With spring in full swing and summer right around the corner, that means we’re getting more and more days where we can enjoy a nice cold beer in the sun. And on those hot days, nothing hits quite like a great Mexican lager.
Mexican lagers are a type of lager known for their light bodies, crisp flavor, and small hint of sweetness. This is a unique style, since most Mexican lagers are brewed with flaked maize, though brewers can put their own spin on the brew.
So, looking ahead to Cinco de Mayo, spring, summer, and general good times, let’s break down the best Mexican lagers that aren’t Corona.
5 Best Mexican Lagers that Aren’t Corona
Here are my favorite Mexican lagers that aren’t Corona, and you should be able to find these just about anywhere you live.
Pacifco
Pacifico is my all-time favorite Mexican lager. Brewed in Mazatlan, Pacifico nails everything that Mexican lagers embody: crisp flavor, light body, refreshing flavor, and easy-drinking ABV (4.4-4.5%). Whenever I imagine eating tacos on the beach in Mexico, I have a Pacifico in my hand. It’s about the same cost as Corona, maybe slightly more depending on where you live, but it’s much, much better.
Tecate
If you’re looking for an affordable Mexican lager, go with Tecate. Based out of Tecate in the Baja California region, Tecate has a fuller flavor than Corona and Pacifico, boasting stronger malt flavors and sweetness. It’s pretty low ABV as well (4.6%), though a bit higher than other options.
Modelo
Modelo Especial has been around for over 100 years, which is a testament to its quality. At just 4.4%, it’s another light-drinking Mexican lager with nice malty flavor and sweetness. My only gripe is that the foil on the bottles can get flaky and make a mess. Outside of that, Modelo is a solid choice, as is the delicious Modelo Negra.
Dos Equis
I normally don’t drink Dos Equis, but when I do, I drink the Amber lager. Dos Equis Amber Lager is technically the original style (with Especial, the Corona competitor, getting released later). As with any amber beer, expect a reddish color, solid malt flavor, and little bit more body than you’d get with Pacifico or Tecate.
Bohemia
I rarely come across Bohemia Clasica, a 4.7% Pilsner-esque Mexican lager, but it’s a treat when I do see it. Bohemia is closer to a Vienna lager than other Mexican lagers on this list, which makes sense given its name, so expect more bitterness and less sweet maltiness. If you do find this beer and haven’t had it before, give it a try.
Comparing Mexican Lagers at a Glance
Here’s a quick comparison of these Mexican lagers (including Corona).
| Beer | ABV | Flavor Profile | Origin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corona Especial | 4.6% | Light-bodied, crisp, subtle sweetness | Mexico City |
| Pacifico | 4.5% | Bright, clean, crisp | Mazatlán |
| Modelo Especial | 4.4% | Slightly fuller than most light lagers | Mexico City |
| Dos Equis Amber | 4.7% | Rich caramel and toasted malt | Monterrey |
| Bohemia | 4.7% | Fuller-bodied, leans Vienna lager | Monterrey |
| Tecate | 4.6% | Light, straightforward, clean finish | Tecate, Baja California |
Other Great Mexican Lagers
If you’re looking for a different Mexican lager with tons of character, check out your local craft breweries! This style is a classic and immensely popular in the United States, so odds are a craft brewer near you brews Mexi lagers. What’s best is that craft Mexican lagers tend to have really tasty malt flavors that just don’t come through in mass-produced beers like Modelo or Pacifico.
One trend that some brewers follow is adding salt and lime flavors to the beer, which…I don’t enjoy. But, if that’s something you’re interested in, I highly suggest trying a beer like Stone Brewing’s Buenaveza.
Why Did You Exclude Corona from this List?
If you like Corona, that’s totally fine. But I don’t like it, especially when there are so many great alternatives at the same price point. Without getting too deep into why I don’t like Corona, the main reasons are:
- Intentionally skunked beer
- Poor flavor for the price point
- Requires a lime to taste good (if you have to add something to the beer, it’s not a good beer)
And if you do like Corona, please give other Mexican lagers a try. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
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