Lakewood Brewing Company's latest release, Muy Importante, is billed as a "Margarita Mexican Lager." Beer lovers can rest assured that it's not masquerading as a sweet, puckery margarita. It's a lager brewed with the natural ingredients that flavor margaritas, though, like agave, lime, orange and sea salt.
In the glass, the beer shows a golden color, a foamy but fleeting head, and aromas of sweet agave and lime zest. Smooth and easy drinking, the beer has a malty sweetness that's balanced by mild hops bitterness, tart lime, and a bare hint of salt. With an alcohol content of just 4.7% ABV, it's a session beer — and less of a hangover threat than a margarita. It would make a good accompaniment to Mexican food or fried fish.
Muy Importante is the second offering in Lakewood Brewing Company's Small Batch Series. These quarterly releases of one-off, experimental beers are creative takes on traditional styles. President and founder Wim Bens says that especially popular beers from this limited edition series may be added to the brewery's recurring seasonal lineup.
For a limited time, Muy Importante will be available at specialty supermarkets and liquor stores that sell craft beers. It's sold in four-packs of 12-ounce cans for about $10. It's also offered at select bars and restaurants in Dallas.
Founded in 201l, Lakewood Brewing Company is a family owned brewery and tap room in Garland.
Tina Danze is a Dallas freelance writer.