About Mexican Beer
Prior to the Europeans arriving in Mexico, ancient civilizations had been fermenting plants and corn grains to produce alcoholic beverages. This drink was called Pulque which is still sold today.
In the 16th century, the Spaniards were the first to introduce wheat and barley based beers, although production was limited due to the lack of grains. There was a push to locally grow barley but high taxes from the Spanish government drove the Mexicans to import their beers from European traders. After Mexico’s War of Independence, beer production began to flourish because they did not have to adhere to the European regulations and taxes. In the latter part of the 19th century, Mexico saw an influx of German immigrants who helped to diversify and improve its products.
By the time the Mexican Revolution was over, the country had more than thirty-five breweries; however, consolidation began in the early 1920’s. This consolidation brought about the “big-two” breweries- Cerveceria Cuautehmoc-Moctezuma(FEMSA) and Cerveceria Modelo(Grupo Modelo) which accounts for over 90% of Mexican beer production.
Modern day Mexican beer typically consist of lagers, pilsners, Vienna-style light and dark beers as well as Munich dark beers. The country truly has taken pieces of its European influence to become a major contributor to the world’s beer supply!
Mexican Beer Reviews
Top Picks:
Baja Brewing La Surfa Baja Lager
Estrella Jalisco
Modelo Especial
Negra Modelo
Mexican Beers
Amber Beers
Dos Equis Ambar
Lager Beers
Baja Brewing La Surfa Baja Lager
Negra Modelo
Tecate
Victoria
Pilsner Beers
Estrella Jalisco
Corona Extra
Corona Familiar
Modelo Especial
Pacifico
Sol Cerveza