Mahou, the Spanish brewing giant with a 135-year history, is venturing into the world of wine with its new line of mixed drinks. The company, renowned for its beer production since its establishment in 1890 on Amaniel Street in Madrid, is set to debut its Los Cachis range across Spain, marking a significant shift in its product offerings.
The Los Cachis range will be available on tap at bars throughout the country in the coming months. Aimed at young adult consumers, Mahou plans to make a strong presence at major cultural events, including the Feria de Málaga festival later this year. The new line includes several Spanish favorites with a modern twist: a classic Sangria, a Tinto Verano (a red wine and lemonade blend), Kalimotxo (wine and cola), and Rebujito (Sherry with lemon soda). The Tinto de Verano will also be offered in 33cl bottles for on-the-go consumers.
“This innovation complements our product portfolio by diversifying into ready-to-serve drinks that reflect Spanish culture, with a focus on wine,” a company spokesperson explained. “They are crafted to appeal to a young adult audience and are perfect for special consumption moments.”
Why Draft?
While the decision to offer Los Cachis on draft may appear bold, Mahou’s history with beer taps suggests the company is no stranger to innovation in this space. Over the years, Mahou has continuously refined its tap technology, evolving from rudimentary wooden beer containers to the introduction of a stainless steel-coiled tap in 1966, which allowed for better pressure control and freshness. The company later introduced ceramic taps in the 1980s and, more recently, unveiled the Ávila tap, which is designed to keep beer at optimal temperatures, providing a unique “freezing cold” pour.
Such innovations are expected to translate well into the new Los Cachis range, which has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 4.1%, offering a refreshing, easy-drinking experience for young, social consumers.
International Expansion
Mahou’s diversification strategy goes beyond the Spanish market. In 2000, the company acquired a controlling 70% stake in the San Miguel brand from Danone, eventually forming Mahou San Miguel, a fully Spanish-owned brewing group. More recently, Mahou has looked to the U.S. for growth, acquiring a 90% stake in Michigan-based Founders Brewing Co. in 2020 and completing full ownership in March 2025. The acquisition strengthens Mahou’s presence in the U.S., a key market for the group.
Additionally, Mahou owns a majority stake in Colorado’s Avery Brewing, and recently merged Founders and Avery under a new entity, Mahou USA, to streamline operations and compete more effectively in the U.S. market. “Combining Founders and Avery with Mahou Imports into Mahou USA will elevate our presence in the marketplace as we move through 2023 and beyond,” said Elton Andres Knight, CEO of Mahou USA.
UK Distribution Shift
In another strategic move, Mahou San Miguel made waves in the UK market by ending its long-standing exclusive partnership with Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company (CMBC) at the close of 2023. The company has now entrusted the distribution of its flagship brands to Budweiser Brewing Group. Mahou San Miguel’s managing director, Alberto Rodríguez-Toquero, emphasized that this change signals a new chapter for the brand in the UK. “We are confident that Budweiser Brewing Group will help us fulfill our ambitious plans for the San Miguel brand,” he stated.
Mahou San Miguel’s diverse portfolio also includes the Alhambra, Reina, Nomada, and La Salve beer brands, as well as the La Prohibida cider.
With its expansion into wine-based mixed drinks and ongoing international acquisitions, Mahou is positioning itself for continued growth and innovation, both in Spain and abroad.
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