Exploring 15 Mexican Beers: The Ultimate Guide to Iconic Brews

by Dane Wilson | Last Updated: March 31, 2025

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While American shelves overflow with mass-produced options, most beer enthusiasts miss out on the rich brewing traditions that span generations across Mexico. Frustrated by limited selections and misconceptions about Mexican beers? You’re not alone. This guide cuts through the noise to reveal Mexico’s diverse beer landscape – from crisp lagers perfect for sunny afternoons to complex craft brews challenging industry giants. Whether you’re planning a fiesta or simply expanding your beer horizons, prepare to discover hidden gems that deliver genuine Mexican flavor without boarding a plane south.

Table of Contents

• Corona
• Modelo Especial
• Negra Modelo
• Pacifico
• Victoria
• Dos Equis Lager
• Dos Equis Amber
• Tecate
• Sol
• Bohemia
• Carta Blanca
• Indio
• Montejo
• Cerveza Minerva (Craft Beer Highlight)
• Discover Your Perfect Mexican Pour
• FAQs

Corona

Corona isn’t just a beer – it’s a global phenomenon that transformed from a local Mexican brew to an international symbol of beach days and good times. Born in 1925 under Grupo Modelo and now owned by AB InBev, this pale lager has become Mexico’s ambassador worldwide.

• Clear, distinctive bottle showcasing golden color
• Light, crisp flavor profile with 4.5% ABV
• Mexico’s most successful beer export
• Iconic status in beach culture

For the perfect Corona experience, chill thoroughly, insert a lime wedge halfway into the neck, and gently push it in to release the citrus oils before enjoying.

Related: Coronita vs Corona: It’s a Mexican Beer Standoff!

Modelo Especial

Modelo Especial has quietly established itself as a powerhouse in the Mexican beer landscape. First brewed in 1925 by Grupo Modelo, this pilsner-style lager has become a favorite for those seeking something with more character than Corona.

The brewing process involves a longer maturation period, giving Modelo its distinctive full-flavored profile with perfect balance between hops and barley.

• Rich, slightly sweet malt character
• 4.4% ABV with medium body
• Distinctive gold-foil wrapped neck
• Now Mexico’s top-selling beer domestically

For the ultimate experience, serve in a pilsner glass at around 40°F.

Negra Modelo

Negra Modelo stands proudly as Mexico’s premier dark beer, offering a sophisticated alternative to its lighter counterparts. This Vienna-style lager, brewed by Grupo Modelo since 1926, delivers a complex flavor profile that serious beer enthusiasts appreciate.

• Deep, complex maltiness with caramel and toffee flavors
• Medium body with surprisingly refreshing character
• Distinctive barrel-shaped bottle with gold foil
• Vienna-style dark lager brewing tradition

For the best tasting experience, serve slightly warmer than other Mexican beers (around 45°F) in a tulip glass.

Pacifico

Pacifico captures the essence of Mexico’s sun-drenched Pacific coastline in every sip. Born in Mazatlán, Sinaloa in 1900, this pilsner-style lager brings a distinct regional character to the Mexican beer landscape.

Originally brewed by German immigrants, Pacifico remained a local secret until American surfers discovered it in the 1970s, becoming its first international ambassadors.

• Crisp, clean flavor with subtle hop bitterness
• 4.5% ABV with light to medium body
• Iconic yellow label featuring a lighthouse
• Authentic connection to surf culture

For maximum refreshment, serve ice-cold with a light squeeze of lime.

Victoria

Victoria holds the distinguished title of Mexico’s oldest beer brand, first brewed in 1865 in Toluca before finding its home with Grupo Modelo. This Vienna-style lager represents Mexican brewing heritage in its purest form, carrying over 150 years of tradition.

The beer’s deep amber color hints at its rich malt character, with a delicate balance between sweetness and hop bitterness.

• Medium-bodied with honey-like malt sweetness
• 4% ABV with remarkable drinkability
• Distinctive copper color with excellent clarity
• Often considered the most authentic Mexican beer by locals

Serve around 45°F in a traditional glass mug to appreciate its complex malt profile.

Related: Belgian Beer: A 1000-Year Love Story

Dos Equis Lager

Dos Equis Lager became a household name through “The Most Interesting Man in the World” campaign. This crisp, golden pilsner with German brewing roots dates back to 1897 when created by Wilhelm Hasse in Veracruz, Mexico.

Now under Heineken Mexico’s umbrella, Dos Equis delivers a light, clean taste that prioritizes refreshment over complexity.

• Crisp, light-bodied pilsner with 4.2% ABV
• Subtle malt sweetness with minimal hop presence
• Green bottles with the distinctive double-X logo
• Perfect gateway beer into Mexican brewing traditions

Serve ice-cold in a standard pilsner glass with a lime wedge optional.

Dos Equis Amber

Dos Equis Amber offers a more sophisticated counterpart to its lighter sibling. This Vienna-style lager showcases the German brewing influence that shaped Mexican beer culture, with a rich amber hue that hints at its more complex flavor profile.

• Medium-bodied with pronounced caramel and toasted malt notes
• 4.7% ABV with a well-rounded mouthfeel
• Beautiful copper-amber color with excellent clarity
• Exceptional companion to traditional Mexican cuisine

For the best experience, serve at around 45°F in a tulip glass to fully appreciate its aromatic malt character.

Tecate

Tecate embodies the unpretentious spirit of Mexican beer culture. First brewed in 1944 in its namesake city in Baja California, this straightforward pale lager has become Mexico’s quintessential casual drinking beer, now produced by Heineken Mexico.

Known for its distinctive red can, Tecate has cultivated strong associations with Mexican sports, particularly boxing and soccer.

• Light-bodied with subtle grain notes
• 4.5% ABV with high drinkability
• The iconic red can be recognized throughout Mexico
• Perfect for social occasions and outdoor activities

For the authentic experience, serve ice-cold with a salt-rimmed glass and a lime wedge.

Sol

Sol shines as one of Mexico’s most recognizable beers, with a name and bright yellow packaging that evokes the sun itself. Founded in 1899, it began as a working-class alternative to expensive imports, eventually finding its way into Heineken Mexico’s portfolio.

This light lager has expanded globally, becoming particularly popular in the UK, Australia, and throughout Europe.

• Very light body with subtle corn notes
• 4.5% ABV with exceptional crispness
• Distinctive clear bottle with bright yellow label
• Perfect for hot weather and beach days

For maximum refreshment, serve extremely cold with a lime wedge.

Related: The 16 Best German Beer You Should Try Out

Bohemia

Bohemia stands proudly as Mexico’s premium beer offering, embracing European brewing traditions with meticulous attention to quality. Now under Heineken Mexico, this sophisticated lager showcases brewing craftsmanship that sets it apart from most mainstream Mexican beers.

Unlike its light lager compatriots, Bohemia delivers a more complex flavor profile with pronounced European noble hop character.

• Medium-bodied with noticeable hop presence
• 5.3% ABV with exceptional balance
• Distinctive green bottle with gold foil covering
• Available in Pilsner, Oscura, and Weizen varieties

Serve in a proper pilsner glass at around 42°F for optimal enjoyment.

Carta Blanca

Carta Blanca represents an enduring piece of Mexican brewing heritage. First produced in 1890 in Monterrey, this traditional pale lager carries over 130 years of history in every bottle, now continuing its legacy under Heineken Mexico.

Once Mexico’s flagship export beer before Corona’s rise to prominence, Carta Blanca maintains a devoted following, particularly in northern Mexico.

• Clean, crisp profile with subtle grain sweetness
• 4.5% ABV with remarkable consistency
• Classic white and gold label design
• Beloved by traditionalists and beer history enthusiasts

Enjoy well-chilled in a standard pint glass, appreciating its straightforward character.

Indio

Indio has developed a loyal following as Mexico’s alternative dark lager, particularly among younger drinkers and urban communities. Originally called Cuauhtémoc beer when introduced in 1893, it was later renamed Indio after customers commonly referred to it as “the beer with the Indian.”

Now produced by Heineken Mexico, Indio delivers a unique profile with subtle caramel and coffee notes.

• Medium-bodied with pleasant caramel malt sweetness
• 4.1% ABV with remarkable drinkability for a dark beer
• Dark amber color with ruby highlights
• Perfect companion for spicy traditional dishes

Serve at around 45°F to fully appreciate its malt complexity.

Montejo

Montejo brings a distinctive regional character to Mexico’s beer landscape. Born in Yucatán in 1960 as the peninsula’s local pride, this crisp lager embodies the spirit of southeastern Mexico with its balanced flavor, now produced by Grupo Modelo.

While less known internationally, Montejo dominates its home region and represents an important piece of regional brewing heritage.

• Light to medium body with subtle honey-like sweetness
• 4.5% ABV with clean, refreshing finish
• Distinctive blue and silver packaging
• Perfect pairing with Yucatecan cuisine

For an authentic experience, serve well-chilled alongside regional cuisine.

Cerveza Minerva (Craft Beer Highlight)

Cerveza Minerva stands at the forefront of Mexico’s burgeoning craft beer revolution. Founded in 2003 in Guadalajara, this pioneering microbrewery helped transform Mexican beer culture beyond mass-produced lagers into a diverse landscape of creative brewing.

Unlike the industrial giants dominating our list, Minerva produces character-driven beers that prioritize flavor complexity and brewing artistry.

• Bold, distinctive flavors across various styles
• Higher ABV range (typically 5-8%) with fuller body
• Standout varieties include Imperial Tequila Ale and Colonial Stout
• Uses traditional Mexican ingredients in innovative ways

Serve in appropriate glassware at temperatures suitable for each style.

Discover Your Perfect Mexican Pour

Mexico’s beer landscape offers incredible variety from Corona’s global popularity to Bohemia’s sophisticated craftsmanship. Each brand tells a story – centuries-old Victoria, regional Montejo, or innovative Cerveza Minerva. From light, lime-garnished refreshment to complex malt profiles, Mexican brewing traditions provide options for every taste. Distinctive serving styles and temperature recommendations enhance each experience. Next time you’re choosing a Mexican beer, explore beyond familiar options and appreciate the unique character behind each bottle. You’re now ready to navigate the Mexican beer aisle with confidence!

FAQs