Mexican twins Isidoro and Benjamín Haber, known on TikTok as "Si Somos Gemelos," have gained popularity for their review videos and culinary adventures. They surprised their followers with a new critique. This time, they focused on Palma beer, an imitation of Cristal, the most famous beer in Cuba.
In their video, the twins pointed out that Cristal is marketed outside of Cuba as Palma beer, due to it being a registered brand on the island. They added that it can sometimes be found as Palma Cristal.
However, the surprise came when it was time to rate the drink, which is one of the most favored by Cuban drinkers.
These two brothers, who do not consider themselves experts in beers, said that in their experience, they have tried others with more body and flavor, suggesting that there are better options available in the market.
"I can really taste the hops," one of them said.
For the other person, the Palma beer "is easy to drink, it's good, but I think there are many better beers than this one. I wouldn't choose it if I went to the supermarket."
"It's good, it doesn't take many risks honestly, and I think it still lacks quite a bit to be the best in the world," added the first brother.
Both rated the drink a 75 out of 100 and placed it 14th out of 18 beers they have tried so far.
According to their personal list, Sapporo (Japan), Gallo (Guatemala), and Kronenbourg (France) take the top spots in that order. Meanwhile, Peroni (Italy), Mahou (Spain), and Bud Light (United States) round out the list.
The twins made it clear that their content has a single purpose: to entertain. "It's a beer that fulfills its role," they added about La Palma. "And as you know, we are not experts. We're just two regular guys trying a beer for the first time."
With over four million followers on TikTok, Isidoro and Benjamín told local media that their main tourist attraction whenever they travel is going to the supermarket.
On their platform, they focus on testing the most extravagant products they encounter along the way. Thus, they saw an opportunity during the pandemic to turn one of their favorite hobbies into a means to entertain, responsibly inform, entice, and even do business.
At 23 years old, they see gastronomy as a fascinating space for creating content on social media, which not only entertains viewers but also introduces millions to flavors and textures they may have never seen or imagined.
Cristal beer is one of the most iconic in Cuba, produced by Cervecería Bucanero SA in the province of Holguín. With over 75 years in the market, it is known as "The Favorite of Cuba" for its light and refreshing taste, perfect for the island's tropical climate.
However, in April 2023, Cristal was ranked among the worst beers in the world, according to the specialized site BeerAdvocate, receiving a score of 65, classified as "poor." More than 30,000 beers would be rated higher than the Cuban Cristal in that ranking.
On the other hand, Palma beer has sparked controversy in Miami. Although its branding resembles that of the famous Cuban Cristal, Palma does not originate from Cuba. It is produced in Nicaragua and imported to the United States by a California-based company. Its presence in the market has confused consumers who initially believed it was a Cuban product.
In addition, in July 2021, it was reported that Cuban-American businessman Tony Haber acquired the rights to the Cristal brand in Europe, after the Cuban government did not renew the payment for the brand rights on that continent. This allowed the beer to be marketed in Miami under the name "Mi Cristal."
These situations reflect the complexity and disputes surrounding Cuban beer brands in the international market, as well as the perceptions and evaluations they receive both on the island and abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions about Palma and Cristal Cuban Beer
Why is Palma beer confused with Cuban Cristal?
Palma beer mimics the image of the Cuban Cristal, which has caused confusion among consumers. Although it is marketed as Palma Cristal, it does not originate from Cuba; rather, it is produced in Nicaragua and imported to the United States.
What do the Mexican twins think about Palma beer?
The twins Isidoro and Benjamín Haber rated the Palma beer as a pleasant but not exceptional drink. They gave it a score of 75/100 and mentioned that there are other beers with more body and flavor that they prefer.
How is Cristal beer valued in the international market?
According to the specialized site BeerAdvocate, Cristal beer was ranked among the worst in the world in 2023, receiving a score of 65. This places it below more than 30,000 beers in the global ranking.
Why did Cristal beer change its name in Miami?
Cristal beer began to be marketed in Miami under the name "Mi Cristal" after Cuban-American businessman Tony Haber acquired the brand rights in Europe. This occurred because the Cuban government did not renew the payment for the brand rights on that continent.
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