8 POPULAR SPANISH DRINKS YOU NEED TO TRY
There’s nothing better than sipping a delicious drink on a sunny Spanish terrace and these 8 popular beverages will make the perfect treat whether for lunch, dinner, or an afternoon sip.
Sangría
Sangría is the national drink, so of course we have to include it! Sangría is made by mixing red wine, fresh citrus, a little sugar, and a dash of brandy. Top with ice for the most refreshing of summer sips. You can enjoy Sangría all year round, but most drink it in the summer as a relief from the heat.
Tinto de Verano
Tinto de Verano is an easier version of Sangría that is no less refreshing on a hot summer’s day. This drink, whose name means summer red wine, is a simple yet tasty mix of red wine and lemon soda. It’s fast and cheap to make and the locals drink it all summer. It has sangría’s fruity flavor but, without the brandy, is less alcoholic.
Rebujito
Rebujito is a cocktail hailing from Andalucía that’s a staple during the spring festival season. The key ingredient is sherry, usually Manzanilla or Fino, which is combined with lemon-lime soda and mint leaves to give the sherry a light, refreshing taste. It’s an absolute favorite during the Feria de Abril in Seville, so if you’re in Spain in spring, don’t miss it!
Cerveza
Most agree that beer belongs at the top of a list of popular Spanish drinks. Cerveza is cool and refreshing on hot summer days and hits the spot during lunch or late afternoon. You can order a caña, a small beer, or a copa, a larger one. Different regions have several brands on tap. In Madrid, you’ll find Mahou, in Andalucía there’s Cruzcampo, and in Barcelona, the favorite is Moritz.
Top Tip: Fancy something sweet, light, and refreshing? Order a clara, or a shandy! Perfect for summertime.
Vermút
If you’re a little wary of trying vermút, don’t be! Spanish vermouth is probably different from what springs to mind when you think of vermouth. Vermút is white wine infused with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom and left to age in barrels. Over time, the wine becomes richer, darker, and full of flavor. It is served in a small glass over ice, usually with a slice of orange and olives. Locals enjoy vermút as a pre-lunch aperitif.
See more: A Classic Sangria Recipe You Can Make in Your Own Kitchen
Agua de Valencia
Citrus is one of Valencia’s most famous products and you’ll always be reminded of Valencia when you smell orange zest in the warm summer’s breeze. Agua de Valencia is a Spanish version of a mimosa, bringing together zesty orange juice, bubbly cava, gin, and vodka. It’s easy to make, and the orange juice gives it a nice sweet and sour punch. You can drink Agua de Valencia in a champagne flute or a cocktail glass, depending on your preference.
Cava
Cava is to Spain what Champagne is to France. This sparkling wine is so light, bubbly, and easy to drink that it’s impossible to just have one glass! Cava ranges from brut to sweet, so you have a wide choice depending on how you like your bubbles. Many locals drink cava with Sunday lunch or as the perfect after-meal drink to enjoy with dessert. But let’s be honest, doesn’t a glass of cava go amazingly well with everything?
Sidra
Sidra is another sparkling beverage, Spain’s apple cider. You’d think it’s only popular in the US, UK, and Ireland. But Spaniards love this fermented apple juice, too! They make it from crabapple juice, native to the area, and sweetened with other apple varieties. It’s mainly found in northern regions like País Vasco, Asturias, and Galicia. And there, you can experience the wonderful way bartenders pour sidra… You’ll be amazed!
Ready to clink glasses on a Food Lover Tour?
Are you ready to dive even deeper into the wonderful world of Spanish cuisine? Join a Food Lover Tour to visit authentic places off the beaten path. Our local experts will be thrilled to show you around.