For a country that’s synonymous with fun, fiesta, and a good time, drinks in Spain are an integral part of their life. Spain is home to some of the best wines in the world, but some non-alcoholic drinks are also worth discovering. This article presents a curated selection of 18 famous Spanish drinks, encompassing both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.
Alcoholic Drinks
1. Sangria
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Sangria is made by mixing white or red wine with fruits (apples, peaches, nectarines, or pears) and sugar. Sangria made by white wine is called sangria blanca.
2. Cava
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Made mostly in the Penedes region of Catalonia, Cava is also known as champana among Catalonians. There are rosé and white cava and is produced similarly to French Champagne.
3. Sherry
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Sherry comes from Marco de Jerez, in Southern Spain. The name is derived from the Arabic word sherish. It is wine mixed with other alcohol, and when ordering in Spain, you can request ‘vino de Jerez’.
4. Tinto De Verano
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Made by mixing red wine, lemon soda (Casera brand), and ice. A preferred drink among locals since it is not as expensive as Sangria.
5. Albariño
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Albariño is made from the white grape variety found in Galicia (northwest Spain). Considered a very versatile wine that can be paired with Asian cuisine. It has the aroma of melon, pineapple, white peach, apricot, and honeysuckle.
6. Tempranillo
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Red wine made with red grape variety from the Iberian Peninsula. Tempranillo grapes are used in the Rioja blend.
Dominant flavors include cherry, dried fig, cedar, and tobacco. Suitable to be paired with smoked sausages, pasta, and roasted vegetables.
7. Vermouth
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Red and sweet wine with a rich aroma, Vermouth wine has been flavored with herbs and spices such as cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon, giving this Spanish wine its dark color.
Spanish vermouth in Madrid is served on tap while in Catalan it is served from bottles. The best vermouth is said to be from Catalonia.
Non-Alcoholic Drinks
8. Orange Juice
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Ah, the staple of Spanish breakfast and always freshly squeezed. Head to any café and you are bound to get your dose of fresh orange juice made on the spot.
9. Agua De Valencia
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A drink with a story. It was created when a bartender was challenged to create a new drink. The original version included gin and vodka, but non-alcoholic versions are also available.
It is made using sparkling water, fresh orange juice, ice, sugar, and of course, Valencia oranges.
10. Limonada
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Made with lemon, sugar, and water. Yes, it sounds like lemonade and it is served cold. Limonada is very popular during festivals and street fairs.
11. Clara
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A concoction of lemon-lime soda and non-alcoholic beer. Refreshing on a summer day while you relax in a café.
12. Granizado De Limon
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Similar to limonada except that it is a slushie. You can find it in most ice cream shops.
13. Mosto
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The wine substitute is believed to come with many health perks, such as dealing with lethargy and improving your immune system.
14. Horchata De Chufa
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This is a nut-based drink made by blending overnight soaked chufa nuts, water, lemon zest, sugar, and cinnamon. Suitable for vegans, but not for those with a nut allergy.
15. Chocolate a la taza
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In other words, hot chocolate. A favorite during winter, chocolate la taza is made from milk, sugar, and dark chocolate.
16. Café Bombón
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It’s basically just espresso with condensed milk and milk. Café Bombón has a very thick texture and rich flavor, suitable for those who are coffee and sweet lovers.
17. Café Con Leche
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You can find this coffee as a breakfast beverage. Similar to café bombon except that it is made with steamed milk. A perfect accompaniment to Spanish breakfast, which is another tradition that you have to try.
18. Leche Merengada
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If café con leche is for breakfast, then leche merengada is a favorite for merienda (late afternoon snack time). It’s a milk-based beverage made with cinnamon, lemon, sugar, and egg whites.
