Nothing says summer quite like an ice-cold Michelada.
A staple of Mexican bars, beaches and backyard gatherings, the Michelada is a refreshing beer cocktail that combines lager, lime, spice and savoury flavours into one incredibly drinkable serve. Think of it as the perfect balance between a Bloody Mary and a crisp lager.
With the World Cup kicking off and several matches being hosted in Mexico, there's no better time to bring a little Mexican-inspired flavour to your match day celebrations. Whether you're watching the football, firing up the BBQ or simply enjoying a sunny evening with friends, a Michelada made with SMALL BEER Mexican Lager delivers big flavour without the heavyweight ABV.
What Is a Michelada?
A Michelada is a traditional Mexican beer cocktail typically made with lager, fresh lime juice, hot sauce, savoury seasonings and a chilli-salt rim. The name is believed to come from "mi chela helada", loosely translating to "my cold beer".
Unlike sweeter beer cocktails, a Michelada leans into bright citrus, gentle spice and umami-rich ingredients to create a drink that's refreshing, complex and endlessly sessionable.
Why Use SMALL BEER Mexican Lager?
A great Michelada starts with great beer.
SMALL BEER Mexican Lager is crisp, refreshing and brewed for maximum drinkability. Its clean malt profile and subtle citrus notes complement the lime, spice and savoury elements of the cocktail without overpowering them.
The result is a lighter, more refreshing Michelada that's perfect for long summer afternoons, tournament football marathons and BBQ season.
Michelada Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lime wedge (for rimming and garnish)
- Tajín
- 20ml Ojo de Dios Mezcal (optional)
- 20ml fresh lime juice
- 50ml Clamato juice
- 20ml Worcestershire sauce
- 15ml El Yucateco Red Sauce
- Pinch of salt
- SMALL BEER Mexican Lager
Method
- Take a half-pint glass and run the lime wedge around the rim.
- Dip the rim into Tajín until evenly coated.
- Add the mezcal (if using), fresh lime juice, Clamato juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce and salt to the glass.
- Stir well to combine.
- Fill the glass with ice.
- Top with SMALL BEER Mexican Lager.
- Garnish with the lime wedge and serve immediately.
Watch the Michelada Come Together
Want to see it made before you mix your own? We've put together a quick step-by-step video showing exactly how we make our Michelada with SMALL BEER Mexican Lager. From the Tajín rim to the final pour, it's the easiest way to get a feel for the perfect balance of citrus, spice and refreshment.
Watch the video below, then grab your ingredients and give it a go yourself.
Tips for the Perfect Michelada
Keep Everything Cold
A Michelada is at its best when every ingredient is chilled before serving. Cold beer and plenty of ice help keep the drink crisp and refreshing.
Adjust the Heat
Micheladas are highly customisable. Add more El Yucateco if you enjoy extra spice, or reduce the amount for a gentler kick.
Add Mezcal for Extra Depth
The optional splash of Ojo de Dios Mezcal adds a subtle smoky character that pairs beautifully with the savoury Clamato and citrus notes.
Serve During Summer Gatherings
Micheladas are made for sharing. They're ideal for BBQs, garden parties and football watch-alongs throughout the summer.
The Perfect World Cup Match Day Drink
As football fans turn their attention to the World Cup and matches hosted across Mexico, the Michelada feels especially fitting. It's a drink rooted in Mexican beer culture that brings together refreshment, flavour and occasion.
Better still, using SMALL BEER Mexican Lager means you can enjoy a few throughout the afternoon while keeping things balanced. Big flavour, plenty of refreshment and a cocktail that pairs perfectly with sunshine and football.
Ready to make your own? Grab a bottle of SMALL BEER Mexican Lager, gather your ingredients and bring a taste of Mexico to your next match day.
