All About Modelo Beer: The Top-Selling US Beer Brand

Discover the rich history and diverse flavors of Modelo beer, from its origins in Mexico to its popularity worldwide. Learn about the brand's different varieties and learn more about this beloved brand.

November 4, 2024

Few beers have captured the hearts of both casual drinkers and beer connoisseurs alike quite like Modelo beer has. From its humble beginnings in Mexico to its rise as one of the most beloved beer brands worldwide, Modelo has become synonymous with quality, craftsmanship and a rich brewing tradition. Whether you're enjoying a crisp, refreshing Modelo Especial with a lightly hoppy character or savoring the bold, malty flavors of Modelo Negra, this brand offers something for every palate.

In this story, we’ll uncover the fascinating history of Modelo, explore its wide variety of offerings, and provide a detailed taste guide to help you fully appreciate every sip of this iconic beer.

History of Modelo Beer

The story of Modelo beer is one steeped in tradition and cultural significance, tracing its roots back to the early 20th century. Over the decades, this beloved Mexican beer has evolved from a local favorite into a global icon, known for its quality, distinct taste and the proud heritage it represents.

The journey of Modelo's growth highlights the brand's perseverance and commitment to excellence, which lays the foundation for its success in both domestic and international markets.

Founded in Mexico in 1925

Modelo's journey began in 1925 when the first bottle was brewed and bottled in Mexico City. Established as a premium beer from the start, Modelo quickly gained recognition for its rich flavor and expert craftsmanship.

Its early years saw Modelo rise as a favorite in Mexican households, celebrated for its balanced taste that perfectly complemented the country’s vibrant cuisine and lively social gatherings. By establishing itself as a superior Mexican beer, Modelo began to pave the way for its future as a global player.

Acquired by Grupo Modelo in 1935

In 1935, Modelo became part of Grupo Modelo, a prominent Mexican brewing company. The acquisition marked a turning point for the brand, fueling its growth and expanding its production capabilities. Grupo Modelo brought enhanced distribution networks and resources to allow Modelo to increase its reach across Mexico.

As the company built its reputation for quality and consistency, Modelo Negra and Modelo Especial, two standout varieties, began to solidify their places as the flagship offerings of the brand.

Expansion to International Markets

After achieving widespread success in Mexico, Modelo began its journey into international markets, starting with its introduction to the United States in the late 20th century. The beer’s growing popularity among U.S. consumers, particularly among the Hispanic population, helped it gain a foothold in the competitive beer market.

Modelo’s commitment to maintaining its Mexican roots while appealing to a broader audience contributed to its meteoric rise. Today, Modelo is the best-selling beer in the U.S. and continues to expand its presence worldwide.

Varieties Of Modelo Beer

Modelo offers a diverse range of beer varieties, each crafted with unique flavors and characteristics that appeal to a wide audience of beer lovers. From light, crisp lagers to rich, malty brews, Modelo's portfolio showcases the brand’s versatility and commitment to quality. Below are the most popular varieties of Modelo beer and what makes each of them stand out.

Modelo Especial

Modelo Especial is the flagship lager of the Modelo lineup, renowned for its light, golden color and crisp, clean taste. This Mexican Pilsner beer features a well-balanced flavor with a slight bitterness that complements its subtle sweetness, making it a perfect pairing for a wide range of foods. With its refreshing qualities and moderate alcohol content, Modelo Especial is ideal for casual drinking and warm-weather gatherings.

ABV: 4.4%
IBU: 18
Beer Style: Pilsner-Style Lager

Modelo Negra

For those who prefer a darker and richer beer, Modelo Negra offers a smooth, full-bodied experience. This Munich-style dunkel lager has a deep amber hue and delivers complex flavors, including roasted malt, caramel and a hint of sweetness. Despite its richness, Modelo Negra remains remarkably a smooth-drinking beer. It’s a favorite for those seeking a flavorful yet easy-to-drink beer that pairs well with heartier dishes.

ABV: 5.4%
IBU: 19
Beer Style: Munich Dunkel-Style Lager

Modelo Chelada

Modelo Chelada is a unique and refreshing twist on traditional beer, which offers a blend of savory, tangy and sometimes spicy flavors. Inspired by the chelada, Mexico's popular beer cocktail, Modelo Chelada combines Modelo Especial with lime, salt and sometimes additional ingredients like tomato juice or tamarind. There are various Chelada flavors, such as the Limón y Sal, Tamarindo Picante and Mango y Chile, providing a range of refreshing options for those who enjoy bold and flavorful drinks.

ABV: 3.5%
Beer Style: Michelada-Style

Modelo Oro

Modelo Oro is one of the brand's newer offerings, created for those seeking a lighter beer with fewer calories. This premium light beer has a crisp, smooth taste with a light golden hue and an ABV of 4%. Modelo Oro delivers a well-balanced flavor profile without sacrificing quality, making it an excellent choice for those who want a lighter option that still carries the signature Modelo taste.

ABV: 4.0%
Beer Style: Premium Light Lager

Modelo Spiked Aguas Frescas

Modelo Spiked Aguas Frescas is a bold, refreshing blend that infuses the vibrant flavors of traditional Mexican aguas frescas with a kick of alcohol. This spiked beverage features real fruit juice and a smooth, crisp finish, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and refreshment. With a light, invigorating taste and just the right amount of alcohol, Modelo Spiked Aguas Frescas is a fun, flavorful choice for those seeking a twist on classic flavors with an extra edge.

ABV: 4.5%

Taste Guide For Modelo Beer Varieties

When it comes to enjoying Modelo beers, understanding the distinct flavor profiles is key to enhancing your tasting experience. Each variety of Modelo beers brings its own unique characteristics. By exploring these flavors, along with serving tips and ideal food pairings, you’ll discover how to savor every sip of these exceptional brews.

Flavor Profiles Of Each Variety

Modelo Especial: Crisp, mild bitterness and balanced sweetness
Modelo Negra: Smooth, roasted malt and caramelized undertones
Modelo Chelada: Savory, tart and spicy with a refreshing finish
Modelo Oro: Smooth, light-bodied and mildly sweet with a hint of floral notes
Modelo Spiked Aguas Frescas: Real fruit flavors balanced by a crisp, refreshing finish with a hint of sweetness

How To Serve Modelo Beers

Serving Modelo beers correctly enhances their flavors and overall drinking experience. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:

1. Glassware: Choose the right glass to showcase the beer’s characteristics. A full-flavored pilsner beer glass or a tall, clear mug works well for Modelo Especial and Modelo Oro, allowing you to appreciate their clarity and carbonation. For Modelo Negra, consider using a snifter or a tulip glass to concentrate its rich aromas.

2. Temperature: Serve Modelo beers quite cold, typically between 35°F to 40°F. This temperature range allows the flavors to be refreshing without dulling the taste.

3. Pouring Technique: Pour the beer at a slight angle into the glass, then straighten the glass as it fills to create a moderate head. A good head helps release the beer's aromas and enhances the drinking experience.

4. Tasting: Before taking a sip, take a moment to appreciate the aromas. Swirl the glass gently to release the scents, then inhale deeply. This step can reveal subtle notes that might be missed otherwise.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Proper food pairing not only enhances the flavors of Modelo beers but also creates a well-rounded dining experience that showcases the unique characteristics of each variety. Modelo's lager offerings are quite versatile when it comes to pairing with food, so here are some food pairing suggestions, including Mexican dishes, for Modelo beers:

1. Modelo Especial

Tacos: The crispness of Modelo Especial pairs perfectly with various taco fillings, such as grilled chicken, shrimp or fish. The beer’s mild bitterness complements the spices and acidity of fresh salsa.
Ceviche: The refreshing qualities of this light lager enhance the citrusy and zesty flavors of ceviche, making for a delightful seafood pairing.
Pizza: The lightness of Modelo Especial pairs well with pizza, especially those topped with fresh vegetables or margarita-style to balance the cheese and tomato flavors.

2. Modelo Negra

Grilled Meats: The smooth and roasted malt flavors of Modelo Negra work well with grilled meats like steak or pork, as they enhance the smoky notes and richness of the dishes.
Mushroom Risotto: The caramelized undertones of this dark lager complement the earthy flavors of mushrooms, making it an excellent match for creamy risotto.

3. Modelo Chelada

Spicy Dishes: The savory, tart and spicy profile of Modelo Chelada makes it a fantastic accompaniment to spicy foods, such as buffalo wings or spicy shrimp tacos. The beer’s refreshing finish helps balance the heat.
Guacamole and Chips: This pairing is perfect for casual gatherings. The zesty and savory notes of Modelo Chelada complement the creaminess of guacamole, making for a satisfying snack.

4. Modelo Oro

Light Salads: The smooth, light-bodied nature of Modelo Oro pairs well with crisp salads, particularly those featuring citrus or fruity dressings, enhancing the freshness of the dish.
Grilled Vegetables: The mild sweetness and floral notes of this lager complement the smoky flavors of grilled vegetables, thus, it can be considered as an ideal backyard barbecue beverage packed in standard 12 oz beer bottles.

5. Modelo Spiked Aguas Frescas

Grilled Shrimp Skewers: The smoky, charred shrimp contrasts with the sweet and tangy flavors of the spiked aguas frescas for a balanced pairing.
Spicy Street Corn (Elote): The creamy, spicy, and tangy notes of Mexican street corn are a great match with the fruity freshness of the beverage.

Ingredients Used In Modelo Beers

While each Modelo beer style boasts its own distinct flavor and character, the foundation of these brews lies in their unique ingredient profiles. From the quality of the water to the types of malt, hops, yeast and adjuncts, these components work harmoniously to create the refreshing and satisfying experiences that Modelo beers are known for.

1. Water

The primary ingredient in all beers, the quality and mineral content of the water can significantly influence the flavor profile. Modelo beers use purified water, contributing to their clean and crisp taste.

2. Malt

Pale Malt: This is the base malt used in most Modelo beers, providing the sugars needed for fermentation and a light color.
Caramel/Crystal Malt: Used in darker varieties like Modelo Negra, this malt adds sweetness and rich, caramelized flavors that contribute to the beer’s color and mouthfeel.
Barley Malt: Barley malt is essential in brewing, as it provides fermentable sugars and influences the overall flavor and body of the beer.
Cereal Malts: Cereals, made from grains such as corn or rice, are often included to lighten the body and flavor of the beer while enhancing fermentation. They are particularly useful in brewing lighter styles.

3. Hops

Modelo beers typically use a blend of hop varieties to achieve their balanced bitterness and aromatic profiles. Common hops include Saaz and Hallertau, known for their floral and earthy notes.

4. Yeast

Modelo beers are brewed using lager yeast, which ferments at lower temperatures, resulting in clean, crisp flavors. This bottom-fermenting yeast plays a crucial role in the fermentation process and converts sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide.

Alternatives to Modelo Beers

As you explore the diverse world of beers, you may find yourself looking for options that provide a similar experience to Modelo’s renowned varieties. Whether you're seeking something lighter and crisper or richer and more robust, there are numerous alternatives that capture the essence of what makes Modelo beers appealing.

Below, are some alternatives to Modelo beers, featuring similar styles and flavor profiles:

Pacifico Clara: This Mexican lager is light and refreshing, with a slightly hoppy flavor and a crisp finish, a great alternative to Modelo Especial.
Corona Extra: Known for its mild flavor and refreshing qualities, Corona Extra is a popular choice that pairs well with lime and complements light dishes like seafood and tacos.
Dos Equis Lager Especial: With a light, crisp taste and a mild hop bitterness, Dos Equis Lager is an excellent option for those who enjoy Modelo Especial, offering a similar refreshing experience.
Estrella Jalisco: This refreshing lager offers a light body with a touch of sweetness and a clean finish which make it a suitable substitute for Modelo Oro.
Victoria: Victoria is a darker Mexican lager with a malty sweetness and toasty flavor profile, providing a unique yet complementary alternative to Modelo Negra.
Sol: Sol is a bright and easy-drinking lager with a light-hop character and slight sweetness, an excellent choice for those seeking a refreshing alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Modelo real Mexican beer?

Yes, Modelo is a real Mexican beer, brewed in Mexico City by Grupo Modelo since 1925. It embodies traditional brewing methods and authentic Mexican flavor profiles.

Is Modelo the #1 beer in America?

Yes, Modelo Especial has recently become the top-selling beer in the U.S. by dollar sales, surpassing traditional leaders like Bud Light, which highlights Modelo’s growing popularity among consumers.

What category of beer is Modelo?

Modelo is categorized as a pale lager, specifically a Mexican lager.

Is Modelo high-end?

Modelo is generally considered a premium lager rather than a high-end beer. It is well-regarded for its quality and flavor but is widely accessible and competitively priced.

Is Modelo better than Corona?

Whether Modelo is better than Corona largely depends on personal taste preferences. Modelo, especially Negra Modelo, offers a richer, maltier flavor, while Corona is lighter and crisper, often enjoyed with lime. Both brands have their loyal fanbases and distinct characteristics.

Do Mexicans like Modelo beer?

Yes, Modelo beer is quite popular in Mexico and is favored by many Mexicans. It is one of the leading beer brands in the country, known for its quality and flavor.

When did Modelo come to the US?

Modelo beer first entered the U.S. market in the 1980s. Initially imported as a specialty beer, it gained popularity throughout the years and became one of the leading Mexican beer brands in the United States, particularly after Constellation Brands in Chicago, USA acquired the rights to import and distribute it in the mid-1990s.

What is the most popular Mexican beer?

The most popular Mexican beer is Corona Extra, known for its light, crisp taste and often served with a wedge of lime. Other widely recognized brands include Modelo Especial, Pacifico and Negra Modelo, each with its own loyal following. However, Corona consistently ranks as one of the top-selling Mexican beers both in Mexico and internationally.

Is Pacífico owned by Modelo?

Yes, Pacífico is owned by Grupo Modelo, which is a subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch InBev. Grupo Modelo produces and distributes several well-known Mexican beer brands, including Pacífico, Corona and Modelo.

Can Modelo beer get you drunk?

Yes, Modelo beer can get you drunk if consumed in sufficient quantities. It has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of about 4.4% to 5.4%, depending on the specific variety (e.g., Modelo Especial vs. Negra Modelo).

What is the Modelo beer song?

The "Modelo Beer Song" featured in the brand's modern commercials is a remix of Ennio Morricone's "The Ecstasy of Gold" from the classic film The Good, The Bad and The Ugly. The song emphasizes the brand's identity and its association with moments of celebration and enjoyment.

When did Modelo Beer come out?

Modelo beer was first brewed in 1925 by Grupo Modelo in Mexico City.

How long is Modelo beer good for?

Modelo beer typically has a shelf life of 6 to 9 months from the date of packaging when stored properly. For the best quality and taste, it’s recommended to consume it before the expiration date printed on the bottle or can.

What kind of beer is Modelo Negra?

Modelo Negra is a Munich-style Dunkel lager, known for its rich flavor and dark amber color.

Is Modelo a craft beer?

Modelo is not considered a craft beer; it is a mass-produced lager brewed by Grupo Modelo in Mexico, known for its broad distribution and popularity.

Is Modelo especial a strong beer?

Modelo Especial has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of around 4.4%, which means it is a light- to medium-strength lager rather than a strong beer.

How many calories does Modelo beer have?

A 12-ounce serving of Modelo Especial beer contains approximately 143-145 calories, while Modelo Negra has about 180 calories. Both are relatively moderate choices among beers.

How many carbs are in Modelo beer?

Modelo Especial contains about 13 grams of carbohydrates per 12-ounce serving (1 gram protein), while Modelo Negra has around 18 grams of carbohydrates.

How many bottles are typically included in a pack of Modelo beer?

A standard pack of Modelo beer usually contains six 12-ounce oz bottles. However, you can also find larger packs, such as 12 or 24 bottles, depending on the retailer.

Modelo: A Mexican Classic

While craft beer snobs might scoff at the thought of imbibing a mass-produced macro lager, their merits cannot be denied. For one thing, brewing these premium lagers on such a massive scale is an incredible feat of scientific engineering, as clean lagers such as these are known for their exacting brewing standards. One minor flaw, and your entire batch is ruined.

Of course, storied lager brands, such as Modelo, have been brewing for generations, so, by this point, they have it down to an exact science.

Modelo and Modelo Negra, in particular, go down incredibly smoothly and, when paired with some chips and salsa or a smoky burrito at your local Mexican restaurant, taste better than almost any beer in the world.

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