In The Cooler: Modelo’s 5 Beers

Introducing our new article series: In The Cooler, where we share insights about our hottest brands.

Modelo Especial was first brewed by Grupo Modelo in 1925 in Tacuba, a northwest neighborhood in Mexico City. Within a few years, it was mainly introduced to the US during Prohibition, when people would cross the border to drink alcohol.

Fast forward a 100 years later: Modelo is still brewed in Mexico and imported into the United States by Constellation Brands – which includes Corona and Pacifico.

While extremely popular in Mexico, Modelo Especial didn’t enter the US market until 1990. Since 2018, it has been a top imported beer in the US and a top-five beer brand, showing consistent year-over-year growth. In June 2023, it became the best-selling beer in the US.

Types:

• Especial: Pilsner-style Lager that’s crisp, clean, and refreshing. ABV: 4.4%
• Negra: Munich Dunkel-style Lager gives way to a rich flavor and remarkably smooth taste. ABV: 5.4%
• Oro: Light beer with golden flavor, delivering an exceptionally smooth, elevated taste and crisp, clean finish. ABV: 4%
• Cheladas: delivering a true michelada experience, Modelo Cheladas come in four flavors: Especial (classic), Limón y Sal (lime), Mango y Chile (mango), Piña Picante (pineapple), Naranja Picosa (orange), and Sandía Picante (watermelon). ABV: 3.5%
• Aguas Frescas: Inspired by classic aguas frescas from the street markets of Mexico, the spiked Aguas Frescas are made with a splash of real fruit juice, lightly carbonated, and come in four flavors: Piña (pineapple), Pepino y Limón (cucumber lime), Sandía (watermelon), and Flor de Jamaica (hibiscus). ABV 4.5%

Beer cocktails are great alternative to spirit-based cocktails. Here’s a favorite of ours from Modelo’s site, which has fantastic array of food recipes and beer cocktails.

Bloody Hello Shandy

1. Add grapefruit juice, tequila, agave and jalapeno slices to a shaker filled with ice.
2. Muddle thoroughly and shake well.
3. Pour through a strainer into a highball glass with ice.
4. Top with Modelo Especial and add garnishes.
5. Serve the remaining beer with the cocktail.

We’re proud to distribute Modelo products throughout Oregon and Washington. Contact your local Columbia Distributing sales rep or regional office to learn more. We’re happy to help you find the perfect selection for your customers.

Can’t find a specific Modelo product at your local beverage retailer? Ask them to give us a call and add it to their next order!