The Spanish are known for their love of food and drink, so it’s no surprise that the country has some delicious drinks to offer. Whether you like sweet or savory, alcoholic or non-alcoholic, there is something for everyone.
There are many popular Spanish drinks. Some of the most popular drinks in Spain are sangria, wine, coffee, and horchata.
Spanish drinks are a great way to experience and enjoy Spanish culture. A lot of people know about some popular Spanish drinks, but there are many other unique Spanish drinks that you should add to your list.
This blog will give you an introduction to some of the most popular Spanish beverages and highlight their flavors, ingredients, and how they originated.
Sangria
Sangria is a popular Spanish drink that originated in the 1940s during the Spanish Civil War.
Sangria is made with wine, fruit, sugar, and brandy or vodka. The name sangria comes from the word “sangre” which means blood in Portuguese and Spanish. This could be because people would drink it to feel more energized after they were cut up by swords on the battlefield.
Sangria was traditionally served cold but now you can find it at room temperature as well. Some of its most common ingredients are oranges, lemons, apples, grapes, pears and berries like raspberries or strawberries. These ingredients give this drink a sweet taste with an alcoholic kick! The alcohol content ranges anywhere from 8% to 14%.
This Spanish drink is now commonly served throughout the world and can be found at restaurants and bars. You can also find variations of this drink in other countries like Portugal, Mexico, Chile, France and Greece.
Horchata
Horchata is another popular drink in Spain. It is also one of the most popular drinks among Hispanic countries like Mexico and Brazil. In Brazil, it’s usually made from rice, milk, sugar and cinnamon. However, horchata in Spain is usually made from almonds or tiger nuts (also known as chufas).
In Spain, this drink can be found throughout the summer months at bars and restaurants. Its creamy texture makes it a great choice for a hot day. Some places also add alcohol to their mixes for an even stronger punch! This Spanish drink has a nutty flavor that goes well with ice cubes or blended into a frozen slushy.
Coffee
Spain actually consumes more coffee per capita than any other country in the world.
Coffee is a staple in Spain and it’s an important part of their culture. In fact, some people even have a “reunión del café,” which means coffee meeting, after work or school with their friends. Spanish cafés are also different than cafes in other countries.
They usually stay open until midnight to allow for night owls who still want to socialize at that hour! The flavors of these Spanish drinks range from French Vanilla Coffee to Mexican Coffee.
Wine
Spain produces more wine than almost any other country, so naturally many of its people partake in drinking it frequently throughout the year! It’s not common for someone to drink this alcoholic beverage on its own though.
It’s usually paired with food during dinner. But wine can also be enjoyed at social gatherings like parties and weddings. The most popular wines in Spain are reds, but they do produce some white wines as well.
Hot Chocolate
Who doesn’t love drinking something warm and comforting during the cold winter months? Hot chocolate is another popular Spanish drink that is frequently enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
This creamy beverage has a thick consistency to it and can be made into different flavors like vanilla, peppermint, strawberry or lemon. Some people also make it with spices like cinnamon.
This Spanish drink is typically made from water, cocoa powder, sugar, milk and cream instead of steamed milk like other types of hot chocolate. It’s usually served in a mug or bowl with a spoon so you can eat the leftovers!
Cortado
This Spanish drink is a type of espresso that’s mixed with steamed milk and foam. This drink has become very popular all over the world. In fact, it’s one of the most ordered drinks at American coffee shops today!
The best part about this beverage is it doesn’t have as much caffeine as a regular cup of coffee so you can enjoy it throughout the day.
Apple Cider
Spain produces more apples than any other country in the world. This means Apple Cider and other apple products like Apple Juice and Applesauce are popular drinks in Spain!
This drink is made from fermented apple juice and has a sweet yet sour taste to it depending on how it’s prepared. It can be enjoyed throughout the year, but some people prefer it cold during the summer months while others enjoy drinking this Spanish beverage warm during winter time!
Carajillo
This Spanish drink is actually considered a cocktail rather than an actual beverage. It’s made from black coffee, brandy or rum and sugar. This alcoholic drink has become very popular at bars when people are looking for something to satisfy their sweet tooth!
It’s usually served in a glass with sugar and water on the side. If you want to enjoy this beverage without alcohol, ask for it sin alcohol (without alcohol).
Café con Leche
This Spanish drink is another way to enjoy coffee. This creamy Spanish drink is made from espresso, steamed milk and lots of sugar! It’s delicious but isn’t the healthiest choice on this list. Nevertheless, it’s still a favorite for many people worldwide.
Agua de Valencia
This Spanish drink is made from orange juice, vodka, lemonade and grenadine. The drink’s name comes from the city of Valencia which has a similar climate to Florida.
It became popular during the 1920s when it was first served at beachfront bars like Las Arenas and Café de Paris.
Tinto de Verano
The literal translation for this Spanish drink is “red wine summer.” This beverage consists of red wine, lemon soda and fruit garnish. However, some people may add ice cubes as well depending on their personal preference!
When ordering this Spanish drink you’ll need to know how much red wine you want in your drink because it can be mixed either “con” orsin” (with or without).
Gin and Tonic
Spain has started to gain a reputation as a wine country, but they also produce some delicious gin too! The most popular way to serve this unique Spanish drink is with tonic water and ice cubes.
Sometimes people will mix it with citrus juice for an extra zest like their friend’s do in the UK. If you’re not into drinking alcohol or want something lighter, then ask for it sin alcohol (without alcohol) instead of con (with).
Rebujito
This Spanish drink is actually a cocktail made from a mixture of Sherry, Manzanilla or Fino and a soft drink, usually white lemonade or lime soda. This classy beverage has become quite popular throughout Andalusia especially in the summertime so you’ll likely see it on the menu at any restaurant!
Rebujito’s appeal lies in its refreshing taste. Even though it contains the same amount of alcohol as other cocktails, it tastes much fresher, especially in hot weather. Mint leaves and lime can also add freshness.
Beer (Cerveza)
In Spanish, cerveza means beer and it’s one of the most popular Spanish drinks around! This refreshing beverage has been enjoyed by many people throughout Spain and the world for a very long time.
There are a variety of different kinds of beer in Spain including dark, light, lager or stout so you can really get a taste of everything!
Kalimotxo
This Spanish drink is one of the most famous cocktails in all of Spain. It’s made from equal parts red wine and cola which makes it sound super unhealthy but don’t let that fool you!
When served in a tall glass over ice, this Spanish drink becomes much more refreshing than you’d expect so it’s definitely worth trying at least once.
Final Words
It’s time to stop searching for the best places to enjoy these popular Spanish drinks and start drinking them! Don’t let the long list of ingredients scare you, just visit your local grocery store or supermarket and pick out your favorites. Most importantly, remember to drink responsibly no matter which beverage you choose. Cheers!
Thanks for reading! Don’t forget to give your opinion about popular Spanish drinks on comment below!
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