Gin & Bear It

Cinco de Mayo marks the beginning of spring, at least here in the Rockies, and the beginning of beer season. Spring and summer without beer just wouldn’t be the same. It’s the beverage of choice at baseball games, picnics, barbeques and many more warm-weather events. Since Cinco de Mayo is the marker I use to declare the official start of beer season it seems only appropriate to share some of my favorite Mexican brews. Beer was introduced to Mexico long ago through European visitors, much like the French who are the reason for Cinco de Mayo. Beer has a history of variety and quality in Mexico and today there are roughly 20 breweries operating throughout the country. Below is a countdown of my five favorite Mexican beers, perfect for celebrating Cinco de Mayo and kicking off beer season:

5.  Dos XX
Before you even ask – No, Corona is not on my list! I know that Corona has numbed you with hours of advertising featuring innumerable picturesque beaches and images that all strangely resemble quartered limes, but give something new and different a try. Dos XX is a great lager that has a slightly sweet flavor. Great ice cold, this crisp, refreshing beer is a great alternative to Corona. 4.5% Alcohol

4.  Tecate
Mostly found in cans this brew is also a lager that oddly resembles PBR in flavor, price and style. Great for a barbeque, Tecate is light and cheap; a great drink-all-afternoon beer. 4.5% Alcohol

3.  Bohemia
Bohemia is a European-style lager, meaning it has a little more bite than typical Mexican lagers. This beer is crisp and easy-drinking yet offers a complex flavor. 5.3% Alcohol

2.  Pacifico Clara
A light beer brewed in the traditional Pilsner style, Pacifico is bigger than Corona or Tecate with a slightly bitter finish. I consider this my favorite light Mexican beer; I especially enjoy how well this beer goes with shots of aged tequila. 4.5% Alcohol

1.  Negra Modelo
Negra Modelo is a premium Mexican brew that is smooth and full-bodied with a malty flavor. It is a dark beer that compliments spicy and hearty foods nicely. No lime required with this beer! 5.3% Alcohol

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