Red Horse
Red Horse is a high-alcohol beer brand originating from the Philippines, brewed by San Miguel Corporation. Since its introduction in 1977, it has gained popularity both domestically and internationally for its strong flavor and reputation as an ""extra strong beer."" Widely distributed throughout the country, including places like Baguio, it holds a significant place in local culture.
- Taste Rating
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- Price
- ? Philippine Peso
- Meal Date
- 1/1/2023
- Food Travel Log
- If you need a bottle opener while traveling, a belt buckle works. The first beer of 2023 in Baguio was Red Horse! With a strong 6.9% alcohol content, it’s formidable, yet once you get to know it, it’s a Filipino nice guy you can chug endlessly!
AI Gourmet Analysis
Overview
Red Horse is one of the most representative beer brands in the Philippines, manufactured by San Miguel Brewery Inc. Red Horse is especially known for its high alcohol content (usually around 6.9%) and is widely enjoyed by beer enthusiasts as an "Extra Strong Beer."
It is sold throughout the Philippines, including Baguio, and is highly regarded not only by tourists but also by locals. Since its production began in 1977, it has received numerous awards for alcoholic beverages both in the Philippines and internationally.
Characteristics and Brewing Process
The greatest characteristic of Red Horse is its rich and robust flavor, even among pilsner-style beers. Its recipe uses more malt than regular pilsners and emphasizes the bitterness and depth of hops to achieve a distinctive "heaviness" and "substantial mouthfeel." Additionally, yeast selection and temperature control are meticulously managed during the fermentation process to achieve the higher alcohol content.
History
Red Horse was born in 1977 in response to the demand for a "stronger beer" in the Philippine beer market. Initially, it gained popularity mainly among male laborers, but nowadays, it is enjoyed by a wide range of people regardless of gender or age. Its international recognition is also high, as it can be found in Filipino communities across Asia, America, Europe, and other regions.
Cultural Significance and Social Role
In the Philippines, Red Horse is a standard drink for gatherings at home, barbecues, parties, and karaoke events. It maintains a symbolic position, especially among young people, students, and workers, as a "strong beer" and a "beer that makes you feel like an adult man."
Furthermore, in highland cities like Baguio, a beer-drinking culture has taken root in the cool climate, and Red Horse is loved by both locals and tourists for being relatively inexpensive with high cost performance.
International Recognition and Awards
Red Horse has repeatedly received high ratings in international beer contests such as the Asia Beer Cup and Monde Selection. Its features have been especially acknowledged in the "Strong Beer Category" and "Innovative Style" categories.
Variations and Ways to Drink
Red Horse is sold in various packages, such as bottles and cans, and it is sometimes possible to encounter a special edition called the "Lucky Bottle." While it is rare to obtain Red Horse in Japan, it is widely distributed within the Philippines.
As for how to drink it, it is generally served straight and chilled, or sometimes with ice added. It is also said to pair well with grilled dishes such as sisig, BBQ chicken, or pulled pork.
Conclusion
Red Horse is a beer closely intertwined with the popular culture of the Philippines, beloved across generations for its high alcohol content and unique flavor. It can be enjoyed as a special part of experiences in various regions, including Baguio, and is strongly impressed upon tourists as a symbol of local life.