Beer forged an important place for itself in Spanish society in the 20th century, to the extent that has become the most widely consumed drink at social events. The fact that it is a refreshing drink, with moderate alcohol content and a price that is affordable for any pocket, are all factors that have helped it gain its popularity, and there are no foreseeable reasons on the horizon for it not to remain so in the coming years.
If we take a closer look at the consumption figures showing a lower consumption of alcohol, beer is still one of the best options over other drinks thanks to the availability of alcohol free and 0.0 beer, which in Spain now accounts for 13% of the market share, way higher than in any other European country.
Bearing in mind all of the above, it is not surprising that beer is so closely associated with mass events such as music concerts and football matches, where our drink plays an important role.
Given the enormous popularity and wide coverage of this sport in the media, we can often see how brewers compete to sponsor different competitions, clubs or national teams each season, thereby associating their brand with some of the most well-known sportspeople in the world, but above all, associating it with enjoyment in company.
Rather curiously, and despite the close association between football and beer, Spanish legislation banished beer from stadiums some years ago as a measure to prevent violence. Only alcohol free beer can be consumed in the stands today, although this does not prevent the fans from having their ritual beers before going into the stadium and/or after the match.
Although a lot of fans go to the stadiums to watch football matches, even more meet up in the bars to enjoy a match on television while they have one or more beers together, nearly always golden lager, as it is the brewing style that best adapts to that type of drinking, because of its sensory features. Varying the type of beer on match day does not usually happen, and fans tend to choose their favourite brand, whilst always sticking to the ever popular lager.
Perhaps, sometime in the not so distant future, beer will also be served again in stadiums during matches. Just as those terrible fences that separated the players from the spectators disappeared, responsible behaviour by everyone involved will help to bring football and beer back together, as the combination does not necessarily need to lead to undesirable situations. As always, drinking responsibly is the best possible recommendation.
Cheers!
