10 Classic Mexican Beers Ranked Worst To Best - Mashed

Mexican beer, often referred to as cerveza or chela, is a beloved choice for beer enthusiasts around the globe. This term encompasses both lagers and ales brewed in Mexico, characterized by the incorporation of corn or flaked maize and a brewing tradition that traces back to German and Austrian immigrants who arrived in Texas and Mexico during the 19th century. The resulting beers offer a taste that is familiar to fans of pilsners and German brews, while still boasting their own unique flavors. Mexican beers come in various styles, including light or pale lagers, such as Pacífico Clara and Modelo Especial; Vienna-style or amber lagers, like Dos Equis Ambar Especial and Cerveza Victoria; as well as popular dark beers like negras and dunkels, including Modelo Negra. Despite the wide range of colors and flavors available, all these varieties fall under the lager category, making them both approachable and enjoyable. To provide insight into these classic Mexican beers, I undertook a tasting journey to rank them from least to most favorable. The evaluation criteria focused on overall flavor and drinkability. ¡Salud!

Starting at the bottom of the list is Cerveza Superior, an American-style lager that failed to impress. Its aroma was reminiscent of dampness and a pet-like scent, not exactly appetizing. The flavor was puzzling; while it had a light mouthfeel due to its carbonation, it lacked the bitterness to balance its bready sweetness, leaving it feeling softer than a typical lager. The fruity notes were off-putting, with one taster likening it to a "natural fruit roll-up," a description that aptly captures its peculiar tang.

Next up is Corona Extra, arguably one of the most recognizable Mexican beers. Despite its popularity, the flavor did not win me over. Upon opening the bottle, I was greeted by a skunky aroma, likely a consequence of its clear packaging. Nevertheless, Corona Extra does offer a crisp and refreshing sensation, with its light body and slight bitterness complementing its carbonation. It pairs well with food, particularly Baja-style fish tacos. While many enjoy it with a lime wedge for added acidity, I opted to taste it straight. While I would drink it if no other options were available, I wouldn't seek it out specifically.

In the eighth spot is Dos Equis Lager Especial. This beer is not typically my first choice, but I would likely choose it over Corona if the cooler was limited. The aroma was similar to Cerveza Superior, with a damp note. However, the flavor profile is more balanced, presenting a golden pilsner that combines malty and crisp elements. While this balance may appeal to some, it also renders the beer somewhat unexciting. Still, its neutrality makes it a safe selection for gatherings where guests may have varying tastes.

Modelo Negra claims the seventh position, showcasing the German and Austrian influences in Mexican brewing. Although Modelo is often associated with lighter beers, this Munich Dunkel-style variant is deep brown in color and offers a flavor profile rich in caramel and malt. Surprisingly, it drinks like a lager, maintaining lightness despite its dark appearance. With a relatively low alcohol by volume (ABV) of 5.3%, Modelo Negra allows drinkers to enjoy multiple bottles without feeling overwhelmed.

At number six is Dos Equis Ambar Especial, a Vienna-style lager that embodies the qualities expected from this category. Its warm amber color is inviting, and it features a delightful blend of malt and caramel flavors, finishing with a balance between crispness and creaminess. Vienna-style lagers tend to be more appealing, offering a richer taste while still being easy to drink.