Sangria is an iconic Spanish drink loved around the world. There are heaps of versions, but the classic recipe is made with red wine, brandy or vermouth, sliced apples and oranges, and sparkling soda. A crowd-pleasing pitcher of sangria is the perfect drink to share with friends over tapas.

While many tourists associate Spain with Sangria, locals often prefer Tinto de Verano (red wine mixed with lemon soda) for a refreshing, everyday drink. However, the most widely consumed alcoholic beverage in Spain is actually Beer (Cerveza), typically ordered as a caña (a small glass to keep it cold). Spain is also famous for its diverse regional specialties: Sidra (natural cider) is the pride of Asturias and the Basque Country, poured from a height to aerate it, while Sherry (Vino de Jerez) is synonymous with Andalusia. In 2026, Gin and Tonic remains an incredibly popular "cocktail of choice" in Spanish bars, often served in large "balloon" glasses with elaborate garnishes like juniper berries and citrus peels. For a traditional celebratory drink, Cava, Spain’s high-quality sparkling wine from Catalonia, is the standard.