How beer consumption increases in summer in Spain

Julio Cerezo - Beer Sommelier
Director of Sabeer Beer Academy

Beer and wine are, in that order, the two most widely consumed fermented beverages in Spain, well ahead of cider and a long way ahead of some that are timidly trying to make their mark, such as kombucha and mead.

For centuries, wine held the top spot in consumption due to the ease of cultivating vines, both on the mainland and across the two archipelagos, thanks to our predominantly Mediterranean climate. However, during the last quarter of the 20th century, beer took over that privileged position and nothing seems to indicate that it will let it go in the near future.

If our mild climate was the cause that delayed our brewing development for centuries, it’s also these temperatures – substantially higher than those of central and Northern Europe – that favoured the sorpasso. In our country we still often associate the consumption of beer with the need to refresh ourselves, to quench our thirst and combat the intense heat, and not so much with the pleasure of slowly savouring our drink, enjoying all its nuances, as we do when we enjoy a glass of wine.

This idea means that beer consumption in Spain is much more seasonal than in other regions of Europe, as is the case with ice cream. According to data from Cerveceros de España, the sector's trade association, beer consumption during the two central quarters – from April to September – accounts for nearly two-thirds of the total annual consumption. Month by month, draft beer consumption can be up to four times higher in July and August compared to January and February.

The higher temperatures typical of the summer months are responsible for the increase in beer consumption. However, it's also important to consider that this period coincides with a rise in tourist numbers, who enthusiastically enjoy our beers, further skewing the balance. Despite this peak in consumption, statistics show that the average Spanish consumer drinks around 58 litres of beer per year. This figure places Spain well behind the leading European countries, such as the Czech Republic (over 120 litres), Austria, Romania, Poland, and Germany, all of which exceed 80 litres.

Another factor to consider when analysing beer consumption during the summer is that Spaniards primarily enjoy it in social settings, such as gatherings with friends and family, or at social events. This also influences the higher consumption figures in the summer, a period when the number of occasions to meet is multiplied.
 

SPANIARDS DRINK IN COMPANY

Another factor to consider when analysing beer consumption during the summer is that Spaniards primarily enjoy it in social settings, such as gatherings with friends and family, or at social events. This also influences the higher consumption figures in the summer, a period when the number of occasions to meet is multiplied.

With regard to the styles or types of beer we drink during the summer, we can notice the influence of the heat, once again. Beers with greater body, complexity, and alcohol content are now giving way to fresher and lighter options, such as golden lagers. Although these lighter beers lead the market year-round, their dominance increases even further during the summer months.

Finally, it’s worth mentioning that the consumption of alcoholic-free beer, which accounts for 13% of the total volume in our country, sees a notable increase during the summer. Likely, road trips to holiday destinations and the associated responsibility of driving contribute significantly to this trend.

Cheers!