Modelo Vs Corona: Which Mexican Lager Reigns Supreme?
When it comes to Mexican beers, two names spring to mind: Modelo and Corona. While these beers have many similarities, there are also some key differences. In this post, we will compare Modelo Especial and Corona Extra in terms of style, taste, mouthfeel, alcohol content, and calories, and try to answer the important question: Which is the better beer?
Both Modelo Especial and Corona Extra are Mexican pale lagers with subtle distinctions. Modelo Especial has a more balanced and malty flavor profile with an ABV of 4.4% and 143 calories per 12 oz serving. Corona Extra is lighter and crisper and has a slightly higher ABV of 4.6% and 148 calories per 12 oz serving.
Obviously, this quick summary doesn’t tell the whole story when it comes to Modelo Vs Corona. Keep reading to find out more differences between these beers, find out about their different histories, and to see which one is the better Mexican lager.
Modelo Vs Corona: History
Modelo Especial was founded in 1925 and is brewed by Grupo Modelo, which is now a part of Anheuser-Busch InBev. The brewery was established in Mexico City and quickly gained popularity within Mexico before expanding its footprint globally. Modelo Especial was crafted as a “model” beer, aiming to set the standard for quality and taste in Mexican brewing.
Corona Extra was also introduced in 1925, by Grupo Modelo’s rival brewery, Cervecería Modelo, also located in Mexico. Like Modelo Especial, Corona gained quick popularity, initially in Mexico and later worldwide. Now, it’s often associated with beach-side leisure and is commonly served with a wedge of lime to accentuate its light, crisp taste.
Modelo Vs Corona: Beer Style
Modelo Especial and Corona Extra are both classified as Mexican pale lagers. In the brewing world, a “pale lager” is characterized by its light color and clean crisp flavor. The color is achieved by using pale malts, and the clean, crisp flavor is a result of the bottom fermentation process used to create pale lagers.
Bottom Fermentation takes place at cooler temperatures, leading to fewer fruity esters and a more straightforward beer. Both beers embody these characteristics, making them easy-to-drink options that are especially popular in warmer climates and social settings.
So, in terms of beer style, both Modelo and Corona are quite similar, being both Mexican pale lagers.
Modelo Vs Corona: Taste
Modelo Especial offers a balanced and complex flavor profile that appeals to those who enjoy a bit more substance in their lager. Its taste is marked by a moderate maltiness accented by a subtle hop bitterness. There are also undertones of grains and a slight sweetness that make it well-rounded. The balanced flavor elements in Modelo Especial offer a satisfying experience that pairs well with a variety of foods, making it a versatile choice for different occasions.
Corona Extra, on the other hand, leans towards a lighter, crisper taste. Its profile is a bit simpler, with a somewhat sweet, corn-like flavor. The beer is often consumed with a wedge of lime, which not only enhances its crispness but also adds a zesty, citrus twist. The lighter, less complex flavor of Corona Extra makes it a hit for beachside gatherings or as a refreshing beverage on a hot day.
Modelo Vs Corona: Mouthfeel
Modelo Especial provides a medium-bodied mouthfeel that complements its balanced flavor profile. The beer’s texture is smooth, and it has a moderate level of carbonation that makes it neither too fizzy nor too flat. This gives Modelo Especial a certain “weight” on the palate, making it feel like a more substantial beer that pairs well with a range of foods, from tacos to grilled meats.
Corona Extra, in contrast, has a lighter, more watery mouthfeel. Its carbonation is similar to that of Modelo, but the overall experience is less substantial. The lightness of Corona Extra is part of its appeal, especially for those looking for an easy-drinking beer to enjoy in more relaxed, casual settings like the beach. The thin texture underscores its crispness and adds to its reputation as a refreshing beverage, especially when served with a wedge of lime.
Modelo Vs Corona: Alcohol Content
Modelo Especial And Corona Extra are quite similar when it comes to ABV (Alcohol By Volume). Modelo has an ABV of 4.4% whereas Corona has an ABV of 4.6%. This strength is typical of pale lagers. While the difference in alcohol content is minimal, for those who want a lighter buzz from their beer, Modelo is the one to choose. For those looking for more of a kick from their lager, go for Corona.
Modelo Vs Corona: Calories
In the calorie department, Modelo Especial and Corona Extra are fairly similar, but with slight variations that could matter to the calorie-conscious drinker. Modelo Especial contains approximately 143 calories per 12 oz serving, while Corona Extra is slightly higher at around 148 calories for the same serving size.
While the difference is minimal, those looking to shave off any extra calories might lean toward Modelo Especial. Overall, both beers offer a moderate calorie count typical of many pale lagers.
Modelo Vs Corona: Which One Is The Better Beer?
Deciding between Modelo Especial and Corona Extra ultimately comes down to personal preference, as each beer has its unique characteristics that cater to different tastes and occasions. If you lean towards a balanced, malty flavor with a medium-bodied mouthfeel and don’t mind a slightly lower calorie count, Modelo Especial is your go-to. It has an ABV of 4.4% and around 143 calories per 12 oz serving.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, crisper beer that’s especially refreshing when served with a lime, Corona Extra is your choice. It has a slightly higher ABV of 4.6% and contains around 148 calories per 12 oz serving. In the end, whether you’re in the mood for the complexity and balance of Modelo or the breezy, laid-back vibe of Corona, the ‘better beer’ is the one that best suits your palate and the moment.
