Is Corona a skunky beer? As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that yes, Corona does have a distinct skunky flavor. This is due to the fact that almost all hops, when exposed to sunlight, can produce a chemical reaction that creates a skunky aroma and taste. Unfortunately, Corona is sold in clear glass bottles, making it very susceptible to this skunking process.
Skunking occurs when the hops in beer are exposed to ultraviolet light, such as sunlight. This exposure causes a chemical reaction that breaks down hop compounds, resulting in the release of a compound called 3-methyl-2-butene-1-thiol. This compound is responsible for the skunky odor and flavor that many people associate with skunked beer.
Corona, being sold in clear glass bottles, allows sunlight to easily penetrate the beer and initiate the skunking process. This is why Corona has gained a reputation for having a skunky flavor. It's worth noting that even Corona sold in kegs is typically first skunked before being served, as it goes through the same bottling process and can still be exposed to light afterwards.
Interestingly, the skunky aroma and taste of Corona has actually become a selling point for some people. There are those who have grown to enjoy the unique skunked flavor that Corona possesses. It has become somewhat of a cult favorite among beer enthusiasts who appreciate its distinct character.
As a personal anecdote, I recall a time when I was hosting a beer tasting event and included Corona in the lineup. Despite the presence of other well-crafted beers, there were attendees who specifically sought out Corona just for its skunky taste. It was fascinating to witness how personal preferences can vary so greatly when it comes to beer.
To mitigate the skunking issue, some breweries have taken measures to protect their beers from sunlight. This includes using brown or green glass bottles, which offer greater UV protection than clear glass. Additionally, many craft breweries now package their beers in cans, which provide even better protection against light.
Corona is indeed a skunky beer. Its clear glass bottle packaging makes it highly susceptible to the skunking process caused by exposure to sunlight. However, the skunky flavor of Corona has developed a devoted following, with some beer enthusiasts actually seeking out its unique taste. Whether you enjoy the skunky flavor or not, it is a defining characteristic of Corona and sets it apart from other beers in the market.