Drinks in Spain

 While visiting with Seth and Ali last weekend in Barcelona, I thought about what drinks they had to try while in Spain. That got me thinking that it'd be a neat thing to write about.

First things first though, everyone back home has been saying things like "Enjoy some Sangria for me!" or "Toast with some Sangria". Just to let everyone know, that although for some reason Spain is known for its Sangria, it is not popular here at all. While talking with one of my dad's friends who's lived here for 8 years she said:

"Sangria!? Oh wow, I've lived here for 8 years and I've never ever had Sangria. Only the tourists drink it because they come to Spain like "Oh I'm in Spain, I need Sangria!" I don't even know if most places even have it on the drink menu. If you were at a tourist restaurant for sure they would have it, and they'd make a big deal about offering it too."

I though that was so funny when she said that, till I though and realized that none of the people I've met while out have ever asked for Sangria. Its either beer, wine, or something like Rum & Coke or Gin & Tonic. The only time I had Sangria (which was on Friday actually) was at a dinner at their Aunt's house and it was home made. It was absolutely delicious.

Here are 3 drinks that are popular during the Summer in Spain

1. Tinto de Verano (Summer Wine)
This beverage is the local's alternative to Sangria, and is equally delicious. It is red wine (or if you're out, the house wine) with lemon. If you are at a bar/restaurant and ask for a tinto, the will give you a glass of the house wine. If you ask for a tinto de verano they will give you the same glass of house red wine, but add in lemon flavored Casera, which is a lemon soda drink found in Spain.

In Barcelona last weekend, we were at a tourist tapas bar, Tapa Tapa (you could tell as Sangria was on the Menu). I asked for a "tinto de verano" and the watier said "you mean Sangria?" I replied, "no, tinto de verano". He looked puzzled for a bit, then when through a whole bunch of clicking on his electronic order machine  before continuing. I love how he thought I ordered the wrong thing. Too bad I've been living like a local for the past 3 weeks guy. Haha. He also seemed a bit put off when I ordered our Tapas in Spanish. Silly.

C

2. Clara
For those who prefer Beer to Wine on a warm summer day, you would enjoy this lighter, more refreshing alternative.

A "Clara" is a mix of Beer and Casera, but you can choose if you just want the fizz, or if you want the lemon flavor. It goes down much cooler and smoother than beer, and has a clear aftertaste rather than the residual taste of most beers. I enjoy this the most as it satisfies your thirst for a glass of water, while giving you the enjoyment of a nice beverage.

3. Mojito
This third beverage is something I've seen advertised for many what would be "happy hour specials" as well as "copas" (late night drinks after dinner). But more frequently, I have seen people making them at home for themselves and for guests while entertaining.

The non-alcoholic version of the Mojito is common amongst kids (while in the US its more of a virgin strawberry daiquiri or pina colada, while on vacation)

I've had a home-made one while at the aunt's house, but have yet to order one while out. Since we don't have Caseara in the states, I've been trying that out instead.


As far as Beer goes, I haven't had any special "Spanish Beer". The men tend to drink Estrella Damm, Heineken, San Miguel, and Cruzcampo (Sponsor of the Spanish World Cup Team), none of which are anything to write home about. They're comparative to our Bud Light, Miller, and Coors brands. I haven't found anything too distinct about them.

If I find any new things to add, I'll let you know. Until then, what's your favorite summer drink?

~Jenna