Mexican lagers, such as the popular Dos Equis or Negra Modelo, are often mistakenly thought of as Vienna Lagers. While they do share some similarities, they are not technically the same style. Allow me to delve into the differences and shed some light on the subject.
Vienna Lager, as the name suggests, originated in Austria in the 19th century. It was a rich, amber-colored beer that was brewed using a combination of Vienna and Munich malts. These malts imparted a toasty, biscuity flavor to the beer, with a hint of sweetness. The use of noble hops provided a balanced bitterness, and the lager yeast gave it a clean and crisp finish.
Now, let's shift our attention to Mexican lagers. These beers have their roots in the Vienna Lager style but have undergone some modifications over time. When Austrian brewers immigrated to Mexico in the late 19th century, they brought their brewing traditions with them. However, due to the availability of ingredients and local preferences, the Mexican Amber Lager emerged as a distinct variation.
The Mexican Amber Lager differs from the traditional Vienna Lager in a few key ways. Firstly, it incorporates caramel malts into the recipe, which gives the beer a deeper amber color and a sweeter, more caramel-like flavor. This addition of caramel malts adds a touch of complexity to the beer, enhancing its overall richness.
Additionally, Mexican Amber Lagers often include unmalted adjuncts such as flaked maize. This ingredient contributes to a lighter body and a slightly sweeter taste. The use of adjuncts like maize is not typical in traditional Vienna Lagers but has become a defining characteristic of Mexican lagers.
The inclusion of adjuncts and caramel malts in Mexican Amber Lagers sets them apart from the classic Vienna Lager style. These modifications give the beer a distinct profile that is both familiar and unique to Mexican brewing traditions.
In terms of taste, Mexican Amber Lagers can be described as having a malty backbone with notes of caramel and toasted bread. They are typically medium-bodied and have a moderate level of bitterness. The addition of flaked maize imparts a subtle sweetness and a smooth mouthfeel. Mexican Amber Lagers offer a flavorful and refreshing beer-drinking experience.
To summarize, while Mexican lagers have their roots in the Vienna Lager style, they have evolved into a distinct variation known as Mexican Amber Lager. The use of caramel malts and unmalted adjuncts sets them apart from the traditional Vienna Lager, giving them a unique flavor profile. So, while they may share some similarities, Mexican lagers cannot be considered the same as Vienna Lagers.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and analyzing various beer styles, including both Vienna Lagers and Mexican lagers. It's fascinating to explore the subtle nuances and differences between these styles, and it's always a joy to share my knowledge and experiences with others. Cheers!