I’ve fallen head over heels for Tinto de Verano, Spain’s best-kept summer secret. This invigorating wine cocktail is what I reach for when sangria feels too fussy but I still want something cool and Spanish. It’s ridiculously simple – just red wine and lemon soda over ice – but somehow captures the essence of Mediterranean afternoons better than drinks requiring twice the effort. Want to know why Spaniards choose this over sangria during the hottest months? There’s more to this breezy sipper than meets the eye.
What Ingredients are in Refreshing Spanish Tinto de Verano?
Tinto de Verano is Spain’s beloved summer drink—less fussy than sangria but just as invigorating. This simple wine cocktail literally translates to “red wine of summer,” and it’s what locals reach for when the Mediterranean sun beats down on Spanish plazas.
I love how straightforward this classic recipe is, requiring just a handful of ingredients that create magic when combined.
- 4 ounces red wine (preferably a young, fruity, medium-bodied Spanish wine)
- 4 ounces lemon-flavored soda (such as Fanta Limón or Sprite)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon or orange slice for garnish
When selecting your ingredients, the quality of wine matters—but don’t go overboard. Unlike sangria, which can hide a multitude of sins in a less-than-stellar wine, Tinto de Verano‘s simplicity means the wine’s character comes through.
Spanish wines like Tempranillo or Garnacha work beautifully, but any fruity red without heavy tannins will do nicely. As for the soda, traditional Spanish Fanta Limón offers authenticity, but Sprite or any lemon-lime soda makes a perfectly acceptable substitute.
Want it less sweet? Some folks prefer mixing with soda water and adding a splash of lemon juice instead.
How to Make this Refreshing Spanish Tinto de Verano
Making Tinto de Verano couldn’t be simpler—it’s the kind of drink that makes you wonder why all cocktails can’t be this straightforward.
Start by filling a tall glass with ice cubes, which will keep your summer cooler properly chilled as you sip it on a warm afternoon. Next, pour in 4 ounces of red wine, preferably something fruity and medium-bodied that won’t overpower the drink with heavy tannins. The wine forms the backbone of this Spanish classic, so while you needn’t use your finest bottle, don’t go for something you wouldn’t enjoy on its own.
Now comes the magical transformation—add 4 ounces of lemon-flavored soda to the wine and ice. The gentle fizz of the soda lightens the wine and adds a rejuvenating citrus note that makes this drink so perfect for hot weather.
Give everything a gentle stir—no need to be vigorous here, just enough to combine the ingredients without losing too much carbonation. Finish with a slice of lemon or orange as garnish, which isn’t just decorative but adds a whisper of fresh citrus aroma with each sip.
For those who regularly enjoy wine-based drinks, investing in a premium wine cooler refrigerator can help maintain optimal temperature for your favorite bottles year-round.
The contrast of the deep red wine against the bright citrus slice makes for a drink that looks as good as it tastes. Who knew something requiring so little effort could bring such immense pleasure?
Substitutions and Variations
While the classic recipe calls for lemon soda, you’ll find that Tinto de Verano welcomes creative adaptations that can match your personal taste or whatever you happen to have in your refrigerator.
Try using orange soda for a sweeter twist, or ginger ale for a subtle spicy note.
Not a fan of sweetness? Mix your wine with seltzer water and a squeeze of fresh lemon instead.
I personally love adding fresh fruit—muddled berries or peach slices can transform this drink entirely.
For a more robust version, a splash of vermouth works wonders.
Can you imagine a more versatile summer drink?
What to Serve with Refreshing Spanish Tinto de Verano
What could possibly complement the fruity, invigorating notes of a perfectly mixed Tinto de Verano? I’m convinced that Spanish tapas are the ideal companions.
Think jamón serrano, manchego cheese, or crispy patatas bravas with their spicy kick.
For heartier pairings, I suggest grilled seafood—gambas al ajillo or a simple paella work beautifully. The drink’s revitalizing quality cuts through rich flavors perfectly.
Vegetarian? Try pan con tomate or a cool gazpacho alongside. The acidity in both balances wonderfully with the wine.
Final Thoughts
As I’ve shared this classic Spanish refreshment with you, I’m reminded of how the simplest combinations often create the most memorable experiences.
Tinto de Verano, with its perfect balance of wine and fizzy citrus, captures the essence of Mediterranean summers in every sip.
What I love most about this drink is its versatility.
Don’t have Fanta Limón? Sprite works beautifully. Prefer it less sweet? Adjust your wine-to-soda ratio. It’s impossible to go wrong.
