Pacífico

Surfers like to claim they discovered Pacífico, and they half did: this pilsner-style lager from the Pacific port of Mazatlán, its yellow label wearing a life-ring, is coastal branding that for once is completely earned.

German immigrants founded Cervecería del Pacífico in Mazatlán in 1900, bringing pilsner technique to the Sinaloan coast. For decades the beer stayed a regional secret — until, as the story goes, Californians running Baja surf trips found it, loaded their trucks, and carried the habit home. Pacífico's U.S. following still skews toward beach towns and board racks accordingly.

Ownership is a two-flag arrangement: Grupo Modelo, inside AB InBev — the world's biggest brewer at 484.19 million hectolitres in 2025 — owns the brand, while Constellation Brands holds the U.S. rights, the same split that governs Corona. Next to that famous sibling, Pacífico has stayed the smaller, saltier one, and its drinkers prefer it that way.

Noticeably more character than its beach-beer reputation suggests: a proper pilsner-style bite, with grassy, lightly peppery hops over crackery pale malt and a dry, snappy finish. Bright gold, well-carbonated, medium-light in body. It stands up to lime and hot sauce without disappearing, which is why it pairs so well with fish tacos and ceviche.