Spirit of MEXICO M e x i c a n B ee r
By Jamie Stafford
Mexican Beer :
S u mm e r yearround
A gave isn ’ t the only hot commodity coming out of Mexico these days . In fact , Mexican beer ’ s popularity predates both tequila and mezcal by decades . Often seen as a refreshing summer option , the characteristic lighter qualities of the category make it an appealing entry into the world of beer for those less inclined to hoppy IPAs or thick and heavy stouts .
Mexican beer is an interesting case — often , its definition is self-explanatory : beer imported from Mexico . However , the popular Mexican-style lager beer is also brewed by craft breweries within the U . S . No matter its origins , this category is a mainstay in the mainstream , enduring as the top beer import in the country .
Sun King Brewery , based in Indianapolis , is one craft brewery making a splash in the Mexican lager category . There are various opinions on what exactly constitutes a “ Mexican lager ,” but most agree that it should be light in color and taste , with a crisp finish . “ Light in body , flavor and almost no bitterness makes this style of beer the most approachable in the category ,” says Co-founder Dave Colt . This accessibility shows in the popularity of the brewery ’ s two Mexican-style lagers . “ It is in our top five brands that we pro-
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