with hints of chocolate and a slightly nutty finish.
4. Pacifico Clara ABV: 4.5%
Also known as Cerveza Pacifico, this pilsner-style lager was first brewed in 1900. With a crisp and light flavor profile, Pacifico Clara is especially popular amongst surfers. It’s the beer to grab after a day in the sun and surf.
5. Dos Equis Ambar ABV: 4.7%
Dos Equis Ambar is a Vienna-style lager with a full-bodied, malty flavor profile, with rich notes of toasty grains and subtle hints of almond and spice. This is the choice for someone looking to explore beyond the pale lagers while still enjoying a very drinkable beer.
6. Bohemia Clásica ABV: 4.7%
Bohemia Clásica is one of Mexico’s oldest beers and is a very refined pilsner. It offers a slightly fruity character with a crisp hop finish, courtesy of the noble Saaz hops. Its complex yet balanced flavor makes it a favorite amongst beer connoisseurs.
7. Cucapá Chupacabras Pale Ale ABV: 5.8%
Cucapá is a craft brewery from Mexicali, and Chupacabras Pale Ale is one of its flagship beers. It’s a well-hopped American Pale Ale that offers a nice balance between caramel malts and citrusy hops. For those seeking something bolder and craftier, this is a great choice.
8. Indio ABV: 5.0%
Indio is a dark lager with a malty taste profile. It has a balanced sweetness with hints of caramel and a light hop bitterness. With its unique flavor, it stands out among other Mexican lagers and is best enjoyed with hearty foods.
9. Calavera Mexican Imperial Stout ABV: 9.0%
Calavera is a microbrewery known for pushing boundaries, and their Mexican Imperial Stout is no exception. This is a bold, rich, and heavy beer with notes of coffee, chocolate, and dried fruit. Its high alcohol content and complex flavor profile make it an excellent choice for savoring slowly, perhaps as a dessert beer or with a rich, flavorful meal.
10. Tijuana Morena ABV: 4.8%
From the Tijuana-based brewery, Cerveza Tijuana, Morena is an amber lager with a rich malt profile. With its caramel sweetness balanced by a touch of hop bitterness, it is an excellent choice for those looking for a full-flavored lager that is still highly drinkable.
A Toast to Mexican Brews!
Mexican beers are as diverse and vibrant as the country itself. From the internationally recognized lagers to bold craft beers, there is something for every beer enthusiast. These top beers of Mexico are a testament to the country’s brewing heritage and modern creativity. So, next time you find yourself in the mood for a cerveza, consider exploring beyond the usual and savor the diverse flavors that Mexican beers have to offer. ¡Salud!
