One of the greatest pleasures is beverages. Not only is it a pleasure in itself, but when cooking it is important to add a touch of good wine; it is such an integral part of their culture.
Regarding that, here we present the best Spanish drinks, some very famous, others less known, in this brief overview of the main alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages loved by Spaniards.
The Sangria
It is probably the symbol of the typical alcoholic drink of Spain, everyone knows sangria, a beverage made from red wine, pieces of fruit such as orange, apple, and peach, where citrus predominates, and a touch of cointreau or rum is added. It is served in medium or large pitchers.
Fernet de verano
If you fancy a light and refreshing drink, try Verano Tinto. It’s a very simple mix of red wine and lemonade, usually served in a tall glass with ice cubes, and is very popular in Andalusia. It is served in the summer season and is one of the most popular drinks.
Vino de Rioja
La Rioja is an autonomous region in northern Spain. The region gives its name to the best Spanish wine. The most famous Rioja wines are reds, perfect for cooking steaks and other dishes. There are also rosé and lesser-known red wines, which are quite appreciated as well.
Cava Wine
Cava is a sparkling wine, usually dry, which plays an important role in Catalan gastronomy. It is ideal for an aperitif, and can also accompany traditional Catalan poultry dishes with fruits. It is Spain's equivalent of Champagne, although sweeter and more fruity, produced in Catalonia. The most famous brand is Freixenet, which accounts for about half of cava production that is also exported worldwide.
Horchata
It is the famous drink from Valencia, also called "orxata." It is made from tiger nuts, a plant with a flavor very similar to almonds, mixed with water and sugar. It is served cold with plenty of crushed ice. It is one of the summer star drinks across Spain, very refreshing during heat waves. It is commonly seen served in homes, bars, restaurants, and cafés in cities.
Licor Cuarenta y Tres (Licor 43)
This is the most exported Spanish liqueur worldwide. As its name indicates, it is made of 43 ingredients, including citrus, herbs, spices, and vanilla. It has a yellow, thick texture, with a warm flavor that includes hints of chocolate and banana. It is usually served with ice and is slightly sweet but with a dry finish.
