San Miguel is one of the most recognized beers in Barcelona and across Spain, celebrated for its adventurous spirit and balanced flavor. With roots stretching back to the 19th century, San Miguel has grown from a local favorite to a global icon, enjoyed by beer lovers in over 40 countries.

The History of San Miguel

San Miguel’s story began in 1890 when a group of Spaniards founded the original brewery in Manila, Philippines, under a Spanish Royal Charter. The brewery’s success quickly led to international expansion, with exports to Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Guam by the early 20th century. In 1946, San Miguel beer was introduced to Spain, and by 1953, Spanish operations became independent, eventually forming the Mahou-San Miguel Group.

San Miguel Especial, the flagship lager, was developed with a focus on high-quality ingredients and brewing innovation. Over the decades, San Miguel has earned numerous awards for excellence and remains a staple in Barcelona’s vibrant beer culture.

Price

The price of San Miguel in Barcelona varies by venue and format. In supermarkets, a 33cl bottle typically ranges from €0.80 to €1.20, while in bars or restaurants, the price can range from €2.00 to €4.00 per bottle or draught, depending on the location and establishment. Prices may fluctuate during festivals or in tourist hotspots.

Ingredients

San Miguel Especial is brewed using a simple, high-quality ingredient list:
- Water
- Malted Barley
- Hops

This combination produces a lager with a light gold color, creamy foam, and a flavor profile that balances delicate fruit aromas (white fruits, banana, apple) with subtle notes of white bread and a floral background.

Production Method

San Miguel’s brewing process emphasizes quality and consistency:
- Malt Selection: Only top-quality malting barley is used, often sourced from Spain and France.
- Hops: French hops are blended for a balanced bitterness and floral aroma.
- Brewing: The beer is brewed at controlled temperatures (4º–6ºC) to preserve freshness and flavor.
- Fermentation: Traditional lager fermentation ensures a clean, crisp finish.
- Quality Control: Every batch undergoes rigorous testing to maintain the signature San Miguel taste.

Stats

| Characteristic | Value |
|----------------------|---------------------------|
| Type | Pale Lager |
| Alcohol Content | 5.4% VOL |
| Serving Temp | 4º - 6º C |
| Appearance | Light gold, bright, creamy foam |
| Flavour | White fruits, banana, apple, cereal, hops |
| Bitterness | Moderate, balanced, dry base |
| Awards | Gold at World Beer Awards Spain 2020, World Beer Challenge 2020, Silver at London Beer Competition 2020, and more |

Summary

San Miguel is a Barcelona staple and a global ambassador for Spanish beer, known for its balanced flavor, quality ingredients, and a history that spans over 130 years. Its approachable price, award-winning taste, and consistent brewing standards make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.