🇪🇸 Spain · Drinks
Tinto de Verano (Summer Red Wine)
By eatmundo · July 7, 2026
Tinto de Verano is Spain's quintessential summer drink, a simpler and often preferred alternative to Sangría for locals. It's a deliciously refreshing mix of red wine and lemon-lime soda (or 'gaseosa'), served over plenty of ice with a slice of lemon. Perfect for cooling down on a warm day!
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Start by filling a large glass, ideally a highball or a large wine glass (about 300-400ml capacity), generously with ice cubes. The more ice you use, the colder and more refreshing your Tinto de Verano will be.
- 2
Pour 150ml of your chosen dry, young red wine over the ice. A fruity, light-bodied Spanish red like a young Tempranillo or a Garnacha works beautifully and is traditionally preferred.
- 3
Carefully top the wine with 150ml of lemon-lime soda. In Spain, a lightly sweetened sparkling water known as 'gaseosa' is often used, but Sprite or 7Up are excellent substitutes.
- 4
Gently stir the mixture with a long spoon to combine the wine and soda evenly. Avoid over-stirring, as you want to preserve the carbonation of the soda.
- 5
Garnish your Tinto de Verano with a fresh lemon slice. For an extra aromatic touch, you could also add a slice of orange or a sprig of mint, though this is less traditional.
- 6
Serve immediately and savor this simple yet profoundly refreshing Spanish summer drink. It's meant to be enjoyed chilled and quickly!
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best type of red wine for Tinto de Verano?+
A young, fruity, and dry red wine like a Rioja Crianza or a simple Tempranillo is ideal. Avoid heavy, oak-aged wines, as their complex flavors can be lost or clash with the soda.
What's the difference between Tinto de Verano and Sangría?+
Tinto de Verano is much simpler, typically just red wine and lemon-lime soda. Sangría is more elaborate, often including chopped fruits, a splash of brandy or liqueur, and other fruit juices, requiring more prep time.
Can I use diet soda for Tinto de Verano?+
Yes, you can absolutely use a diet lemon-lime soda or diet gaseosa to reduce the sugar content without significantly compromising the refreshing flavor profile of the drink.
How do I make a pitcher of Tinto de Verano for a group?+
Simply scale the ingredients proportionally. For a 1-liter pitcher, use 500ml red wine and 500ml soda. Add plenty of ice and lemon slices directly to the pitcher or to individual glasses when serving.
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