Murcia lager named World’s Best Dortmunder at International Beer Awards 2026

A locally crafted beer from the Region of Murcia has captured international recognition. Reserva 60, a premium creation by Spanish brewery Estrella de Levante, has been named the world’s best Dortmunder-style lager at the prestigious 2026 World Beer Awards, marking a great moment of pride for the region and its beer artisans.

The world’s best beers: Celebrating six decades of brewing

Originally crafted to commemorate Estrella de Levante’s 60th anniversary, Reserva 60 was designed as a sophisticated, more intense evolution of the brand’s original lager. The award has established Murcia’s place on the global brewing scene, proving that traditional regional breweries can compete against the finest beers in the world.

A bright amber colour, light malt notes, and fruity undertones: Local Murcian hops and a balanced taste profile

The award-winning brew features a 6.2 per cent alcohol by volume and a bitterness rating of 24 IBUs. In the glass, it pours with a bright amber hue, topped with a thick and creamy white head. The award-winning beer delivers lightly toasted malt notes, balanced with subtle fruity undertones, as well as a creamy, full-bodied structure that maintains the crisp finish associated with a classic lager. 

One of its most important and defining features is that the recipe stays deeply connected to its Murcian roots by using hops cultivated in Caravaca de la Cruz.

Expert recommendations for serving this exquisite beer

Master Brewer Ana Belén López emphasised that the core objective was to create a beer with body and personality that remains genuinely refreshing in the warm Mediterranean climate. She recommends serving the lager between 6°C and 8°C to allow its full aromatic profile to take centre stage.

Global recognition for Murcian craft: Where to find the Reserva 60 lager in Spain

The World Beer Awards, established in the United Kingdom in 2007, evaluates entries through rigorous tastings across dozens of categories and with strict criteria. Securing the title of World’s Best Dortmunder not only rewards the brewery’s efforts to innovate, but also honours its Murcian heritage. As Communication Director Yayo Delgado noted, Reserva 60 strikes a perfect balance between complex depth and everyday drinkability. Now available across supermarkets, bars, and restaurants throughout southeastern Spain, including in Murcia, Alicante, Albacete, and Almeria, this celebrated lager offers beer enthusiasts a world-class taste of Mediterranean brewing expertise.