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Tinto de verano is the easiest red wine cocktail you’ll ever make, with just red wine, lemon soda, and ice. This classic Spanish summer drink is lighter than sangria, ready in 2 minutes, and basically impossible to mess up. It’s what you make when you want something refreshing on a hot afternoon without any actual effort.
about this tinto de verano recipe
If you’re familiar with sangria, think of Tinto de Verano as its simpler, more refreshing cousin. While sangria is packed with fruit and often enhanced with additional alcohol, this Spanish red wine cocktail relies on just two primary ingredients: red wine and lemon soda. The result is lighter, less sweet, and much faster to make.
Tinto de verano literally translates to “red wine of summer,” and one sip explains everything. It’s the kind of drink that tastes like a hot afternoon in Madrid. The classic Spanish recipe uses equal parts red wine and lemon soda over plenty of ice. I first had it at a tiny bar in Sevilla on a 100-degree August day, and it’s been my go-to summer red wine cocktail ever since.
In Spain, tinto de verano shows up everywhere – neighborhood bars, family gatherings, every restaurant patio. It’s approachable, refreshing, and requires zero special preparation, which is exactly why it works just as well at your backyard BBQ as it does in Madrid.
Traditional Spanish versions use fruity reds like Tempranillo, Garnacha, or Rioja (aka wines that are easy-drinking and not overly tannic). If you can’t find those, a red blend, Pinot Noir, or lighter Cabernet Sauvignon all work well. Skip anything heavy or expensive because this red wine cocktail is the rare case where a $10 bottle works better than your good wine. Save the expensive stuff for sipping.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just minutes with almost no prep work.
- A refreshing alternative when sangria feels too heavy.
- Made with only a handful of simple ingredients.
- Easy to customize with different garnishes and citrus flavors.
- Great for entertaining because it scales effortlessly for guests.
- Budget-friendly since it works beautifully with affordable wines.
- One of the easiest red wine cocktails to make at home.
- Perfect for hot summer days when you want something light and crisp.
ingredients
Red Wine. Use a fruity, medium-bodied red wine without heavy tannins. Tempranillo, Garnacha, and Rioja are the traditional Spanish picks. Affordable, easy-drinking, and widely available at any grocery store with a decent wine section. A red blend, Pinot Noir, or lighter Cabernet Sauvignon also work. Avoid anything bold, oaky, or expensive.
Lemon or Lime Soda. Traditional tinto de verano uses La Casera, a Spanish lemon soda that’s a little less sweet than American sodas. If you can find it (some specialty stores or international grocery aisles carry it), grab it. Otherwise, Sprite or 7Up are the most accessible substitutes and work perfectly as a mixer. Lime soda gives it a brighter citrus flavor if you want to switch things up.
Citrus Garnishes. A slice of lemon and an orange slice add a bright, colorful finishing touch on the rim.
this recipe’s must-haves
A highball glass or stemless wine goblet is the traditional way to serve tinto de verano. However, rocks glasses also work well if that’s what you have on hand. Both styles leave plenty of room for ice and garnishes while keeping the presentation casual.
Ice is equally important to the finished cocktail. Since the drink contains only a handful of ingredients, serving it ice cold is key to achieving its signature refreshing flavor.
A bar spoon is helpful for gently stirring the mixture without knocking all the bubbles out of the soda.
how to make This Tinto de Verano (step-by-step)
Fill
Fill a highball glass or stemless wine glass all the way to the top with ice. Don’t skimp on it because this red wine cocktail is meant to be ice cold, and a generous amount of ice keeps it that way without diluting too fast.
Pour
Pour the red wine over the ice, then top with the lemon soda. The classic ratio is equal parts (about 4 ounces of each) but you can adjust to taste.
Stir
Use a bar spoon to gently stir the mixture just enough to combine while preserving the soda’s carbonation.
Garnish & Serve
Add a slice of lemon or orange if desired and serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Choose a fruity, medium-bodied red wine with soft tannins for the most balanced flavor.
- A fruity red wine such as Tempranillo, Garnacha, or Rioja is traditionally used in Spain.
- Save your expensive bottles for sipping on their own. An affordable wine is ideal here.
- Traditional tinto de verano is made with La Casera, but Sprite and 7Up are excellent substitutes.
- The classic ratio is equal parts wine and soda, but you can adjust it to suit your palate.
- Fill the glass with ice before adding the liquid ingredients to keep everything colder longer.
- Stir gently with a bar spoon to maintain as much carbonation as possible.
- Serve in a highball glass, stemless wine goblet, or rocks glasses.
- Add lemons, a slice of lemon, or an orange slice right before serving for a simple garnish that looks impressive.
- Try lime soda if you want a brighter citrus flavor.
- For a pitcher version, mix the wine and citrus slices first and add the soda just before serving (otherwise it goes flat)
variations
Using lime soda instead of lemon soda creates a slightly brighter citrus profile with a little more tang. It’s a simple swap that can completely change the flavor of the drink.
For a sweeter and fruitier version, add a splash of fresh orange juice. Garnish with an orange slice for extra citrus aroma and color.
Fresh herbs like mint are an easy addition that gives the cocktail a cool, refreshing finish. Simply tuck a sprig into the glass before serving.
If you’re serving a crowd, make a pitcher version by scaling the wine and soda using the traditional equal parts ratio. Add citrus slices directly to the pitcher for extra flavor and visual appeal.
For something a bit closer to sangria, add a splash of brandy. The extra depth of flavor bridges the gap between these two classic Spanish drinks.
More Wine Cocktails: White Sangria I Classic Red Sangria I Pear Ginger White Sangria I Melon Sangria
faqs
What is the difference between tinto de verano and sangria?
The biggest difference between tinto de verano and sangria is complexity. Tinto de verano uses just two ingredients (red wine and lemon soda) and comes together in 2 minutes. Sangria typically includes fresh fruit, additional spirits like brandy or triple sec, and needs time to infuse for the best flavor. Tinto de verano is lighter, less sweet, and what Spaniards actually drink most often in summer.
What wine is best for tinto de verano?
Traditional Spanish wines like Tempranillo, Garnacha, and Rioja are the most common choices. A red blend, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, or any fruity, medium-bodied red wine will also work well.
Is tinto de verano sweet?
It has a light sweetness from the soda, but it’s generally less sweet than most sangrias. The balance of wine and citrus creates a refreshing flavor that isn’t overly sugary.
what does tinto de verano mean?
“Tinto de verano” translates literally to “red wine of summer” in Spanish. It’s been the casual summer drink of Spain for decades. You’ll find it served everywhere from beach bars to family dinners. The name perfectly captures what the drink is: red wine made for hot weather.
Can I make tinto de verano in a pitcher?
Yes, it’s perfect for crowds. Use equal parts wine and soda (a standard bottle of wine + 25 oz of soda serves about 6-8). Add citrus slices to the pitcher for visual appeal. The one trick: add the soda just before serving so it doesn’t go flat. Mix the wine and citrus first, keep it cold, and pour the soda in right before guests arrive.
Need more refreshing cocktails? Check out my booze page!
what to serve with This Tinto de Verano
This easy summer cocktail pairs perfectly with Veggie Guacamole and Chunky Salsa. The bright citrus flavor and refreshing bubbles balance rich dips beautifully while making a casual snack spread feel a little more special.
A tapas or charcuterie spread is another natural pairing. If you’re planning a Spanish-inspired gathering, check out Host a Tapas Party Part One and Host a Tapas Party Part Two for ideas on building a spread of cheeses, cured meats, olives, and small bites that complement the flavors of this Spanish red wine cocktail.
For a more substantial meal, serve tinto de verano alongside Grilled Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Tacos or Charred Cilantro Lime Corn Chicken Avocado Tacos. The citrus notes in the drink pair beautifully with grilled seafood and chicken.
This refreshing red wine spritzer is also right at home beside burgers, grilled vegetables, steaks, kebabs, and just about anything coming off the grill at a backyard gathering with guests.
How to Store
Don’t pre-mix: Tinto de verano is best made one glass at a time or in a pitcher right before serving. The carbonation in the soda fades within 30-60 minutes of mixing, so this isn’t a drink you can prep hours ahead.
Pitcher prep: If you’re entertaining, mix the wine with citrus slices in a pitcher and keep it cold. Add the soda right before serving (or let guests top off their own glasses) to keep things fizzy.
Leftover wine: If you have wine left over, store it in the fridge with a cork or wine stopper for 2-3 days. Open soda goes flat within 24-48 hours, so plan accordingly.
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more of our favorite Summer Sippers
If you love fruity summer cocktails, be sure to try this Peach Margarita. The sweet peach flavor makes it a refreshing choice for warm afternoons, patio happy hours, and backyard gatherings.
Looking for something citrus-forward? This Cantarito is bursting with bright citrus flavor, such as fresh lemon juice and plenty of refreshing bubbly soda water. It’s an easy-drinking cocktail that’s ideal for entertaining throughout the summer.
For a pitcher cocktail that’s perfect for sharing, make a batch of Limeade Margaritas. The tart lime flavor and simple preparation make them a go-to option for cookouts, parties, and sunny weekends.
Finally, if you make this Tinto de Verano recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star recipe rating on the recipe card and/or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment.
Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!
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Red wine cocktail
equipment
- Highball glass or stemless wine goblet
- Ice
ingredients
- ½ cup 4 oz red wine (Tempranillo, Garnacha, or Rioja recommended)
- ½ cup 4 oz lemon or lime soda (Sprite, 7Up, or La Casera)
- Lemon wheels for garnish (optional)
- Navel orange wheels for garnish (optional)
- Ice
instructions
- Fill a highball glass or stemless wine goblet with ice.
- Pour in the red wine, then the lemon soda. Give it a gentle stir to combine without losing the bubbles.
- Garnish with lemon or orange wheels if desired. Serve immediately.
video
notes
- Wine Choice: A fruity, medium-bodied Spanish red works best. Tempranillo, Garnacha, and approachable Rioja wines are ideal. Avoid anything overly tannic or heavy.
- Soda Choice: La Casera is the traditional Spanish lemon soda used throughout Spain. Sprite and 7Up are the most accessible substitutes.
- Ratio: The classic ratio is equal parts wine and soda. Adjust as desired for a stronger or lighter cocktail.
- Pitcher Version: Scale up the ingredients using the same 1:1 ratio and add citrus slices directly to the pitcher for serving a crowd.
- Serve Immediately: This cocktail is at its best when freshly mixed. The soda loses carbonation quickly once combined with the wine.
nutrition
about meghan
Meghan Yager is the recipe developer, food photographer, and creative force behind Cake ‘n Knife, where everyday moments are celebrated with bold, flavor-forward recipes. From cozy cocktails to bold appetizers and indulgent desserts, her approachable style brings people together around food worth sharing. Meghan’s work has been featured by Good Housekeeping, Oprah Daily, Today, Woman’s Day, and The Huffington Post. She lives in Denver, where she brings big flavor and a little sass to every bite.
