Mexican beers come from a long beer brewing tradition. What would surprise most people is that they are mostly influenced by German and Austrian techniques. These were introduced by immigrants in the 19th century, resulting in many of Mexico’s top beer brands still using these techniques today.
Now that Mexican beer is so readily available in the US and all over the world,
it’s more important than ever to know which ones are the best!
Best Mexican Beer – The Top 15
1. Tecate
We ranked Tecate at the top of our list because it is the best mass-market Mexican beer by far.
It has a delicious blend of malt and hops, and as far as pale lagers go, it’s definitely not bland, thanks to its Vienna lager-style history.
With a 4.6% ABV, it has an average strength as well, which makes it really easy to drink.
2. Negra Modelo
This is thanks to a slower brewing process, which also gives it the slightly-stronger-than-average 5.4% ABV.
Definitely give this a shot if you come across it. It’s particularly nice if you want a darker beer to go with heavier Mexican dishes.
3. Victoria
It’s not as easily found outside of Mexico as some of its more popular export competitors, but it continues to gain in popularity.
At 4.0% ABV, it is one of the lower strength options that will suit a lot of people.
4. Bohemia
With an ABV of 4.7%, it is very much in the average range on this list.
5. Corona Extra
Another interesting fact – Corona is popular in Spain, where it is marketed as Coronita as a mark of respect to the Spanish royal family. [1]
At 4.5% ABV, it’s at an average strength that is very refreshing in the summer.
6. Dos Equis
It has a lot of similarity to German Oktoberfest-style beers and has an ABV of 4.7%.[2]
It has grown tremendously in popularity outside of Mexico in recent years due to the advertising campaign with “The Most Interesting Man In The World.” Also, if your Spanish is weak and you couldn’t tell the connection – “Dos Equis” means “Two X’s,” the brand’s name.
7. Sol
It’s an ideal refreshment on a hot summer day and will go well with pretty much any food.
The 4.5% ABV is also pretty much in the average range.
8. Modelo Especial
With 4.5% ABV, it has become very much in demand on the American market. [3]
9. Pacifico
As the name implies, this beer has become one of the biggest Mexican export beers on the West Coast of the US. For this golden lager, we strongly suggest adding that famous Mexican slice of lime.
With 4.5% ABV, it’s a suitable strength for most beer drinkers and – like most light lagers, especially Mexican ones – it’s ideal for a hot summer day.
10. Noche Buena
With an ABV of 5.9%, it’s more of a German-style Winterbock that is also a lot richer in taste, and is a very popular option among Mexican beers during the Christmas holiday season.
“Noche Buena” means “a good night,” which you’re sure to have as long as you drink this heavier ABV beer in moderation! 5.9% can sneak up on you, so go easy.
11. Leon
You do get hints of that style, but if you’re expecting something more full-bodied, you should stick with the Modelo.
The ABV is an average 4.5%.
12. Indio
Slightly more malty-tasting, you will also get a hint of caramel that makes it quite unique.
Indio also has a mild sweetness that has become very popular with a lot of beer aficionados out there and can be a nice beer for variety if you are deep in repeating similar-tasting Mexican lagers.
13. Carta Blanca
At 4.0% ABV, it is weaker than most, even the Indio, and that also makes it a little less flavorful too. However, for those who just want a fresh pale lager, it’s still a great option.
Remember too that for long days barbecuing outdoors, or after-workout beers, or any other beer-drinking scenario where “refreshingness” is the key aspect of what you’re looking for (or the ability to drink in large quantity without getting too drunk), beers like this are perfect.
14. Estrella
It’s also the only beer on this list that’s not actually Mexican in origin, as it comes from Barcelona in Spain.
Still, it’s a great option and is very common throughout Europe. [4]
15. Montejo
At 4.5% ABV, it’s of average strength, and there isn’t a huge amount to report on the flavor. But it is still quite a nice drink when you just want a little refreshment.
As you can see, we have put in a lot of “hard and grueling” work outside of office hours to come up with this list of the best Mexican brews. What is interesting is how many of them follow very traditional German brewing techniques, which adds to the appeal.
“Historically, the Mexican beer industry has been greatly influenced by German and Austrian immigrants.”
– Jose Ruiz
Final Thoughts on the Best Mexican Beer
They have some of the best beers in the world, and the country is exporting increasing numbers of top-ranked (but less popular) craft beer products all over.
It hasn’t quite outstripped the Tequila export market… yet.
There is quite a wide range of aromas available, so go ahead and give some of our favorite recommendations a try. These Mexican beer brands will be a great choice for your next party, BBQ or Cinco de Mayo celebration. Also, if you can’t find any of the beers in the article at your local bar or liquor store, check out or link below for online stores where you can order almost any type of beer.
Gracias!