Our Take on Red Horse
At DubaiBottles, we believe that some beers are more than just drinks — they are statements. Red Horse is a bold statement of Filipino brewing prowess. This is the beer that put the Philippines on the global beer map.
Red Horse was launched in 1982 by San Miguel Brewery — one of Southeast Asia’s oldest and most respected brewers, with roots dating back to 1890. The brewery created this beer to meet the growing demand for high‑alcohol brews. This beer quickly became the first extra‑strong beer brand in the Philippines. Today, it’s the number one selling strong beer in Asia and the world.
What Makes It Special
- Type: Extra‑Strong Lager — the original Filipino strong beer, first introduced in 1982.
- Alcohol: 8% ABV — a robust, high‑alcohol lager that delivers a noticeable kick without compromising drinkability.
- Volume: 0.5 L — the flagship 500ml can, the most popular and iconic format.
- Origin: Philippines — crafted by San Miguel Brewery, the country’s largest and most historic brewery.
- Key Ingredients: Select Australian and European malts, premium hops, and a special yeast variety that gives Red Horse its clean, crisp profile.
- Brewing Excellence: Undergoes an extensive fermentation process, resulting in a highly‑drinkable, high‑alcohol beer.
- Awards & Recognition: Red Horse has been consistently recognised at the prestigious Monde Selection Awards and has won multiple gold medals at the Australian International Beer Awards.
Appearance and Aroma
Pour into a glass and you’ll be greeted by a clear, golden‑straw liquid. A thin white lace forms on top. The aroma is clean and inviting, with delicate notes of sweet malt and grain, grassy hops, a touch of sweetness with light honey and cereal grain notes, and a hint of apple with subtle fruity undertones.
Flavor That Tells a Story
On the palate, Red Horse is bold, full‑bodied, and surprisingly smooth. This high‑alcohol lager doesn’t taste like one. The initial impression is a distinctive, sweetish taste that hits the palate up front. A smooth bitterness follows, balancing the sweetness beautifully. Rich, grainy backbone with light honey sweetness comes from the malt. Zesty, spicy‑herbal bitterness is contributed by the hops. Crisp and sharp mouthfeel is surprisingly light for an 8% ABV beer. A well‑rounded and satisfying finish leaves a lasting impression. The alcohol warmth follows through, delivering a satisfying kick. Moreover, this beer makes Red Horse a truly distinctive drinking experience.
Perfect Pairings for Dubai Living
This versatile strong lager is the ultimate companion for any occasion. Here’s how we love to enjoy it:
- With grilled meats and barbecue — the bold flavours stand up to rich, smoky dishes perfectly.
- With spicy Asian cuisine — the sweetness and bitterness balance heat beautifully.
- With poultry and seafood — a surprising yet delicious pairing.
- With burgers and pizza — a classic match for casual dining.
- On its own, well‑chilled — the perfect way to savour a true Filipino icon.
It’s also the perfect companion for a Dubai evening. For example, pour, chill, and enjoy. Additionally, you can explore more beers in our collection.
Serving Tips from Our Cellar
Red Horse is best enjoyed well‑chilled. Ideally served at a temperature of 4–6°C. Store it in the fridge for a few hours before serving. For the perfect pour, use a chilled glass and pour slowly to achieve a clean, crisp head. If you’re ordering delivery in Dubai, we recommend chilling it as soon as it arrives for the perfect drinking experience.
The Story Behind Red Horse
The story of Red Horse begins in 1982, when San Miguel Brewery — a company with a proud heritage dating back to 1890 — introduced a new beer to meet the growing demand for high‑alcohol content brews. This was the first extra‑strong beer brand in the Philippines, created in response to a competitor’s challenge.
The brand quickly gained a loyal following, driven by its bold, distinctive character and its association with strength and resilience. Over the years, Red Horse has grown to become the number one selling strong beer in Asia and the world. You can find it in over 70 countries across the Americas, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia.
The brand’s iconic red horse logo — featuring a smiling horse in older editions — has become a symbol of Filipino pride and brewing excellence. Today, Red Horse continues to push boundaries, with new variants like Red Horse Super (10% ABV) introduced in key African markets in 2024. This beer remains a true taste of Filipino strength and craftsmanship in every sip. Discover more on the official Red Horse website.
Ready to Experience It?
Finally, we’ve sourced this iconic can for you. It’s fresh stock, authentic Filipino beer, and ready for delivery across Dubai. Order now and discover why Red Horse is the perfect choice for those who appreciate bold, full‑flavoured beer with real character. Cheers! 🍺
If you’re looking for a classic Danish pilsner, try our Carlsberg. It’s a crisp, refreshing lager with a perfectly balanced character.
