Why Is Mexican Beer Always Served With A Lime?

While most beers are consumed standalone, Mexican lager often comes with a lime. There are several theories as to why this classic pairing exists.

Some suggest that the lime started as a disinfectant. Others believe it grew out of the practice of using a lime wedge to wipe rust from the bottle mouth.

As for how the combination rose to prevalence, specifically in the U.S., author Martin Lindstrom posits that a bartender combined Corona and lime as a marketing move in the 1980s.

As a mass-produced beer, many find its palate unremarkable, so the lime makes the flavor more broadly appealing. There is also an accessible abundance of limes in Mexico.

Some suggest this discovery actually occurred in California in 1981, perhaps as a fun trick. What's clear is that the combo has become a marketable sensation across the country.