National Dish Spain: Tinto de Verano (Recipe)
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Cool, sparkling and effortlessly refreshing, Tinto de Verano is Spain’s answer to a long, sun-baked afternoon. This easy summer drink blends crisp red wine with fizzy lemon soda over plenty of ice, delivering all the holiday spirit of sangria with a fraction of the fuss. Whether you are firing up the barbecue or simply unwinding on the terrace, this is the kind of glass that practically pours itself.
About Tinto de Verano
Tinto de Verano — literally “red wine of summer” — is a beloved Spanish refresher built on red wine and a bubbly lemon soda. It is the perfect choice for hot days when you fancy something light and lively rather than heavy. Found in bars and homes across Spain, it is often served as a more laid-back alternative to sangria, with no chopping or long soaking required. Its simple, speedy preparation makes it ideal for spontaneous gatherings and relaxed grill parties alike.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 1/2 bottle red wine (dry or off-dry)
- 200 ml lemon soda
- Ice cubes
- A slice of lemon
- A dash of Angostura bitters (optional)
Shopping for the ingredients
For this recipe you will want a good-quality red wine that is either dry or off-dry. When shopping, look for a lemon soda without artificial sweeteners so the natural flavour of the drink shines through. The remaining ingredients, such as ice cubes and lemons, are available in almost any supermarket. If you like, you can also pick up some Angostura bitters from a well-stocked off-licence or order it online.
Preparing the dish
Before you start mixing, make sure the red wine is well chilled, as this has a real impact on both the flavour and the refreshing quality of the drink. Wash the lemon thoroughly and cut a slice to use as a garnish. Have the ice cubes ready to go too, so the drink can be served the moment it is made. You can also set out the Angostura bitters in advance if you plan to use it.
Step-by-step instructions
- Fill a large wine glass or jug with ice cubes.
- Pour the well-chilled red wine over the ice.
- Add the lemon soda and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish the drink with a slice of lemon.
- Optional: add a dash of Angostura bitters for an extra layer of flavour.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Tinto de Verano is naturally gluten-free and lactose-free, as the main ingredients — red wine and lemon soda — contain neither gluten nor lactose. Just take care that the lemon soda you choose does not include any hidden gluten-containing ingredients. Reading the ingredient list on the bottle carefully is the surest way to be confident your drink suits everyone at the table.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For vegans, it is worth checking that the red wine has been fined without animal-derived agents such as gelatine or egg white. Plenty of wines are made vegan-friendly and labelled accordingly, so they are easy to spot. The other ingredients — lemon soda and ice cubes — are generally vegan, but a quick glance at the label never hurts. That way you can be sure of enjoying a completely vegan drink.
More tips and tricks
To give your Tinto de Verano a special touch, add fruit such as slices of orange or lime. These not only bring extra depth of flavour but also look wonderfully decorative in the glass. Another handy trick is to swap the ice cubes for frozen grapes: they stay cold for longer and keep the drink from becoming watered down as they melt.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
This recipe lends itself beautifully to individual taste preferences. If you like things sweeter, use a touch of sugar or a slightly sweeter red wine. For a stronger citrus kick, simply add a little more lemon soda. You can even experiment with fresh herbs such as mint or basil to give the drink an added freshness and a more complex aroma — much like the bright notes you find across Spanish cuisine.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have any lemon soda to hand, you can use a mix of sparkling water and freshly squeezed lemon juice instead. This gives the drink a similar freshness with a slightly sharper, more grown-up edge. A lively white wine can also stand in for the red to create a “Blanco de Verano”. Feel free to experiment with different combinations until you land on your perfect blend — the same spirit of improvisation that turns simple Sardinas Asadas into a feast.
Drink pairing ideas
As an alternative or companion to Tinto de Verano, you could also offer a classic sangria, a rosé version of tinto de verano, or a wine spritzer. These drinks share the same refreshing character and pair wonderfully with summer get-togethers. A glass of Cava (Spanish sparkling wine) is another excellent choice and brings a festive mood to any gathering.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation plays a big part in serving Tinto de Verano. Use stylish glasses and add fresh, decorative fruit to make the drink more visually appealing. A garnish of mint leaves or a sugared rim are small details that can make a big impression. Serve the drink on a nicely laid table with matching nibbles such as tapas or fresh salads — bright plates like Espinacas con Garbanzos or Patatas Revolconas work a treat.
A bit of history
Tinto de Verano has its roots in Spain and is especially popular during the hot summer months. The drink most likely emerged as an affordable, fuss-free alternative to the ever-popular sangria. It quickly became a fixture in Spanish beach bars and restaurants. Defined by its simplicity and quick preparation, it has remained a firm favourite to this day.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Tinto de Verano
Tinto de Verano is a simple, refreshing drink that is perfect for hot summer days. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can conjure up a delicious cooler in a matter of minutes. This Spanish summer staple is a brilliant alternative to sangria and suits all sorts of occasions. Give it a go and toast the season with a glass of this wonderfully easy refresher.
