Ska Brewing Seasonal 6pk - Mexican Logger / Mexican Lager Dark – Colorado's Award-Winning Craft Lager Revolution

Mexican Lager Market Surge: Why America Can't Get Enough

The Mexican lager revolution has taken America by storm, with sales of Mexican beer imports growing by double digits year over year. In 2024, Modelo Especial dethroned Bud Light as America's best-selling beer, while Corona Extra maintains its position as the fifth best-selling beer nationwide. This surge isn't just about big brands – craft breweries across the country are rushing to create their own interpretations of this beloved style.

The appeal is undeniable: Mexican lagers offer a crisp, clean drinking experience that pairs perfectly with America's growing love affair with Mexican cuisine. These beers typically feature a light body, subtle corn sweetness from adjunct grains, and just enough hop character to keep things interesting. At 5.2% ABV, Ska Brewing Seasonal 6pk - Mexican Logger / Mexican Lager Dark sits right in the sweet spot – strong enough to satisfy but light enough to enjoy multiple rounds.

Industry data shows that Mexican beer imports have grown from a niche market to commanding over 70% of all imported beer sales in the United States. This growth has inspired American craft breweries to develop their own takes on the style, with Ska Brewing being one of the pioneers – first brewing their Mexican Logger back in 1999, long before the current trend took hold.

Craft vs. Import: How Ska Stacks Up Against Corona & Modelo

What sets Ska Brewing Seasonal 6pk - Mexican Logger / Mexican Lager Dark apart from mass-market imports? First, it's brewed with an authentic lager yeast strain sourced directly from Mexico City, giving it legitimate Mexican brewing credentials. Second, Ska uses premium Saaz hops for a more refined hop character compared to the minimal hopping in most imports.

Beer reviewers consistently rate Ska Mexican Logger higher than Corona Extra in blind taste tests, with many noting its superior balance and absence of the "skunky" off-flavors common in clear-bottle imports. The beer earned a Silver Medal at the 2015 Great American Beer Festival, competing against hundreds of other lagers – a testament to its quality and craftsmanship.

From Logger to Dark: The Seasonal Transformation

One of the unique aspects of Ska Brewing Seasonal 6pk - Mexican Logger / Mexican Lager Dark is its seasonal rotation. During summer months, you'll find the classic Mexican Logger – a pale golden lager perfect for river days, backyard BBQs, and cooling down after yard work. Come winter, Ska transforms the recipe into Mexican Lager Dark, an amber lager designed to warm the soul during Colorado's colder months.

The winter version maintains the same 5.2% ABV and crisp lager character but adds caramel and Munich malts for a richer, more warming experience. Think of it as the difference between a refreshing iced coffee in summer and a comforting hot latte in winter – same core appeal, seasonally appropriate execution.

This seasonal approach showcases Ska's creativity and understanding of their Colorado market. While tourists flock to Durango for summer adventures, locals know that winter brings its own charms – and its own thirst. The darker version pairs beautifully with hearty winter fare like green chili, pozole, and grilled meats.

25 Years of Durango Brewing Heritage

Ska Brewing's story began in 1995 when founders Dave Thibodeau and Bill Graham decided they loved drinking good beer but weren't old enough to buy it. Their solution? Brew their own. What started as a homebrewing operation in Durango has grown into one of Colorado's most respected craft breweries, known for pioneering the canned craft beer movement.

The Mexican Logger joined Ska's lineup in 1999, making it one of the first craft interpretations of Mexican lager in the United States. At a time when most craft breweries were focused on hoppy ales and heavy stouts, Ska recognized the appeal of a well-made lager. Their timing was prescient – predating the current Mexican lager boom by over two decades.

Today, Ska operates from their "World Headquarters" at 225 Girard Street in Durango, where visitors can sample the full lineup including seasonal offerings of Ska Brewing Seasonal 6pk - Mexican Logger / Mexican Lager Dark. The brewery's commitment to quality has earned them numerous awards and a devoted following throughout Colorado and beyond.

Perfect Pairings: Food & Occasions

The versatility of Ska Brewing Seasonal 6pk - Mexican Logger / Mexican Lager Dark makes it an ideal companion for various cuisines and occasions. The summer Logger version excels with lighter fare:

• Seafood: Grilled fish tacos, ceviche, shrimp cocktail
• Mexican classics: Street tacos, quesadillas, fresh guacamole
• Summer salads: Especially those with creamy dressings or citrus vinaigrettes
• Grilled vegetables: Corn on the cob, peppers, zucchini

The winter Dark version pairs beautifully with heartier dishes:

• Braised meats: Carnitas, barbacoa, pot roast
• Spicy stews: Green chili, pozole, menudo
• Grilled proteins: Carne asada, chicken fajitas, pork chops
• Rich cheeses: Queso fundido, aged cheddar, manchego

Beyond food pairings, these beers shine in specific settings. The Logger is your go-to for float trips on the Animas River, post-hike refreshment, and sunny patio sessions. The Dark version becomes your companion for ski lodge après, holiday gatherings, and cozy nights by the fireplace.

The Tasting Experience: What to Expect

Pour a Ska Brewing Seasonal 6pk - Mexican Logger / Mexican Lager Dark and you'll immediately notice the quality difference from mass-market lagers. The summer Logger pours a brilliant pale gold with a fluffy white head that actually sticks around – a sign of quality ingredients and proper brewing technique.

On the nose, expect subtle grain aromas with hints of fresh bread and a whisper of lime zest. The Saaz hops contribute a delicate herbal note without overwhelming the clean lager character. Take a sip and you'll find a crisp, refreshing beer with more complexity than typical Mexican imports. There's a slight corn sweetness balanced by moderate bitterness (18-20 IBUs) and a dry, clean finish that invites another sip.

The Dark version presents differently – pouring amber to light brown with a cream-colored head. The aroma shifts toward toasted bread, caramel, and subtle nuttiness. The flavor follows suit with added malt complexity while maintaining that signature lager crispness. It's proof that "dark" doesn't have to mean heavy.

Why Buy Local: Supporting Colorado Craft

Choosing Ska Brewing Seasonal 6pk - Mexican Logger / Mexican Lager Dark over imported alternatives means supporting Colorado's economy and craft beer culture. Every six-pack purchased helps maintain local jobs, from brewers to delivery drivers to retail staff at stores like Wagon Wheel Liquors.

Environmentally conscious consumers will appreciate the reduced carbon footprint of buying beer brewed just down the road in Durango versus shipped from Mexico. Ska's pioneering use of cans also means easier recycling and lower transportation emissions compared to heavy glass bottles.

There's also the freshness factor – Ska Brewing Seasonal 6pk - Mexican Logger / Mexican Lager Dark travels mere miles from brewery to your fridge, ensuring peak flavor. Compare that to imports that may spend weeks in transit and warehouses before reaching store shelves.

Storage & Serving Tips for Maximum Enjoyment

To get the most from your Ska Brewing Seasonal 6pk - Mexican Logger / Mexican Lager Dark, proper storage and serving make all the difference. Store your six-pack in a cool, dark place – ideally the refrigerator. Unlike some ales that benefit from cellar temperatures, lagers are meant to be served cold.

For optimal serving temperature, aim for 38-45°F for the Logger and 45-50°F for the Dark version. The slightly warmer serving temperature for the Dark allows its malt complexity to shine. While the traditional lime wedge is always welcome with the Logger, try tasting it first without – you might be surprised by the beer's natural lime-like qualities from the hops.

Glassware matters too. While drinking from the can is perfectly acceptable (and how many Coloradans enjoy it on the river), pouring into a glass releases aromatics and showcases the beer's appearance. A standard pint glass works well, though a pilsner glass or Mexican cantarito clay cup adds authenticity.

Mixing It Up: Micheladas & Beer Cocktails

While Ska Brewing Seasonal 6pk - Mexican Logger / Mexican Lager Dark stands beautifully on its own, it also serves as an excellent base for beer cocktails. The classic Michelada transforms this lager into a savory, spicy treat perfect for brunch or hot afternoons.

Classic Michelada Recipe:

• Rim glass with lime and tajín seasoning
• Add juice of 1 lime
• 2 dashes hot sauce
• 1 dash Worcestershire sauce
• Pinch of salt and pepper
• Fill with Ska Mexican Logger
• Garnish with lime wheel

For a simpler approach, try a Chelada – just beer, lime juice, and salt. The Dark version works surprisingly well in a beer float with vanilla ice cream, creating a Mexican-inspired twist on the classic root beer float.

Value Proposition: Quality vs. Price

At Wagon Wheel Liquors, Ska Brewing Seasonal 6pk - Mexican Logger / Mexican Lager Dark offers exceptional value in the craft beer category. While priced slightly higher than mass-market imports, you're getting a GABF award-winning beer made with premium ingredients and authentic Mexican yeast.

Consider the math: compared to ordering craft beers at a restaurant or bar where a single pint might cost $6-8, a six-pack provides tremendous savings. During Wagon Wheel's Happy Hour (Monday-Friday 4-6 PM), you'll save an additional 5% on beer purchases with cash or check payment.

The seasonal rotation also adds value – you're essentially getting two distinct beers throughout the year without having to search for different brands. This variety keeps your beer fridge interesting while supporting a local Colorado business.

What Durango Drinkers Are Saying

Local beer enthusiasts consistently praise Ska Brewing Seasonal 6pk - Mexican Logger / Mexican Lager Dark for its drinkability and authenticity. On beer rating apps, it maintains solid scores with reviewers noting its superiority to mainstream Mexican imports.

Common praise includes its clean finish, absence of off-flavors, and perfect carbonation level. Many reviewers mention it as their go-to beer for float trips and camping adventures. The Dark version receives particular acclaim from those seeking a flavorful beer that won't weigh them down during winter activities.

Wagon Wheel Liquors staff, known for their extensive product knowledge, frequently recommend this as a crowd-pleasing option for parties and gatherings. Their 50+ years of experience serving Durango means they know what locals love – and this beer consistently makes the cut.

Availability & Seasonality Guide

Understanding when to find each version of Ska Brewing Seasonal 6pk - Mexican Logger / Mexican Lager Dark helps you plan your purchases:

Mexican Logger (Light Version):

• Available: April through September
• Peak availability: May-August
• Best for: Summer activities, warm weather refreshment

Mexican Lager Dark:

• Available: October through March
• Peak availability: November-February
• Best for: Cool weather comfort, holiday gatherings

Transition periods between seasons may see limited availability of both versions. Wagon Wheel Liquors' knowledgeable staff can help you stock up before the seasonal changeover or suggest similar alternatives if your preferred version is temporarily out of stock.

Wagon Wheel Liquors Exclusives & Deals

Shopping for Ska Brewing Seasonal 6pk - Mexican Logger / Mexican Lager Dark at Wagon Wheel Liquors comes with distinct advantages. Their Happy Hour special (Monday-Friday 4-6 PM) offers 5% off all beer purchases when paying with cash or check – no coupon clipping required.

As downtown Durango's premier liquor store for over 50 years, Wagon Wheel maintains strong relationships with local breweries like Ska. This means consistent stock, fresh inventory, and occasionally access to limited releases or brewery exclusives. Their staff's deep product knowledge ensures you'll get expert recommendations for food pairings or similar beers to try.

The store's convenient downtown location at 30 Town Plaza includes ample free parking – a rarity in downtown Durango. They also offer free delivery for larger orders, perfect for stocking up for parties or events.

How to Order: In-Store, Phone & Delivery

Getting your hands on Ska Brewing Seasonal 6pk - Mexican Logger / Mexican Lager Dark couldn't be easier:

In-Store Shopping:

Visit Wagon Wheel Liquors at 30 Town Plaza in downtown Durango. The knowledgeable staff can direct you to the current seasonal selection and suggest complementary products. Take advantage of Happy Hour pricing weekdays 4-6 PM.

Phone Orders:

Call (970) 247-1655 to check availability or place an order for pickup. The staff can hold products for you and answer any questions about current inventory or upcoming seasonal transitions.

Delivery Options:

Wagon Wheel offers free delivery for qualifying orders within the Durango area. Perfect for stocking up for events or when you can't make it to the store. Call for delivery minimums and scheduling.

Frequently Asked Questions