Mexico isn't usually the first place you think of when seeking out quality craft beers, but the country has a thriving beer scene initially influenced by their neighbours to the north but now developing their own profile. The state of Jalisco alone has 86 breweries, almost all of them founded in the last 10 years.

One of the few exceptions is the pioneer craft brewer in the state, Minerva. Founded in 2003 they have since become the most successful craft brewery in Mexico and influenced the development of the local scene in a state far more famous for its Tequila. We have a range of their beers in stock now.

Mexican brewing (and music) is heavily influenced by the German immigrants who came in the late 19th century. This, of course, led to the omnipotent international lagers such as Corona, but also the richer, more complex Vienna Lagers which are still popular in the country. One of my favourites of this style is Victoria Lager. The clear amber colour and white head will instantly remind any kiwi of bland brown lagers here, but Victoria brings a more complex bready and toasty malt character buffered by a mild hop bitterness and a clean finish. Certainly worth a try on taco night.

We've packaged all our Minerva beers and Victoria into a limited sampler pack.

"Puhoi Beer is our version of the classic Czech pilsner.

Inspired by the original Bohemian settlers of Puhoi, Puhoi Beer is a drinkable lager with a bunch of character.

If we were trying to impress you we might have crapped on about Puhoi Beer being a mix of NZ and classic Czech noble hops that provide floral, citrusy, and spicy flavours on a light malt base with subtle bready and toasty characters. But we wouldn’t want to beer-bore you so let’s just say it’s bloody tasty.

Puhoi Beer also goes well with sunshine, tall tales, good yarns, and fish ‘n’ chips wrapped in newspaper.

Your first one tastes pretty good, and the second’s not bad either."

FREE GLASSES WHILE SUPPLIES LAST.