Mahou is one of Spain’s most iconic beers, widely enjoyed in Barcelona and across the country. Known for its refreshing taste and deep heritage, Mahou stands as a staple in Spanish beer culture, pairing perfectly with tapas and social gatherings.

History of Mahou

Mahou’s story began in Madrid in 1890, when the children of French entrepreneur Casimiro Mahou García founded *Hijos de Casimiro Mahou*. The first Mahou beer was brewed in 1891, quickly becoming synonymous with Spanish beer culture. Over the decades, Mahou expanded its reach, eventually merging with San Miguel to form the Mahou-San Miguel Group, which now dominates the Spanish beer market. While Mahou’s roots are in Madrid, its presence is strong in Barcelona, with dedicated offices and distribution centers in the city.

Price

- Typical retail price: £6–£7.35 for a 12-pack of 330ml bottles (approx. 45.5p per 100ml).
- Prices may vary depending on location and retailer, but Mahou remains an affordable premium lager in both Spain and international markets.

Ingredients

Mahou’s celebrated flavor is crafted from:
- Barley malt
- Maize
- Hops
- Water
- Brewer’s yeast (a century-old strain)

It contains gluten due to the barley malt and is suitable for vegetarians.

Production Method

Mahou is brewed as a pilsner-style lager using traditional methods:
- Malted barley and maize are mashed and boiled with hops to extract flavor and bitterness.
- A unique, century-old yeast strain is used for fermentation, contributing to its distinct profile.
- The beer is cold-lagered for clarity and smoothness, then bottled or kegged for distribution.
- Mahou recommends serving chilled between 6–8°C for optimal flavor.

Stats

| Attribute | Value |
|-------------------|-----------------------------------|
| Type | Pale Lager (Pilsner) |
| ABV | 5.1% |
| Calories | 44 kcal per 100ml |
| Carbohydrates | 3.7g per 100ml |
| Protein | 0.3g per 100ml |
| Fat | 0g |
| Production | 7 brewing centers in Spain |
| Annual Output | Mahou-San Miguel: ~7 million Hl|

Summary

Mahou is a classic Spanish lager with over 130 years of heritage, known for its balanced, refreshing flavor and quality ingredients. Brewed with a blend of Spanish and Bavarian hops, barley malt, and a historic yeast strain, Mahou is a favorite in Barcelona and throughout Spain. Its accessible price, crisp taste, and rich history make it a go-to choice for beer lovers seeking an authentic Spanish experience.