Top 7 Spanish Alcoholic Drinks & Cocktails
There is something special about the unique flavors of Spanish alcoholic drinks and cocktails. From the refreshingly sweet White and Red Sangrias to the herbaceous Red Vermouth, Spain has a wide selection of delicious drinks that are perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re looking to cool off on a hot summer day or are in search of something to accompany a tapas dish, Spanish cocktails are sure to please everyone. So let’s explore this unique selection of drinks and discover something new and exciting!
1. Rebujito
As a lover of all things Spanish, I have to say that one of my favorite cocktails is Rebujito. This light, refreshing drink is a staple at many celebrations in Spain, from spring and summer festivals to weddings to simple backyard barbecues.
Made with equal parts fino sherry and lemon-lime soda, Rebujito is the perfect combination of sweet and tangy. It is served in an ice-filled highball or Collins glass with a sprig of mint or a squeeze of fresh lime for an extra burst of flavor.
Rebujito originated in Andalusia, where it was first concocted as a way to cool off on hot summer days. Nowadays, it’s consumed all over Spain and is even gaining popularity in other parts of Europe.
If you’re ever in Spain, be sure to try this delicious cocktail — it’s the perfect way to toast a celebration or simply enjoy a lazy afternoon with friends!
2. Calimocho (aka Kalimotxo)
Have you ever tried Calimocho? Let me tell you, it’s a Spanish cocktail that’s worth a try! The name might sound a bit intimidating, but it’s actually super easy to make. All you need is some red wine and a can of Coca-Cola. Yup, that’s it!
Pour half a glass of red wine and top it off with an equal amount of Coke. You can adjust the alcoholic strength by adding more or less wine. Although some people use cheap wine, it is best made with dry and tannic red wines of good quality. There are some variations that include using anise extract, Ouzo, and lime or lemon twist.
Although it’s a humble mix of two beverages, Calimocho has an interesting history. It was popularized in the Basque region of Spain during the 1970s and has been a staple party drink ever since. The locals call it “Kalimotxo,” and it’s often enjoyed at festivals and outdoor gatherings. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
3. White Sangria
I was first introduced to White Sangria on a hot summer day while vacationing in Spain. This refreshing cocktail became an instant favorite and quickly replaced my go-to margarita.
White Sangria originated in Spain and is typically made in a pitcher with white wine, sugar, citrus juice, and chopped fruit such as peaches, apples, pears, berries, oranges, limes, lemons, melons, and plums. It should be left to macerate overnight for the best taste and then served well-chilled with some fresh fruit added just before serving.
For a variation, some people add brandy, rum, or triple sec, and soda or sparkling water. I really like the versatile nature of this cocktail that allows for endless variations.
This drink is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing afternoon by the pool. It pairs well with Spanish seafood dishes or even a cheese board. So grab a pitcher, gather some friends, and enjoy a taste of Spain with this delicious and timeless cocktail.
4. Red Vermouth
As I sat at a quaint little bar in Madrid, I couldn’t help but indulge in my favorite Spanish cocktail — Red Vermouth. This sweet and herbaceous drink has been enjoyed in Spanish culture for centuries and has now become a popular trend in the cocktail world.
It’s made with a blend of wine, herbs, and roots that are macerated together to create a unique flavor profile. Some of the key ingredients in classic Red Vermouth include wormwood, cinnamon, and citrus peels.
Interestingly, the drink was originally created for its medicinal properties — it is believed to aid digestion and improve overall health. Nowadays, it’s a delicious tipple that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a key ingredient in numerous cocktails.
So, next time you’re in Spain, be sure to stop by a local bar and try a traditional Red Vermouth — it’s a taste of history in a glass!
5. Agua de Valencia
As someone who loves a good cocktail, I have to say that Agua de Valencia is one of my new favorites.
Originating in Valencia, Spain, this colorful concoction is made with fresh squeezed orange juice, cava (a Spanish sparkling wine), gin, and vodka. Everything is combined in a pitcher which is then chilled. It is then served in cocktail glasses and garnished with fresh fruit.
Legend has it that it was first created in 1959 by Constante Gil at Café Madrid de Valencia. Today, Agua de Valencia can be found in bars and restaurants throughout Spain, but it’s still a bit of a hidden gem elsewhere in the world.
If you’re looking for a fun, fruity way to toast to summer, give Agua de Valencia a try!
6. Tinto de Verano
Have you ever visited Spain and tried a Tinto de Verano? If not, you definitely need to. This refreshing Spanish cocktail is perfect for a hot summer day. The name literally means “red wine of summer,” and that’s exactly what this drink is.
It’s made by combining red wine and lemon-lime soda (usually La Casera is used but can be subbed with Sprite or 7-Up combined with sparkling water), and sometimes a slice of lemon or an orange. It’s a simple cocktail to make, but the result is delicious.
Interestingly, Tinto de Verano was actually created as a way to make red wine taste better when it’s hot outside. In the 1960s, a bartender named Enrique Bardají mixed red wine with soda, and the resulting drink became popular in Spain, and now, it’s enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
One of the great things about Tinto de Verano is that it’s not too strong, so you can sip it all day long without getting too tipsy. If you’re planning a trip to Spain, make sure you try Tinto de Verano at least once — or why not whip up a batch at home?
7. Red Sangria
As a lover of all things cocktail-related, I have to admit that there’s something special about a good batch of sangria. And when it comes to that deep, rich, red hue, nothing beats a classic Red Sangria.
Originating in Spain, this delicious beverage has been enjoyed for centuries, and for good reason! The combination of red wine, sparkling water, sugar, brandy, and orange juice, along with a selection of fresh sliced fruit (like pears, berries, apples, peaches, nectarines, and/or pineapples) makes for a refreshing and satisfying drink that’s perfect for any occasion!
Whether you’re enjoying it on a hot summer day or sipping it alongside your favorite tapas dish, Red Sangria — served in an ice-filled glass and garnished with a cinnamon stick and an orange slice — provides a taste of Spanish culture that’s hard to resist. So next time you’re looking for a drink that packs a punch, be sure to give Red Sangria a try!
Wrapping It Up
Spanish alcoholic drinks and cocktails are some of the most unique and delicious beverages that you can find. From the classic White Sangria to the more obscure Agua de Valencia, these drinks offer a wide variety of flavor profiles that will excite your taste buds.
Perfect for hot summer days or relaxing evenings with friends, these Spanish drinks are sure to help you make the most of your special occasions. So grab a pitcher, gather some friends, and enjoy a taste of Spain with these delicious and timeless beverages!
Salud!
