Skip Sangria, Tinto De Verano Is The Real Spanish Taste of Summer

Tinto de Verano, literally "red wine of summer," is a beloved and refreshingly simple wine-based cocktail from Spain. It's often considered the everyday, less-fuss alternative to Sangria, especially popular among locals. Its invention is attributed to the early 20th century at Venta de Vargas in Córdoba, Andalusia, where it was initially called "un Vargas" and combined red wine with a local sweet soda. It's a quintessential warm-weather drink, designed for easy sipping. 

Tinto de Verano Ingredients

• 4 oz Red Wine
• 4 oz Lemon-Flavored Soda 
• Ice cubes
• Lemon or Orange Slice (garnish)

How to Make Tinto de Verano

1. Fill a highball or wine glass generously with ice cubes.
2. Pour wine over ice and top with soda.
3. Gently stir to combine.
4. Garnish with a fresh slice of lemon or orange.

For the most authentic Tinto de Verano, use an inexpensive Spanish red wine; the drink is designed to be a refreshing way to enjoy simple wine. The traditional Spanish "gaseosa" is less sweet than many international lemon-lime sodas, so if using the latter, you might adjust ratios or add a splash of soda water to temper the sweetness. Avoid over-stirring to maintain carbonation.

Tinto de Verano Riff

Some variations include adding a splash of sweet vermouth (vermut rojo) for added depth and complexity. Others might use orange soda (Fanta Naranja) instead of lemon. While the classic is a simple two-ingredient mix (plus ice and garnish), the key is to keep it light and refreshing. Unlike Sangria, it typically doesn't include chopped fruit mixed in or additional spirits.