I’m taking you on a little tour of Spanish cocktails today. Whenever I’m stuck in a cooking rut, I shake things up with some authentic tapas and a gorgeous Spanish drink. These 10 recipes are incredible, and they’re a perfect place to start.
1. Sangria
Sangria is basically the poster child for Spanish cocktails. The name traces back to the word for blood, thanks to
2. Cuba Libre
The Cuba Libre might be a beloved Cuban drink, but its name is Spanish for “free Cuba.” Legend has it a U.S. Army captain invented it during the Spanish American War as a toast to Cuban independence. Origin story aside, it’s an exceptional three ingredient cocktail: dark rum, Coca Cola, and a wedge of lime. Simple and perfect.
3. Tinto de Verano
Tinto de verano translates to “summer red wine,” and honestly, could there be a more perfect name for this vivacious little sipper? It’s like sangria’s lighter, less boozy cousin.
You’ll mix a medium bodied red wine with fizzy 7 Up and a bounty of fresh fruit. I’m talking grapefruit, oranges, lemon, and lime. So refreshing.
4. White Sangria
To finish your Spanish cocktail tour, I’m handing you a pitcher of sparkling white sangria. I’m a red wine lover, but using white wine makes this sangria so light and crisp.
This ridiculously easy recipe comes together in minutes and feeds a whole crew. Just mix a full bottle of white wine with brandy, peach schnapps, and prosecco in a big pitcher.
5. Asiático
And yes, Spain does coffee cocktails beautifully too. One of my absolute favorites is the Asiático.
It transforms hot espresso into the most relaxing after dinner drink. The secret is all in layering everything in the right order.
6. Agua de Valencia
If you’re making a Spanish tortilla for brunch, keep the vibe going with a carafe of Agua de Valencia. Think of it as Spain’s answer to a mimosa.
It starts with cava, a Spanish sparkling wine, so check the label for your preferred sweetness level. Then you add freshly squeezed orange juice, plus a splash of gin and vodka. Yes, it’s a little boozier, and it’s dangerously delicious.
7. Kalimotxo
Kalimotxo (or calimocho) is another Spanish summer stunner you need to know. It’s simply red wine and Coke mixed together.
I know, it sounds a little strange, but trust me on this one, it totally works. Just use equal parts of both, pop in a lemon wedge, and you’re done. It’s the kind of drink you’ll want to have memorized for surprise guests.
8. Clara Beer (Clara Con Limón)
I’ve talked wine and spirits, but let’s not forget about beer. Beer is huge in Spain, and one of their favorite ways to enjoy it is Clara beer, also called Clara Con Limón. It’s the perfect thing for beating that summer heat, and it practically begs to be paired with lunch.
9. Spanish Gin and Tonic
So how do you turn a gin and tonic into a Spanish cocktail? It’s all about the garnishes.
I’m talking a gorgeous medley of peppercorns, rosemary, lemon, anything that makes the flavors and aromatics sing together. And of course, you’ll want a really good gin and tonic to start. This recipe calls for Diplome dry gin and Fever Tree tonic water.
10. Rebujito
Rebujito comes from Andalusia and it’s a straight up festival in a glass. Sherry is the star here, mixed with lemon lime soda and a sprig of fresh mint.
It takes just minutes to make and happens to be low carb. You can mix up a pitcher for a crowd or pour it over ice for solo sipping.