Corona Familiar is the fuller, slightly stronger member of the Corona family, traditionally sold in the large family-size bottle it is named after. It keeps the easy, sunny Corona character but adds a touch more body and malt, which makes it a little more satisfying than the famous Extra. Here is how it tastes, what is in it, and whether it is the pick of the Corona range.
Corona Familiar at a glance
| Style | Mexican lager |
| ABV | 4.8% |
| Calories | Around 154 per 12 fl oz |
| Carbs | Around 14g per 12 fl oz |
| Origin | Grupo Modelo, Mexico |
| Ingredients | Water, barley malt, non-malted cereals, hops, yeast |
| Vegan | Yes |
| Gluten free | No, it is brewed from barley |
| Typical price | Around $9 to $14 for a 6-pack in the US. Check the button for live pricing |
How it tastes, by the numbers
Familiar is a touch fuller than the standard Corona, with slightly more malt body but the same clean, easy character.
The full review
It pours pale gold and clear, with a quick white head. The aroma is clean and grainy with a soft sweetness, recognisably Corona but with a touch more depth behind it.
On the palate it is smooth and easy, with a light malt sweetness that is a little fuller than the Extra, and a clean, gently bitter finish. The extra body and the slightly higher 4.8% ABV give it more presence without losing the easy-drinking feel.
It does the same sunny, refreshing job as any Corona, just with a bit more to it. A wedge of lime suits it as always, and it drinks best ice cold. For anyone who finds the Extra a little thin, this is the more satisfying choice.
Value is fair for an import. It costs about the same as Corona Extra but gives you slightly more beer for the money in body and strength, which makes it a sensible upgrade within the range.
Corona, with a little more to say for itself.
- Fuller-bodied than Corona Extra
- Clean, easy and refreshing
- Slightly higher strength
- Great with lime and sunshine
- Still a light, simple lager
- Not as widely stocked as the Extra
- Corn character is not for everyone
Who it is for
Corona drinkers who want a bit more body and strength than the Extra. If you like this, a Corona Extra or a Pacifico are the obvious comparisons.
Corona Familiar FAQs
What does Corona Familiar taste like?
Clean and easy with a light, slightly fuller malt sweetness and a crisp finish. Recognisably Corona, but with a touch more body than the Extra.
What is the difference between Corona Familiar and Corona Extra?
Familiar is a little stronger at 4.8% ABV and slightly fuller in body. Extra is the standard Corona at around 4.6% ABV and a touch lighter.
How strong is Corona Familiar?
It is 4.8% ABV, marginally stronger than Corona Extra.
How many calories are in Corona Familiar?
Around 154 calories per 12 fl oz, with roughly 14g of carbs.
Why is it called Familiar?
It is traditionally sold in a large family-size bottle meant to be shared, which is where the name comes from.
Is Corona Familiar vegan?
Yes. It is made from water, barley malt, cereals, hops and yeast with no animal products.
Is Corona Familiar gluten free?
No. It is brewed from barley, so it contains gluten.
Where is Corona Familiar brewed?
In Mexico, by Grupo Modelo.
Where to buy Corona Familiar
Corona Familiar is sold across the US and you can have it delivered cold. Use the button above to check the current price.
The verdict
Corona Familiar is the pick of the Corona range for anyone who finds the Extra a bit thin. It keeps the clean, sunny, easy-drinking character but adds a little more body and strength, which makes it more satisfying without losing the refreshment. A fair three point four out of five. See how it stacks up in our beer reviews and guides.
For the full ranked lineup, head to our best lager beers guide.
Corona Familiar is one of many we ranked. Browse the full list in our best Mexican lager guide.
FAQs
What kind of beer is Corona Familiar?
Corona Familiar is a Mexican lager, at 4.8% ABV.
How much alcohol is in Corona Familiar?
Corona Familiar has an ABV of 4.8%.
How many calories are in Corona Familiar?
Corona Familiar has Around 154 per 12 fl oz, based on the brewery’s published nutrition information.
Is Corona Familiar gluten free?
Corona Familiar: No, it is brewed from barley.
Does Corona Familiar have carbs?
Yes, Corona Familiar has Around 14g per 12 fl oz. If you’re watching carbs, see our guide to the best low-carb beers.
How can I make Corona Familiar taste better?
Serve it at the right temperature and in the right glass (see below), or use it as the base for a beer cocktail. Our beer cocktails guide has recipes worth trying.
What is a good alternative to Corona Familiar?
If you can’t find Corona Familiar, Tecate is a close alternative in the same Mexican lager category.
How much does Corona Familiar cost?
Corona Familiar typically runs Around $9 to $14 for a 6-pack in the US. Check the button for live pricing. Check current pricing and availability through the buy link above.
How do I open Corona Familiar without a bottle opener?
A lighter, a sturdy key, a spoon, or the edge of a table all work in a pinch. See our full guide on opening a beer without a bottle opener for 8 methods that actually work.
What glass should I use for Corona Familiar?
A standard pint or tulip glass works well for a Mexican lager like Corona Familiar. See our beer glassware guide for style-by-style recommendations.
