Tinto de Verano

Tinto de Verano

Tinto de verano is Spain's true summer drink -- the unpretentious, everyday refreshment that Spaniards actually reach for when the temperature climbs, in stark contrast to the tourist-targeted sangria. This brilliantly simple concoction mixes equal parts of inexpensive red wine with lemon-flavored soda (La Casera being the classic choice) or plain sparkling lemonade, served over plenty of ice. The result is a light, fizzy, and refreshing drink that costs next to nothing, requires zero preparation, and is available at every bar, beach chiringuito, and corner shop in Spain. It is the democratic king of Spanish summer drinks -- uncomplicated, universally loved, and utterly unpretentious.