Beer Stats

Container: 12 Oz. Bottle
ABV: 5.4%
Style: International Dark Lager (Munich Dunkel Lager)

Hops Variety: Galena Malts Variety: Pale and Dark Malts

Beer Connoisseur: None

Brewer: Grupo Modelo USA

LUDB Notes:

• Bitterness Level: Restrained
• Drinkability:
  • Would I purchase again? Yes
  • Would I stock it? Yes
  • Comments: Nice caramel malts flavors. Consistent start to finish.

My wife and I recently celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary at the five-star all-inclusive Secrets Maroma Beach Resort. What a fantastic resort! First class all the way. Their beach attendants (we spent ZERO time at the pool) were so friendly and attentive. On the second day we were there, Armando brought me the Modelo Especial I requested. Armando was very entertaining, he kept us in stitches the entire time and we quickly developed a good rapport with him. I asked him if he they had Negra Modelo and could he bring me one next time. Without hesitating he said, “Oh, yes. That’s a great choice. I really like it. Most of the American guests order Corona; but if they ask me about something different I’ll suggest Negra Modelo.” Nice endorsement from a local! (As a side note, I initially referred to it as Modelo Negra, being the good gringo that I am. But, when in Rome…so I quickly changed to saying Negra Modelo to fit in better! LOL!)

Negra Modelo is not truly comparable to Corona or Modelo Especial because it is a Munich Dunkel style Lager. But don’t let its dark look fool you. This is an easy drinking, smooth beer for hot summer days.

Pours a dark color (almost looks like a Coca-Cola in the glass). Has nice creamy white head. The slow brewed caramel malts give it a slightly sweet nose and silky smooth mouth feel. Grupo Modelo uses common Galena and Super Galena hops, which gives Negra Modelo an excellent balance with the sweetness of the malts without the bitterness.

Do you want to know what the best characteristic about this beer is? You know how so many Lagers seem to get more bitter as they warm up? Not this one. I love the fact that it stays consistent start to finish. This is what makes it a great alternative sip for the beach versus the more popular American Adjunct style Lagers. It also pairs well with your standard meat selections: hamburgers, brats, steaks, hot dogs, etc. It can stand up to the fattier meats without overwhelming your palate with hops.

Bottom line: If you are looking for a beer with a little more character that the typical American & Mexican Pale Lagers, that has a refreshing sweetness with no bitter aftertaste; I highly recommend Negra Modelo. No lime needed!

Until next time, enjoy another round!