Traditional recipe for Tinto de Verano

Tinto de Verano, translated as “red wine of summer,” is a refreshing and popular Spanish beverage that is perfect for hot summer days. It is often considered the sister drink of Sangria but has a simpler and lighter taste. This delightful and easy-to-make drink has been enjoyed by Spaniards for decades, and now you can recreate the taste of this classic beverage in the comfort of your own home.

The key to making a perfect Tinto de Verano is using quality ingredients. Start by selecting a good quality Spanish red wine that is not too heavy or overpowering. A young red wine, such as Tempranillo or Rioja, works best for this recipe. This type of wine pairs perfectly with the other ingredients and brings out the fruity flavors of the drink.

To make Tinto de Verano, you will need the following ingredients:

– 1 bottle of Spanish red wine
– 1 lemon
– 1 orange
– 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional)
– Soda water or lemon-lime soda (to taste)
– Ice cubes

Begin by slicing the lemon and orange into thin rounds. Squeeze some juice from the lemon and set it aside. In a pitcher, combine the sliced lemon and orange rounds, sugar (if desired), and the juice of half of the lemon. Gently muddle the fruit slices to release their flavors and create a slightly sweet base for the drink.

Next, pour the entire bottle of red wine into the pitcher, straining it through a sieve to remove any sediment. Stir the mixture gently to combine the flavors. Remember, Tinto de Verano is meant to be light and refreshing, so you can adjust the sweetness and amount of soda water or lemon-lime soda to your preference. Some people prefer a slightly sweeter version, while others enjoy a more tart and citrusy taste.

Now it’s time to add the carbonation. Slowly pour the soda water or lemon-lime soda into the pitcher, stirring gently as you go. Start with a small amount and taste as you add more, until you reach your desired level of carbonation. Keep in mind that too much soda can overpower the wine, so don’t overdo it.

Finally, add a generous amount of ice cubes to the pitcher to keep the drink cool. Stir gently once more to incorporate the ice. If you prefer to serve individual glasses, you can portion out the drink into tall glasses filled with ice.

Traditionally, Tinto de Verano is garnished with a slice of lemon or orange. You can also add a sprig of mint or a few berries for an extra pop of color and flavor. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tinto de Verano is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed on various occasions. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue, lounging by the pool, or simply looking to cool off, this traditional Spanish recipe is sure to be a hit.

So, the next time you crave a refreshing and easy-to-make beverage, try making Tinto de Verano at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can transport yourself to the sun-soaked streets of Spain and savor the taste of a classic summer drink. ¡Salud!