Although its name is recognisable, it doesn’t count with the worldwide representation other Spanish breweries might have. However, when it comes to taste, it will always show up on the charts. Mahou is definitely one of the most celebrated beers in the Mediterranean country and a must in almost every Madrilean fridge. Always labelled with its characteristic red colour, they promise to all those thirsty barley aficionados a five-star taste (The famous Cinco Estrellas from the slogan) it’s pretty obvious they turned it into a reality.

Founded in 1890 in the capital city, the company faced a tough start;  beer wasn’t a popular beverage back in the last decade of the XIX century. This fact never stopped the company, which developed a high-quality lager that soon started to be acclaimed by critics and acquired numerous international accolades. The company started to promote those honours on the bottle labels, which made the sales go up the roof.

The first factory was built using German material and also imported hops straight from the Teutonic country. Nuremberg, to be more precise, although they combined it with national barley. Both characteristics helped to set up a different standard and a very own product.

After the success, the company rapidly spread around the Iberian geography, opening different factories and working out an effective delivery method, first through railways and eventually roads, allowing more versatility.

1969 is a key moment in the brewery's history: they launch their stellar product: Mahou Cinco Estrellas, the golden beverage these lines are dedicated to. It was a game-changer for the company: by 1985, over eighty per cent of Madrid bars served Mahou. It was also one of the first lagers to be served in cans. This expansion eventually crossed new horizons, being the brand a classic sponsor in Spanish sports and a recognisable icon in the national TV and cinema, a status that lasts until today.

The manufacturer was bought by the San Miguel group at the end of the 2000’s decade, creating the holding Mahou-San Miguel, the biggest Spanish beer company now, which continues its expansion worldwide.

Golden, crispy, and especially refreshing, it’s a solid choice in the sunny Spanish terraces. Always topped with a remarkable creamy foam, its subtle fruity taste and aroma build a very own personality. Slightly more bodied than a standard lager, the finish is clean, and the desire of having another caña straight away (the most common Spanish beer measure, barely bigger than half a pint) is almost unavoidable.

It’s a perfect match with most of the meals, but it’s right to say nothing can beat a selection of tapas aside from a cold Mahou. It’s also an ideal choice for summer barbeques, and a good friend to carry in the beach bag (but you shall be fast… Nobody wants a warm lager!)

As it continues its expansion through the international market, we’re certain in our hopes of having that Five Star taste of Madrid more accessible along the British geography.

If you enjoyed the Mahou Cinco Estrellas beer review then please let us know what you though by leaving a comment below!

You can buy Mahou Cinco Estrellas on Amazon by clicking here.

Written by Iago Castro Charlon

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