Come along with us as we explore the story behind Laguna Baja, from the early spark that led to its creation to the roots of the Vienna-style tradition that inspired it. Along the way, we’ll touch on the recognition it’s earned, break down what you can expect in every sip, and share a Michelada recipe designed to bring it to life in a whole new way.
Mexican food. Top view on a dark stone banner background. Tacos, burrito plate, nachos, enchiladas, tortilla soup and salad.
Laguna Baja’s Beginnings
In the mid-2010s the beer world was deep in its hop craze: everything bigger, louder, and hoppier. During a visit from our malt supplier, founding Brewmaster Mark Ruedrich asked him, “What are you going to do about this?” It was a joke about the excessive hop influence, but it stuck. That moment got Mark thinking about exploring a new malt-forward beer, where it could take center stage in a hop-centric world.
Mark wanted this beer to honor the California Gray Whales, which undertake the longest migration of any mammal on Earth. Every year they travel 10,000 to 12,000 miles round trip between their summer feeding grounds in the Arctic and their winter calving lagoons in Baja California. The name “Laguna Baja” refers to these placid waters, prominently featured on the label: San Ignacio Lagoon, Ojo de Liebre Lagoon, and Magdalena Bay.
From Vienna to Mexico: Understanding Mexican Lager
It naturally made sense to make a dark Mexican lager. Mexican lager can take a few different forms, but its story comes from two distinct roots. In the mid-1800s, German and Austrian brewers brought their brewing traditions to Mexico. The lighter Mexican lagers we know today are largely descended from German pilsners. At the same time, brewers were also making Vienna-style lagers: darker beers with a richer color and a more pronounced malt character.
Laguna Baja fits squarely into that second category. It leans into the Vienna lager tradition, with a deeper dark amber hue and a more malt presence, while still maintaining that clean finish. It’s a beer that offers a little more depth, without sacrificing the drinkability that defines the style.
An American Beer Shines in Europe
Last fall, Laguna Baja earned a bronze medal in the Vienna-Style Lager category at the European Beer Star, an honor we’re incredibly proud of. Competing in Europe, alongside breweries with deep roots in traditional lager styles, it’s no small thing for an American brewery to be recognized in this category. Seeing Laguna Baja hold its own among such respected company is a big accomplishment.
We set out to create a balanced, malt-forward beer that speaks for itself, and it’s rewarding to see that approach resonate beyond our own shores.
What to Expect from This Mexican Lager
Laguna Baja pours a rich dark amber, immediately inviting with malty aromas. While many people associate darker beers with heavy, intense flavors, Laguna Baja challenges that assumption. As Mark says, “The beer is dark, but it does not taste heavy. If you went to the tap and poured and closed your eyes, you would not know it was a dark beer.”
On the palate, it offers a full, creamy body with smooth layers of malt that add depth without weight. Its clean finish and lower alcohol content keep it easy drinking, never heavy on the palate, and always inviting for another sip.
Mark also likes to point out how versatile Laguna Baja is at the table, saying “it’s good with anything Mexican.” That clean finish allows bold, vibrant flavors to shine without competing. It’s a beer designed not just to stand on its own, but to complement the food and the moment.
The Perfect Michelada for Cinco de Mayo
With Cinco de Mayo right around the corner, there’s no better time to put a fresh spin on a classic. Our Brewmaster Chuck Martins developed this Michelada recipe specifically to complement Laguna Baja, striking a balance between refreshing and richly layered. It’s the perfect blend of spice, tang, and umami, ideal for pairing with grilled meats, salty snacks, or fresh ceviche.
Ingredients:
1 bottle (12oz) Laguna Baja
4 oz of Clamato Picante
The juice from one-quarter to one-half of a lime
Dash of Worcestershire or fish sauce
Start with a bottle of Laguna Baja and add Clamato, lime juice and a dash of Worcestershire or fish sauce. Serve over ice in a tall tumbler that can handle the volume or split it into two drinks and share with a friend!
Raising a Glass to This Mexican Lager
Laguna Baja is a beer with a story, crafted with care, and designed to be savored. Whether you’re enjoying it on its own, pairing it with your favorite Mexican dishes, or mixing it into a refreshing Michelada, this beer invites you to slow down and celebrate the journey. Come along and raise a glass with us to Laguna Baja!
