“I’m planning a trip to Spain and I want to know what are the typical Spanish drinks I should try while I’m there. Are there any iconic drinks like wine, cocktails, or local specialties that I should definitely order?”
Spain is known for its rich culinary culture, and just as its food is diverse, so are its drinks. Whether you enjoy wine, refreshing cocktails, or traditional beverages, Spain offers a variety of drinks that perfectly complement its cuisine. Below are some typical Spanish drinks you should try to make your Spanish experience complete.
1. Sangría
Perhaps one of the most famous Spanish drinks, sangría is a fruit wine punch that originated in Spain. Typically made with red wine, fruit juices, brandy, and fresh fruits like oranges, lemons, and berries, this refreshing drink is perfect for hot summer days and social gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of red wine (Spanish wines like Tempranillo or Garnacha are popular choices)
- 1/4 cup brandy
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, depending on sweetness preference)
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 apple, sliced
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- In a large pitcher, combine the wine, brandy, and fruit juices.
- Add the sliced fruit and sugar (if desired), then stir well.
- Let the sangría chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours to let the flavors blend.
- Serve over ice in glasses and enjoy!
2. Tinto de Verano
Tinto de verano is a simpler alternative to sangría but just as refreshing. It consists of red wine mixed with lemon soda (like Sprite or Lemon Fanta) and served over ice. It’s a popular drink, especially in the summer months.
Ingredients:
- 1 glass of red wine (again, a Spanish wine like Rioja or Tempranillo works great)
- Lemon soda (like Sprite, Fanta, or a similar lemon-flavored drink)
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Pour the red wine halfway into the glass.
- Top off with lemon soda and stir gently.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
3. Cerveza (Beer)
Beer is extremely popular in Spain, and you’ll find many types of local beers available in bars and restaurants. Some of the most famous Spanish beer brands include Estrella Damm, Mahou, and Cruzcampo. If you prefer something lighter, you can try a caña, which is a small glass of draft beer typically served with tapas.
Popular Spanish Beer Brands:
- Estrella Damm (from Barcelona)
- Mahou (from Madrid)
- Cruzcampo (from Seville)
- Alhambra (from Granada)
4. Vermut (Vermouth)
A Spanish vermouth (locally called vermut) is an aperitif typically enjoyed before meals, especially on weekends. Vermut is a fortified wine flavored with botanicals like herbs, spices, and citrus. It’s often served with an ice cube and a slice of orange or olive as garnish.
Popular Spanish Vermouth Brands:
- Vermut Yzaguirre (from Reus)
- Vermut Casa Mariol (from Catalonia)
- Vermut Miró (from Reus)
How to Serve:
- Pour vermouth into a glass with ice.
- Add a slice of orange or an olive for garnish.
- Sip slowly and savor the unique herbal flavors.
5. Horchata de Chufa
Horchata de chufa is a traditional Spanish drink made from tigernuts (chufa) and sugar. It’s most commonly associated with the Valencia region, where it’s a popular summer drink. It has a sweet, creamy texture, and is usually served very cold, making it perfect for hot days.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chufa (tigernuts)
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- Soak the chufa nuts in water for about 12 hours.
- Blend the soaked nuts with fresh water until smooth.
- Strain the mixture through a fine cloth or mesh sieve to remove the solid parts.
- Add sugar to the strained liquid and mix well.
- Serve cold with ice, and garnish with a pinch of cinnamon if desired.
6. Café con Leche
In Spain, café con leche (coffee with milk) is a beloved drink, often consumed at breakfast or after a meal. It’s similar to a latte, made with strong espresso and steamed milk. This drink is a common choice in the morning, often accompanied by a croissant or a tostada (toasted bread with tomato and olive oil).
How to Prepare:
- Brew a shot of espresso.
- Steam or heat milk until frothy.
- Pour the espresso into a cup and top with hot milk.
- Stir and enjoy with a sweet pastry or a slice of toast.
7. Sidra (Cider)
In the Asturias and Basque Country regions of Spain, sidra (Spanish cider) is a popular drink, especially during festivals and social gatherings. Spanish cider is made from fermented apples, and it has a tangy, slightly tart flavor. It’s traditionally poured from a height to aerate the drink and create a slight fizz.
How to Serve:
- Pour sidra from a height into a glass, which helps release its flavors and create some carbonation.
- Enjoy it as an accompaniment to traditional Asturian food or tapas.
8. Clásico (Coca-Cola with Wine)
Yes, you read that right—Coca-Cola and red wine! This unique combination is popular among younger people in Spain and is sometimes referred to as a “Clásico” or “Kalimotxo” (in the Basque Country). It’s a refreshing drink, especially when served over ice.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 glass red wine
- 1/2 glass Coca-Cola
Instructions:
- Pour the red wine into a glass.
- Add an equal amount of Coca-Cola.
- Serve chilled over ice and enjoy!
9. Licor 43
Licor 43 is a Spanish liqueur made from a mix of citrus fruits, vanilla, and herbs. Its sweet and smooth flavor is often enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a base for cocktails. It’s popular in the southern regions of Spain and has a very distinct, smooth taste.
How to Serve:
- Serve Licor 43 chilled over ice.
- It can also be added to coffee or used in cocktails like a Licor 43 and milk (similar to a creamy cocktail).
10. Zumo de Naranja Natural (Fresh Orange Juice)
In Spain, freshly squeezed orange juice is often served for breakfast or as a refreshing drink during the day. Spain is famous for its oranges, especially in regions like Valencia, so you’ll find that the juice is incredibly sweet and fresh.
How to Serve:
- Squeeze fresh oranges until you have enough juice.
- Serve over ice if desired, and enjoy the natural, vibrant flavor of the juice.
Typical Spanish Drinks Summary
| Drink | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Sangría | Fruit wine punch with wine, fruit juices, and brandy. | Social gatherings, summer afternoons. |
| Tinto de Verano | Red wine mixed with lemon soda. | Summer days, casual outings. |
| Cerveza | Spanish beer (Estrella Damm, Mahou, etc.). | Paired with tapas or casual meals. |
| Vermut | Fortified wine with botanicals, often served as an aperitif. | Before meals, socializing. |
| Horchata de Chufa | Sweet drink made from tigernuts and sugar. | Hot summer days, refreshing treat. |
| Café con Leche | Espresso with steamed milk, like a latte. | Breakfast, after meals. |
| Sidra | Spanish cider, typically from Asturias or the Basque Country. | Social gatherings, festivals. |
| Clásico | A mix of Coca-Cola and red wine, popular among youth. | Fun, casual drinks with friends. |
| Licor 43 | Sweet citrusy liqueur, often served with coffee or on the rocks. | After dinner or in cocktails. |
| Zumo de Naranja | Freshly squeezed orange juice, often from Valencia. | Breakfast, morning refresh |
Discovering Spanish Drinks
Whether you’re enjoying a glass of sangría on a sunny terrace, sipping on a cool tinto de verano, or unwinding with a classic café con leche, Spain offers a drink for every occasion. Embrace these iconic Spanish beverages, and experience the country’s culture through its flavorful drinks! Cheers or ¡Salud!
