Mexico is renowned for its vibrant culture, rich history, and, of course, its exceptional food and drink. While tequila and mezcal are often the first drinks that come to mind, the country’s beer scene is quickly gaining international recognition—thanks to the rise of craft beer, or cervezas artesanales. Mexican craft beer is bringing new flavors and creativity to the brewing world, giving beer lovers the opportunity to experience the country’s bold and diverse range of brews.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the world of Mexican craft beers, uncovering the passion behind their creation and the unique characteristics that make them a must-try for beer enthusiasts.
The Mexican Craft Beer Revolution
Though Mexico has long been known for its mass-produced lagers—like Corona, Modelo, and Pacifico—the craft beer scene has grown rapidly in recent years. The movement began in the early 2000s, inspired by the global craft beer revolution, and has since blossomed into a thriving industry. Today, there are over 600 craft breweries scattered across the country, each putting its own spin on traditional brewing practices while experimenting with new and exciting flavors.
Mexican craft brewers are not just focused on making great beer—they’re deeply committed to sustainability, using locally sourced ingredients and creating innovative brews that reflect Mexico’s diverse culinary heritage. From tropical fruit-infused IPAs to bold stouts made with cacao, the possibilities are endless when it comes to Mexican craft beer.
Popular Mexican Craft Beer Styles
Mexican craft beers come in many forms, with a variety of styles reflecting both traditional and modern influences. Here are some of the most popular Mexican craft beer styles that you should definitely try:
Mexican IPA (India Pale Ale)
Known for its vibrant hop character and bold bitterness, Mexican IPAs are quickly gaining popularity. With citrus, pine, and tropical fruit flavors, these IPAs are perfect for those who enjoy bold, hop-forward beers. Local brewers like Cervecería de Colima and Cerveza 5 de Mayo are known for their innovative IPAs.
Mexican Stout
Dark, rich, and full of roasted malt flavor, Mexican stouts are often brewed with unique ingredients like coffee, chocolate, and even chili peppers. Cerveza Cucapá and Cerveza Calavera are some of the breweries crafting these smooth, bold stouts that are perfect for sipping after a meal.
Lager and Pilsner
While Mexican craft breweries experiment with a wide range of styles, lagers and pilsners remain a staple. These light, refreshing beers are perfect for hot weather and pair wonderfully with Mexican cuisine. Brands like Baja Brewing Co. and Cerveza Norte produce some of the best craft lagers in Mexico.
Saison and Wheat Beers
Mexican brewers are also embracing Belgian-inspired styles like saison and wheat beers. These brews are typically light, effervescent, and packed with fruity and spicy notes. Cerveza La Chingona and Cervecería Patito are excellent examples of Mexican breweries making these refreshing beers.
Fruit Beers
Given Mexico’s tropical climate and abundance of exotic fruits, it’s no surprise that fruit-infused craft beers have become popular. From mango and pineapple IPAs to lime and hibiscus wheat beers, these beers offer a refreshing twist on traditional styles. Cerveza Rámuri and cervezas mexicanas* are just a few of the breweries experimenting with fruit-based brews.
Unique Ingredients and Flavors in Mexican Craft Beers
One of the most exciting things about Mexican craft beer is the way brewers incorporate locally sourced ingredients to create unique flavors. While malt, hops, and yeast form the backbone of any beer, Mexican craft brewers often use ingredients that give their beers a distinctively local twist. Some of these include:
Agave: Often used in tequila production, agave is also making its way into craft beers. Some brewers are using agave syrup to add sweetness, while others are experimenting with agave-infused beers for a unique flavor.
Chili Peppers: A staple in Mexican cuisine, chili peppers are frequently used to add heat and spice to beers. Whether it’s the mild and tangy flavor of a jalapeño or the fiery kick of a habanero, chili peppers are creating a buzz in Mexican craft beer.
Tropical Fruits: Mango, papaya, and pineapple are some of the most popular fruits used in Mexican craft beer. These fruits lend a sweet, juicy profile that pairs well with hoppy or malty brews.
Cacao: Known for its use in Mexican chocolate, cacao is also finding its way into craft stouts and porters, adding a rich, deep flavor to the beers.
Why Mexican Craft Beer is Worth Trying
What sets Mexican craft beer apart from other beer cultures is its combination of passion, creativity, and cultural influences. Mexican brewers are constantly pushing the boundaries of what beer can be, experimenting with new ingredients and techniques that reflect the country’s dive.
