Mexican Beer: Which to Buy

Mexican beer is one of the biggest parts of our Doraville store. Modelo Especial has become one of the best-selling beers in America, and we carry it in every size from a single can to the big 32-ounce bottle.

The everyday lagers

• Modelo Especial. A full-flavored lager, a little richer than Corona. The one most people ask for.
• Corona Extra. Light and clean, in the clear bottle. The classic with a wedge of lime.
• Pacifico. From Mazatlan, on Mexico's Pacific coast, since 1900. Crisp and light, a favorite at the beach.
• Tecate. From the town of Tecate in Baja California. Light and cheap, the classic can for a cookout.
• Dos Equis Lager. Smooth and easy, a good middle ground.

The ones with more flavor

• Victoria. First brewed in 1865 and Mexico's oldest beer brand. An amber Vienna-style lager, a little sweet and toasty.
• Corona Familiar. Made for the family table. Fuller and more malty than Corona Extra.
• Modelo Negra. A dark lager in the Munich style, with caramel notes. Great with grilled meat and mole.

The big bottles

The 32-ounce bottle is called a caguama in Mexico, and it is how many families buy beer for the table. We carry Modelo, Corona Familiar, Pacifico and Victoria in caguamas.

And the cheladas

Modelo Chelada comes ready-mixed in a can: beer with tomato, lime and salt, in flavors from classic to mango and spicy pineapple.

What to buy

For a party, buy Modelo or Corona in the 12-pack, plus a few caguamas for the table. If you want something with more flavor, try Victoria or Negra Modelo.