Modelo Especial, the crisp and refreshing Mexican lager, has officially unseated Bud Light as America’s best-selling beer. A 14% surge in sales propelled it to the top, signaling a sea change in consumer preferences. From classic lagers to hop-forward craft brews, legacy stalwarts and bold newcomers are competing for a prime spot in the nation’s glasses.
Here are 16 beers that reflect America’s evolving palate.
1. Modelo Especial
The meteoric rise of Modelo Especial speaks to its universal appeal: a clean, balanced taste rooted in Mexican brewing tradition. Its ascent marks a shift in consumer favor toward imported beers with authentic origins.
2. Michelob Ultra
The beer of choice for the calorie-conscious, Michelob Ultra owes its popularity to clever marketing and its lean nutritional profile. It has deftly capitalized on the active lifestyle trend, offering light refreshment without guilt.
3. Guinness
An enduring Irish export, Guinness remains synonymous with its creamy head and unmistakable texture. With an air of sophistication, it has cemented itself as a fixture in American bars, appealing to those seeking substance over simplicity.
4. Heineken
The Dutch mainstay has held its ground through consistent quality and recognizable branding. Its slightly bitter, fruity undertones make it a premium pick for those looking beyond domestic lagers.
5. Sierra Nevada Pale Ale
A pioneer of the craft beer movement, Sierra Nevada Pale Ale still commands loyalty among hop enthusiasts. Its signature bitterness and fresh character highlight the enduring appeal of well-crafted ales.
6. Budweiser
Once the undisputed “King of Beers,” Budweiser’s nostalgic branding and clean flavor keep it relevant among traditionalists. Its cultural significance endures even as tastes shift.
7. Blue Moon
The Belgian-style witbier remains a gateway to craft beer for mainstream drinkers. Its citrusy notes and approachable profile resonate with those wary of stronger brews.
8. Lagunitas IPA
Lagunitas carved its niche as an accessible IPA, with balanced bitterness and a hint of sweetness. It helped popularize hoppy beers without alienating casual drinkers.
9. Coors Light
The “Silver Bullet” maintains its place as a reliable, easy-drinking choice. Coors Light’s ice-cold marketing and unpretentious appeal ensure it remains a light beer staple.
10. Corona
Famous for its lime-accompanied refreshment, Corona remains a top summer favorite. Its laid-back image and light body sustain its position as a beachside essential.
11. Yuengling Lager
America’s oldest brewery continues to thrive. Yuengling’s amber-hued lager delivers a slightly richer alternative to standard lagers, earning it a devoted following across regions.
12. Samuel Adams Boston Lager
A bridge between mainstream and craft, Samuel Adams Boston Lager combines full-bodied flavor with broad accessibility. It stands as a symbol of American brewing ingenuity.
13. New Belgium Voodoo Ranger IPA
Bold and unapologetically hoppy, Voodoo Ranger IPA has surged in popularity with its sharp branding and flavorful punch. It appeals to modern drinkers craving intensity.
14. Fat Tire
Once synonymous with amber ales, Fat Tire’s recent pivot to a golden ale reflects a broader shift toward lighter, more approachable styles in the craft beer market.
15. Pabst Blue Ribbon
PBR’s retro revival has made it a favorite among budget-conscious drinkers and hipsters alike. Its straightforward profile and cultural cachet keep it relevant.
16. Miller Lite
A pioneer in the light beer category, Miller Lite continues to cater to those seeking taste without the heft of a full-calorie brew. Its longevity is a testament to its appeal.
While Modelo reigns supreme, the rest of America’s beer market offers something for every taste—from legacy lagers that evoke nostalgia to adventurous IPAs pushing boundaries. In an era of shifting preferences, the competition for the nation’s favorite pint remains fierce.
Sources: NBC News