Tropi Crystal Reemerges as a Symbol of Identity, Memory and Resilience
Tropi Crystal is raising its name once again in Miami as far more than a beer. Its relaunch represents the recovery of a family story, a Cuban tradition and a cultural identity that survived for decades far from its roots.Cervecería La Tropical announced a new chapter for the brand after reaching an agreement that resolved a U.S. dispute involving the trade dress rights of Cuba’s original Cristal beer. The outcome allows Tropi Crystal to reclaim essential elements of its identity, trademark registrations and historic legacy.
The announcement marks the culmination of nearly three decades of effort led by Manny Portuondo, founder of Cervecería La Tropical in Miami and a fifth-generation member of the Kohly family. For him, the moment carries a deeply personal meaning.“I couldn’t be happier. One hundred thirty-eight years after the founding of Cervecería La Tropical in Havana, and 98 years after the launch of Cristal beer in Cuba, our brand is back home where it belongs—with its founders,” Portuondo said in an exclusive response to Go Latinos Media.
Cristal was introduced in Havana in 1928 and quickly became one of the island’s most recognizable beers. Although Tropi Crystal returned to the U.S. market in 2023, this latest relaunch marks a decisive turning point: the brand is once again being presented with an identity directly connected to its founding family and the brewing tradition that gave it life.
For Portuondo, the story of Tropi Crystal also reflects the experience of generations forced to rebuild their lives away from their homelands.“Our story is the story of the Cuban people, and of many others who have been forced to leave their countries as a result of communism,” he said. “The relaunch of Tropi Crystal is a symbol that heritage, authenticity, culture and identity can never be stolen. They live in the hearts of exiles. This is our story, and our story is worth fighting for.”
Brewed as a refreshing Caribbean-style pilsner and inspired by the original 1928 recipe, Tropi Crystal aims to preserve the flavor associated with memories, celebrations and traditions shared by generations of Cuban families on and off the island.
Niek Vonk, CEO of Cervecería La Tropical in Miami, said the company plans to honor the brand’s authentic image while expanding its distribution and introducing it to new generations of consumers across the United States.
The relaunch was celebrated during the Tropi Crystal Family Reunion, held July 8 at Cervecería La Tropical in Miami’s Wynwood district. The gathering brought together members of the media, strategic partners, community leaders and guests to recognize a story shaped by perseverance, cultural pride and belonging.
Tropi Crystal is currently available at select retailers, restaurants, bars and hospitality venues throughout South Florida.
For more information, visit www.cervecerialatropical.com/tropicrystal or follow the brand on social media at @CervezaCrystal.
