Tasting

Try an Estrella Galicia Especial in Galicia, and you'll usually get it very cold. In Spain, beer is traditionally served ice-cold—a glass in summer is meant to quench thirst, not linger. A properly poured beer holds its head well at these temperatures. At such cold temperatures, malt aromas fade into the background, leaving freshness and a light bready note.

If you want to taste more, let the glass sit for a minute or two. At around 6 to 8 degrees Celsius, the malt shows more clearly, and the mild hop character steps forward. A sip of water in between helps reset the palate. This makes it easier to compare Especial and 1906 Reserva Especial side by side. The Especial tastes of bread and grain, while the 1906 shows roasted malt, caramel, and coffee.

Estrella Galicia Especial serves as the everyday example—the smaller beer for quenching thirst. The 1906 Reserva Especial suits a more relaxed gathering, its 6.5 percent alcohol showing through as a gentle warmth in the finish. Red Vintage and Black Coupage round out the lineup for anyone curious to try a redder or darker version.

In bars, it's usually served in a caña, a small draft glass. It's deliberately small to keep the beer cold, and it's often reordered. Want a larger serving? Order a bigger glass or a bottle. When pouring, the glass is tilted briefly, then straightened at the end to form a fine white crown of foam.