Grupo Modelo, founded in 1925, is the largest beer producer in Mexico, and as of 2008 was the 6 largest worldwide. Grupo Modelo owns 7 breweries throughout Mexico. You have seen Grupo’s brands — Corona, Victoria, Pacifico, Negra Modelo, Modelo especial, Modelo Light, Estrella, and Leon. For the first time in the US, Negra Modelo and Modelo especial will be hitting tap handles.
Negra Modelo was first introduced in 1926 solely on draft in Mexico. Brewed by Austrian immigrants, Negra is a Munich Dunkel Lager at 5.4 % ABV. Dunkel lagers originated in Bavaria, and are brewed with a generous portion of Munich malts. They are light brown or ruby in color, and are easy drinking without being overwhelming. You’ve seen Negra Modelo in short bottles with gold labels.
Modelo especial was first introduced in bottles in 1925. This lager is stylistically classified with other popular lagers, such as Budweiser, Coors, and Red Stripe. As of the end of 2008, Modelo especial was the #3 imported beer in the US.
As of today, both these beers will be available on draft. Cesar Martinez Guzman, brewmaster of Grupo Modelo was on hand last night at Taco Mac’s “The Fred” all the way from Mexico to celebrate the launch. Negra Modelo, and Modelo especial will be available year round from now on. Just in time for Cinco de Mayo…
