Nothing captures the feeling of a warm summer afternoon quite like a chilled glass of Tinto de Verano. This classic Spanish drink is light, fruity, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make with only a few ingredients. Unlike heavier cocktails, Tinto de Verano offers a balanced combination of red wine and sparkling lemon soda, creating a beverage that’s perfect for barbecues, beach parties, family gatherings, or simply relaxing on the patio.

Although many people outside Spain confuse Tinto de Verano with Sangria, locals know they’re quite different. Sangria requires multiple fruits, spirits, and time to infuse, while Tinto de Verano is wonderfully simple. Its name literally translates to “Red Wine of Summer,” and it has been enjoyed throughout Spain for generations because of its refreshing taste and effortless preparation.

Whether you’re planning a summer picnic, hosting friends, or simply looking for an easy wine cocktail, this authentic Tinto de Verano recipe delivers delicious results every single time.

What Is Tinto de Verano?

Tinto de Verano is one of Spain’s most popular summertime beverages. It combines:

• Red wine
• Lemon soda (or sparkling lemonade)
• Ice
• Fresh citrus garnish

The drink originated in southern Spain during the 1920s and quickly became a favorite because it was lighter than drinking straight wine during hot weather.

Today, almost every Spanish café, beach bar, and restaurant serves Tinto de Verano throughout the warmer months.

Why You’ll Love This Tinto de Verano Recipe

There are plenty of reasons this drink has remained popular for decades.

• Ready in only 5 minutes
• Requires just a handful of ingredients
• Perfect for beginners
• Light and refreshing
• Less sweet than Sangria
• Easily customizable
• Great for parties
• Budget-friendly
• Perfect for hot summer days

Ingredients

You’ll only need a few simple ingredients.

1. Red Wine

Choose a young, fruity Spanish red wine such as:

• Tempranillo
• Garnacha
• Rioja Joven
• Monastrell

Avoid expensive aged wines since the soda softens the flavour.

2. Lemon Soda

Traditional Spanish recipes often use:

• La Casera
• Sprite
• 7UP
• Sparkling lemonade
• Lemon sparkling water

3. Ice Cubes

Lots of ice keeps the drink extra refreshing.

4. Orange Slice

Fresh orange adds aroma and a beautiful presentation.

5. Lemon Slice

Adds brightness and extra citrus flavor.

Equipment Needed

• Large wine glass
• Cocktail spoon
• Measuring cup
• Ice scoop
• Citrus knife

Authentic Tinto de Verano Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup red wine
• 1 cup lemon soda
• Ice cubes
• 1 orange slice
• 1 lemon slice

Instructions

Step 1

Fill a large wine glass halfway with ice cubes.

Step 2

Pour one cup of chilled red wine into the glass.

Step 3

Add one cup of chilled lemon soda.

Step 4

Stir gently to combine.

Step 5

Garnish with fresh orange and lemon slices.

Step 6

Serve immediately while cold.

Best Wine for Tinto de Verano

The best wines are young, fruity, and affordable.

Excellent choices include:

• Tempranillo
• Garnacha
• Rioja Joven
• Merlot
• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Shiraz

Avoid:

• Oak-aged wines
• Expensive reserve wines
• Sweet dessert wines

Best Lemon Soda Options

Traditional Spanish versions use lemon-flavored sparkling soda.

Popular alternatives include:

• Sprite
• 7UP
• Sparkling lemonade
• Club soda with fresh lemon juice
• Lemon-flavored sparkling mineral water

Expert Tips for the Perfect Drink

Chill Everything First

Cold ingredients create a smoother, more refreshing drink.

Don’t Overmix

Gentle stirring preserves carbonation.

Use Plenty of Ice

More ice keeps the drink cold without quickly watering it down.

Choose Fresh Citrus

Fresh fruit dramatically improves both flavour and appearance.

Drink Immediately

Tinto de Verano tastes best while the bubbles are fresh.

Delicious Variations

Sparkling Tinto de Verano

Replace lemon soda with sparkling mineral water for a lighter version.

Orange Tinto de Verano

Use orange soda instead of lemon soda for a sweeter citrus flavour.

Berry Version

Add fresh:

• Strawberries
• Raspberries
• Blackberries

Mint Version

Fresh mint leaves provide a cooling finish.

Low-Sugar Version

Mix red wine with sparkling water and freshly squeezed lemon juice.

What to Serve with Tinto de Verano

This refreshing drink pairs beautifully with Spanish-inspired dishes.

Great options include:

• Grilled shrimp
• Tapas
• Olives
• Manchego cheese
• Spanish tortilla
• Paella
• Grilled chicken
• Bruschetta
• Fresh salads
• Seafood skewers

Storage Tips

Since carbonation disappears quickly, Tinto de Verano should be made fresh.

If necessary:

• Chill ingredients separately.
• Mix only before serving.
• Do not freeze.
• Consume within 30 minutes for the best taste.

Nutrition Information

Approximate values per serving:

• Calories: 140
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Sugar: 8g
• Fat: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Alcohol: Varies depending on wine

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many first-time makers accidentally ruin this simple drink.

Avoid these mistakes:

• Using warm wine
• Adding flat soda
• Over-stirring
• Using expensive wine
• Skipping ice
• Adding too much fruit
• Preparing hours in advance

Why This Recipe Works

This authentic recipe balances the bold flavour of red wine with the bright citrus notes of sparkling lemonade. The result is a crisp, bubbly, easy-drinking beverage that’s ideal for warm weather and casual entertaining. Unlike complicated cocktails, Tinto de Verano requires minimal effort while delivering maximum refreshment. It’s no surprise this drink has become a staple across Spain and is now loved by wine enthusiasts around the world.

Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, planning a backyard barbecue, or simply looking for a quick and refreshing drink, this Tinto de Verano recipe is guaranteed to impress. With fresh ingredients, plenty of ice, and a splash of sparkling citrus, you’ll enjoy an authentic taste of Spain in every sip.