Corona Extra Beer Review

Tasting Notes and Review of Corona: A Classic Mexican LagerTasting Notes

Color

Corona presents a light yellow hue in the glass, reminiscent of straw or faded copper. Its clarity and brightness make it visually appealing, distinguishing it from some of its darker competitors in the lager category.

Nose

The aroma of Corona is inviting and refreshing, featuring sweet malt notes paired with a hint of the signature skunkiness often associated with lighter lagers. There are also subtle hints of citrus and green apple that add a layer of complexity to the overall scent profile.

Palate

On the palate, Corona is instantly recognizable. It offers a sharp effervescence that begins at the tip of the tongue and travels upward, creating an invigorating sensation. The initial sweetness is noticeable but is balanced by a mild bitterness, preventing it from becoming overly sugary. Muted notes of orange and grain round out the flavor, contributing to its approachable nature.

Finish

The finish of Corona includes a slight bitter hit that fades quickly, leaving behind a touch of residual sweetness and lingering bubbles. This refreshing finish keeps you wanting another sip, making it an ideal choice for casual enjoyment.

Our Review

Corona is a light and crisp pale lager hailing from Mexico, renowned for its widespread popularity in the United States. Its flavor profile is not overly complex, straddling the line between mass-produced American light lagers and the more robust, intricate beers from Europe. This makes it a versatile choice for a variety of occasions.

A Year of Success

Despite facing production challenges during the pandemic, Corona has enjoyed a banner year. Brewed by Grupo Modelo in several breweries across Mexico, this lager has a rich history that dates back to the 1920s when it was first crafted at Cervecería Modelo in Mexico City. Within just a decade, it had secured its place as the best-selling beer in Mexico.

A fascinating aspect of Corona’s heritage is its connection to German brewing traditions. The beer was originally developed by German immigrant Adolf H. Schmedtje, who brought traditional techniques and flavor profiles from his homeland. This historical influence explains some of the similarities between Corona and German-style lagers.

The Signature Experience

While Corona is globally recognized for its light yellow color and distinctive clear bottle, it is essential to note that it does not aim for complexity. This pale lager is designed for effortless enjoyment, making it perfect for casual settings such as summer outings, beach days, or backyard barbecues. A popular tradition among drinkers is to add a wedge of lime to the bottle, enhancing the beer’s tartness and flavor. This practice has become synonymous with the Corona experience.

The carbonation in Corona is lively yet not overwhelming, resulting in a bright, unassertive palate characterized by notes of grass, malt, sweetness, and just a whisper of hops. While craft beer enthusiasts may seek more pronounced hop profiles or intricate flavors, Corona is crafted to be accessible and enjoyable for a wide audience. Its approachability has significantly contributed to the brand's success.

Pricing and Availability

Corona is priced competitively, typically costing just a few dollars more than similar offerings, placing it in the low- to mid-range of the market. Its availability is extensive, rivaling large American brands like Budweiser and Coors, making it easy to find in stores, bars, and restaurants across the U.S.

Conclusion

In summary, Corona is a classic Mexican lager that embodies simplicity and accessibility. Its light and crisp profile, combined with its rich history and cultural significance, make it a go-to choice for many beer drinkers. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach or enjoying a barbecue with friends, Corona is the perfect companion for casual enjoyment.