As Cinco de Mayo approaches, people are getting ready to celebrate Mexico’s rich culture, heritage, and history. And what better way to enjoy the festivities than with a cold, refreshing non-alcoholic cerveza?
In recent years, non-alcoholic beers have experienced a surge in popularity, and the market has expanded to include a wide variety of flavors and styles.
In this blog post, we will explore the world of non-alcoholic cervezas, their unique characteristics, and how they can be the perfect addition to your Cinco de Mayo celebrations.
What is Non-Alcoholic Cerveza?
Non-alcoholic beer, also known as alcohol-free or near-beer, is a type of beer that contains little to no alcohol. Typically, non-alcoholic beers contain less than 0.5% alcohol by volume (ABV), allowing consumers to enjoy the taste of beer without the intoxicating effects. They are brewed similarly to regular beer, but with a unique process that removes or limits the alcohol content.
“Cerveza” is just Spanish for “beer”, but in the United States, the term “cerveza” is often used to describe Mexican-style lagers.
Why Choose Non-Alcoholic Cerveza for Cinco de Mayo?
1. Responsible Celebrations
Opting for non-alcoholic cerveza during your Cinco de Mayo festivities is a responsible choice for those who want to avoid excessive alcohol consumption. It allows you to partake in the merriment while remaining clear-headed and in control.
2. Inclusivity
Non-alcoholic cervezas make it possible for everyone to participate in Cinco de Mayo celebrations. They are a great option for designated drivers, pregnant women, people taking medication, or anyone who chooses not to consume alcohol for personal or health reasons.
3. Health Benefits
Non-alcoholic beers tend to be lower in calories, carbs, and sugar compared to their alcoholic counterparts, making them a healthier option for those watching their waistlines. Plus, they still contain essential nutrients, like vitamins and minerals, found in traditional beer.
Top Non-Alcoholic Cervezas to Try This Cinco de Mayo
1. Cerveza Atletica
Cerveza Atletica is a refreshing Mexican-inspired Light Copper non-alcoholic beer, crafted with summertime refreshment in mind. Brewed by Athletic Brewing, this innovative brew features a unique blend of premium Vienna and Munich malts, giving it a rich copper hue and an aroma of delicate bread crust. These flavors are perfectly balanced with light spicy and floral notes from the noble hop, German Hersbrucker.
With a dry finish, Cerveza Atletica is an ideal pairing for spicy salsa and fish tacos, making it a fantastic addition to your Cinco de Mayo celebration.
Ingredients: Water, Malted Barley, Wheat, Hops, Yeast.
Thanks to a cutting-edge, proprietary brewing method, Cerveza Atletica breaks the stereotype of watery, tasteless non-alcoholic beers. Instead, this lineup of non-alcoholic craft beers delivers an uncompromised, full-flavored taste that is perfect for any occasion.
2. Corona Non-Alcoholic
Introducing Corona Non-Alcoholic, a 0.5% lager from the renowned ABV-Inbev brand, Corona. This non-alcoholic version of the popular Corona Extra offers the same great taste without the alcohol, perfect for those looking for a refreshing alternative. As one of the top five best-selling beers in the USA, Corona Extra has a long-standing reputation for quality and taste.
Originally introduced to the US from Mexico in the early 80s, the Corona brand has a rich history dating back to 1925, when the Mexican brewery Modelo first began brewing beers under the Corona name. Although Modelo still brews Corona, the brewery is now owned by the brewing giant AB-Inbev, enabling worldwide production and distribution.
Corona Non-Alcoholic (0.5%) is the non-alcoholic answer to Corona Extra and has been available in Mexico since 2016. It made its debut in import markets in January 2022 and has quickly gained popularity, finding its way into numerous supermarkets and grocery stores thanks to AB-Inbev’s impressive distribution capabilities. With its familiar, refreshing taste and 0.5% alcohol content, Corona Non-Alcoholic is sure to become a favorite among non-alcoholic beer enthusiasts.
3. Rational Vibes Cerveza
Rational Vibes Cerveza is a classic Mexican lager that delivers a crisp, refreshing flavor perfect for quenching your thirst. Whether you’re enjoying it alongside tacos or sipping it at the beach with friends, this non-alcoholic beer is an excellent choice for any occasion.
Brought to you by Rationale, the same brewery behind other popular non-alcoholic beers like the New England Hazy IPA and the West Coast IPA, Rational Vibes Cerveza stands out as a crisp, light, and crushable option for those looking for an alcohol-free alternative.
Produced using Barrel Brother’s state-of-the-art dealcoholization technology called “continuous flow vacuum distillation,” Rational Vibes Cerveza is crafted with the same methods and quality as an alcoholic beer. This innovative distillation technology allows for the gentle removal of alcohol at moderate temperatures, ensuring minimal impact on the flavor or characteristics of the originally fermented beer. The result is a non-alcoholic beer that offers the same satisfying taste and experience as its alcoholic counterparts.
Non-Alcoholic Cerveza Pairings for Your Cinco de Mayo Feast
1. Tacos
Pair your favorite non-alcoholic cerveza with a plate of mouth-watering tacos. The crisp, refreshing taste of the beer will perfectly complement the spicy, savory flavors of your taco fillings.
2. Guacamole and Chips
Nothing beats a classic combo of guacamole and chips. The light, malty sweetness of a non-alcoholic cerveza balances the creamy, rich taste of guacamole, making for a perfect Cinco de Mayo snack.
3. Chiles Rellenos
Chiles Rellenos, stuffed with cheese or meat and coated in a light, crispy batter, are a popular Mexican dish that pairs well with non-alcoholic cerveza. The beer’s carbonation helps to cleanse the palate after each flavorful bite.
4. Ceviche
For a lighter option, try pairing your non-alcoholic cerveza with ceviche, a zesty seafood dish marinated in lime juice and spices. The beer’s crispness will balance the tangy, citrusy flavors of the ceviche.
5. Churros
Don’t forget about dessert! Non-alcoholic cerveza pairs surprisingly well with churros, the deep-fried, sugar-coated pastry that’s a favorite in Mexico. The beer’s maltiness and subtle sweetness will complement the cinnamon sugar coating of the churros.
This Cinco de Mayo, embrace the flavor and skip the buzz with non-alcoholic cerveza.
With so many options available, you can easily find a brew that complements your favorite Mexican dishes and allows you to celebrate responsibly. Whether you’re a designated driver, avoiding alcohol for health reasons, or simply looking for a refreshing alternative, non-alcoholic cervezas are a perfect addition to your Cinco de Mayo festivities.
So raise a glass and toast to the rich culture and heritage of Mexico – salud!
