Bohemia

Bohemia is a popular Mexican beer, introduced in 1905 in Monterrey. A pilsner beer, it is brewed according to the very popular style originated in Pilsen, Bohemia (at the time a kingdom of the Austrian Empire and today the Czech Republic). At 5.3% alcohol, it is a clear, golden beer, brewed with Styrian hops (originated in Styria, Austria). Presently, it is a brand of Cuauhetmoc Moctezuma, a Heineken International subsidiary.

This above-premium brand is quite common in Mexico and the United States, and one will often encounter it in Mexican restaurants. Bohemia is sold in stately dark-brown bottles with an ornate foil neck shroud.

In 2007 a new Bohemia brand, Bohemia Oscura, a Vienna lager was introduced. At 5.5% alcohol, this beer has a darker appearance and uses caramel and roasted malts.

A third Bohemia brand, Bohemia Weizen, a strong wheat beer, was rolled out in 2009. At 5.7% alcohol, this beer uses malted wheat, Mt. Hood hops, coriander, and orange peel in the brew.


Bohemia Chocolate Stout, the newest of the line, debuted in 2011 and comes in at 5.7% alcohol. Using crystal, brown, and chocolate malts, as well as a touch of Mexican cocoa, this beer will appeal to the extra-dark beer enthusiasts and is sold from October to March.

This writer has had the opportunity to sample the original Bohemia on a few occasions, and I look forward to being able to sample the others in this fascinating line of beers.

RJT