You might think Banks Brewing have joined the army of craft breweries turning to Mexican lagers in late 2023 but their Cantina, has been a returning summer refresher since 2021. What's more, while many might love Banks' high octane releases, they've long loved following tradition and subtlety when it comes to lager and Cantina is one of many easy-going bottom fermenting beers they love. Maybe it's the name and colour of the can but on the first sip, my mind went straight to enjoying this beer with a big bowl of corn chips, with the incredibly crisp, clean and crisp beer providing light floral cues, dry cracker and tortilla notes.
Now, I don't want to cast aspersions but it feels like there's an ulterior motive to Banks releasing Hard Lemonade beside a mexican lager. Yes, it is summer and the drink, made with real lemons, is as refreshing as an Original Lemonade soft drink so it is seasonally appropriate. On top of that, many breweries are looking for non-beer alternatives. But when you see a Mexican lager and a hard lemonade at once, you'd be a fool not to mix the two together and enjoy them as a radler - I certainly did and have zero regrets and can say about a third Hard Lemonade to Cantina is the perfect ratio.
Will Ziebell
Published December 22, 2023 2023-12-22 00:00:00
