Negra Modelo translates literally into “Black Model”. Which makes me think of Naomi Campbell and her incredible panther strut down the runway, positively oozing glamour and confidence and power (and attitude to spare, of course). The beer doesn’t quite live up to that, but it’s actually quite tasty; easily the best beer I’ve ever tried from Mexico.

One of my great joys in life is going out for dinner with friends. I’ll eat pretty much anything, but there isn’t much that tops a mess of piquant, authentic Mexican tacos. I think I could eat 40 in one sitting (go on, dare me!). Tonight, we went to a great spot in The Annex called, “Hacienda”, and it is where the bartender suggested I try Negra Modelo.  Continuing with my philosophy of saying “Yes!” anytime someone suggests a new beer (despite the disappoint from yesterday), I took him at his word that it was tasty and poured the brew into my glass.

Negra Modelo is a Vienna Lager. That means that it’s pretty light in body and with a clean, smooth finish – but that it has a darker, more Amber colour, and a much stronger malt profile than a typical American Lager. The beer was actually quite delicious!  I didn’t spend much time with my nose stuck in the glass, but I can tell you it made a wonderful pairing with the Braised Rib Taco and really helped balance the spiciness of the Kalbi Beef.