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Last week we talked about typical Spanish gastronomy, focusing on the main and most famous foods. However, this week we want to freshen up a bit more and, for that, we bring you the typical Spanish drinks!… Read on and find out what Spanish people drink and from which community each drink is famous, if they contain alcohol or not and some more curiosities… Let’s start!
Gazpacho
Gazpacho is a cold soup originating from southern Spain, specifically Andalusia. Perfect for hot summer days, this refreshing treat is made with ripe tomatoes, cucumber, bell bell pepper, onion, garlic, olive oil, vinegar and bread. Everything is blended to a smooth texture and served chilled.
Although its recipe may vary according to the region and personal preferences, gazpacho always stands out for its fresh taste and its ability to revitalize. Ideal as a starter or as a drink, this dish is a classic in Spanish cuisine.
Horchata
There is a legend that tells that, in the time of King Jaume I, a villager brought some horchata to the court. When the king asked about the drink, the villager replied: és llet de xufa (it is tiger nut milk), to which the king replied: açò no és llet, és or, xata (this is not milk, it is gold, girl).
Horchata is, therefore, a drink extracted from the tiger nut and originates from the Valencian Community, specifically from the town of Alboraya. It does not contain alcohol, is consumed by children and adults alike and is a fantastic way to cool off in summer.
However, it is not a drink that is widely consumed in Spain. If you visit the Valencian Community, you can have an horchata in any café. But outside this community, having an horchata is a bit more complicated. If you want to have a good horchata in the heart of the Spanish capital, you can visit Cántaro Blanco, Horchatería Alboraya or el Kiosko de Horchata de Miguel y José.
Wine
Wine is an emblematic alcoholic beverage of Spain, although its enjoyment extends throughout the world. Made from the fermentation of grapes, its elaboration varies according to the region, resulting in a great diversity of flavors and aromas. In Spain, regions such as La Rioja, Ribera del Duero and Jerez are especially famous for their red, white and sherry wines.
Whether enjoyed on its own or accompanied by a good meal, wine is an essential part of Spanish culture and tradition, ideal for any social or gastronomic occasion.
Cider
Cider is a typical drink from the north of Spain, specifically from the Asturian region. In Asturias, there is a tradition of pouring cider. This consists of pouring the cider into the glass from a considered height, not simply for folklore, but for gastronomic reasons. When the cider hits the walls of the glass, its aroma and properties are awakened.
To make this drink, different varieties of apples are selected, which give it its characteristic flavour. They are then mashed to obtain an apple must.
Traditional cider has a very low alcohol content, between 5 and 6 degrees. If you want to try it in the heart of the Spanish capital, we recommend you visit Casa de Asturias or El Escarpín.
Sangria
It is believed that Spanish and Portuguese peasants created sangria more than 200 years ago. They prepared this drink with the ingredients they had at hand: wine and local fruits.
Over the years, the recipe for this drink has evolved to become one of the most internationally recognised typical Spanish drinks, if not the most… Without a doubt, sangria is a must on any sunny day at the beach, and a great way to beat the heat.
Make the most of the summer and try all the typical Spanish drinks! We are sure that, as with the food, you will love them all.