# Tinto de Verano Offers Spanish Alternative to Sangria
Sangria dominates summer cocktail menus across America, yet Spanish locals reach for something simpler and more refreshing. Tinto de verano, a two-ingredient drink combining red wine and lemon-lime soda, represents the authentic taste of Spanish summers rather than the fruit-heavy punch tourists expect.
The drink's simplicity is its strength. A glass of affordable red wine mixed with Sprite or Fanta Lemon creates a light, effervescent beverage that refreshes without overwhelming the palate. Spanish bars serve it over ice in tall glasses, often with a lemon slice and a splash of brandy for depth. The ratio typically favors the soda, making it lower in alcohol content than traditional sangria.
This cocktail reflects Spanish drinking culture more accurately than the tourist-focused sangria served at resorts. Locals in Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville order tinto de verano by default during warm months. It costs pennies to make at home or in a bar, using basic ingredients found in any grocery store. No elaborate fruit preparation or overnight steeping required.
The rise of tinto de verano in American consciousness signals a broader shift toward authentic regional drinks over Americanized versions. Food writers and bartenders increasingly champion genuine Spanish beverages, moving beyond the heavily doctored sangrias that bear little resemblance to what Spaniards actually drink.
Making tinto de verano at home takes seconds. Pour a glass of dry red wine, top with lemon-lime soda, add ice, and garnish with fresh lemon. The drink pairs effortlessly with tapas, paella, or light summer meals. Wine quality matters less than with straight red wine, making it economical for casual entertaining.
This summer, swap the sangria pitcher for a bottle