Tinto de verano, meaning “summer red wine,” is one of Spain’s best-kept secrets—and perhaps the easiest summer cocktail you’ll ever make. While sangria has earned global fame, locals across Spain know that tinto de verano is the real star when the temperature rises. Simpler, quicker, and just as refreshing, it’s the go-to drink for long afternoons at the beach, lazy evenings on the terrace, and spontaneous picnics under the sun.

This drink’s genius lies in its simplicity. Made with just red wine and a fizzy mixer—typically lemon soda or soda water—it delivers instant refreshment with minimal effort. But just because it’s simple doesn’t mean it should be dull or poorly made. A well-made tinto de verano is unmatched when it comes to cooling down from Spain’s scorching summer heat.

There’s a reason why this drink continues to dominate Spanish summers. As I always say, “a properly made tinto de verano has no equal when it comes to cooling our bodies under the sweltering summer sun.”

Let’s explore how to perfect this iconic drink, starting with its roots.

Traditional Ingredients for Authentic Flavor

To make an authentic tinto de verano, you don’t need anything fancy—just good balance and quality base ingredients. Here’s what you need:

Basic Ingredients:

• Red Wine: Traditionally, a young Spanish red like Tempranillo or Garnacha. Fruity, medium-bodied, and not too oaky.
• Sparkling Mixer: Usually lemon soda like La Casera or Sprite. Alternatively, club soda or tonic water can be used.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Fresh citrus slices (lemon or orange)
• Ice cubes (lots of them!)
• Splash of vermouth or bitters (for complexity)
• Sugar (if using soda water instead of sweet soda)

Ratio tip:
The classic ratio is 1:1, but you can tweak this depending on how strong or sweet you want it. Some prefer 2 parts soda to 1 part wine for a lighter drink, while others go the opposite for more punch.

Whatever you do, avoid using expensive wine. This is a casual drink meant to be sipped in the heat, not savored in a wine glass. Think of it as Spain’s version of a wine cooler—light, crisp, and endlessly drinkable.

Creative Variations: Lemon, Orange, and Vegan Options

While the traditional version is timeless, there’s no harm in experimenting. Here are a few variations to keep things fresh:

1. Citrus Kick:
Add both lemon and orange slices. A splash of fresh juice intensifies the fruitiness.

2. Sparkling Water Version:
For a dryer, less sweet version, swap lemon soda for club soda. Add a spoonful of sugar or agave if needed.

3. Ginger Twist:
Use ginger ale or ginger beer instead of lemon soda for a spicy, aromatic take.

4. Vegan-Friendly Wine:
Most wine is naturally vegan, but double-check for added agents. Pair with vegan lemon soda like Sanpellegrino Limonata.

5. Vermouth Blend:
Add a small splash of Spanish vermouth for a more grown-up, bitter edge.

In my experience, generations used to make this drink often, customizing it based on what was in the fridge. That’s part of the magic—it’s adaptable and incredibly forgiving.

Common Mistakes When Making Tinto de Verano

Even with a recipe this simple, there are pitfalls to avoid:

• Using expensive wine: Save your Rioja Gran Reserva for another day.
• Serving it warm: Always chill your ingredients and serve with ice.
• Overpowering the wine: A 3:1 ratio of soda to wine turns it into soda with color.
• Skipping fresh citrus: Even one lemon slice makes a huge difference.
• Bottled tinto de verano: Convenient, yes. Flavorful? Not so much.

Remember, this drink became popular because it was homemade and customizable, not pre-packaged.

Tinto de Verano vs Sangria: Key Differences Explained

Many non-Spaniards confuse tinto de verano with sangria. While both are wine-based summer drinks, they are worlds apart in preparation and intent.

Feature	Tinto de Verano	Sangria
Ingredients	Wine + soda	Wine + fruits + liquor + juice
Time to prepare	2 minutes	Several hours (needs to marinate)
Sweetness	Light and refreshing	Rich and fruity
Complexity	Simple	Complex
Popularity in Spain	Locally preferred	More tourist-oriented

As someone who’s lived through the ’60s rise of tinto de verano, I can confirm: sangria is for tourists—tinto de verano is for the people.

Serving Tips to Impress Like a True Spaniard

If you want to go full Spanish, serve your tinto de verano with:

• Tapas: Think olives, jamón, tortilla, and almonds.
• Wide glasses or short tumblers, not wine glasses.
• Outdoor setting: Balcony, terrace, or picnic preferred.
• A nonchalant attitude: It’s a drink for relaxing, not overthinking.

My tip? Always overfill with ice and add a citrus wheel. Presentation matters, even with casual drinks.

Related Spanish Drink Recipes to Try Next

Want more Spanish-inspired refreshments? Try these:

• Clara: Beer mixed with lemon soda—a cousin to tinto de verano.
• Agua de Valencia: A mix of cava, orange juice, vodka, and gin.
• Rebujito: Fino sherry and lemon soda, typical in southern Spain.
• Sangria Blanca: A white wine twist on the traditional sangria.
• Calimocho: Red wine and cola—popular among Spanish youth.

Each has its time and place, but tinto de verano is forever.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Tinto de Verano

Q: Can I use any red wine for Tinto de Verano? A: While any red wine can be used, it is recommended to choose a young and fruity wine for the best flavor.

Q: Is Tinto de Verano similar to Sangria? A: Both are Spanish wine-based drinks, but Tinto de Verano is simpler and quicker to prepare, typically involving only wine and lemon soda.

Q: Can Tinto de Verano be made in advance? A: It is best enjoyed fresh to maintain its carbonation and refreshing quality. You can prepare the wine and soda mix and add ice and garnishes before serving.

Final Thoughts: Rediscover the Classic & Share Your Experience

Tinto de verano is more than just a drink—it’s a cultural symbol of summer, nostalgia, and simplicity. Whether you first tried it on a Spanish holiday or grew up mixing it in your kitchen, this easy recipe deserves a place in your seasonal rotation.

In an age of bottled shortcuts and overcomplicated cocktails, bringing back the homemade tinto de verano is an act of delicious rebellion.

Now it’s your turn.
Tried this recipe? Got your variation? Comment below or subscribe to our newsletter for more Spanish summer favorites.