While wine is one of the quintessential attractions of Spanish culture, there is a host of other popular drinks typical of the country.
* Beer (Spaniards enjoy beer and, while there are local beers, they usually prefer imported beers). Beer is, without a doubt, the most popular drink to have alongside tapas (Spanish snacks). Unlike other European countries like Germany, beer is served ice-cold in Spain. At bars and restaurants, locals typically order a caña, a not particularly large glass of draft beer, while una jarra (literally a jar) is the common equivalent of a pint. Those who prefer bottled beer will normally ask for a quinto or a mediana, which are respectively small and medium-sized bottles. Also popular is clara, which is beer mixed with lemonade or soda water.
* Coffee (Spaniards are coffee lovers, especially in the morning). Spaniards are quite avid coffee drinkers, enjoying its natural properties and making it an inevitable part of socialising. Coffee – whether a café solo (a small cup of strong espresso), a café americano (a larger, less strong black coffee), a café con leche (coffee made with milk and no water), a cortado (an espresso with a small amount of milk) or a cappuccino –after lunch fuels conversations on whatever is of interest in Spanish society. Some, though, like their coffee along with a shot of alcohol or mixed with a fine liquor – this is commonly known as a carajillo.
* Liquor (sloe liquor, called pacharán in Spanish, and herbal liquor are the most common amongst the locals). Liquors are typically consumed after lunch, alongside the coffee. With their high alcohol content, moderate consumption is advisable for all who dislike headaches the next morning.
* Juice (fruit juice, especially orange juice). Spain is famous for its fruit production and particularly its oranges, so freshly squeezed orange juice is available at most coffee shops and restaurants.
* Horchata (this is a tiger nut drink, tiger nuts being typical of Spain). The stereotypical non-alcoholic Spanish drink, horchata has a milky appearance and tastes like a sweet, nutty milkshake. It is particularly popular in summer because it is served very cold, making it highly refreshing, and can often be bought at ice-cream parlours.
* Sangría (a very typical drink consisting of wine, fruit, and sugar). Sangrías are a typical drink often enjoyed with lunch. The pleasant flavour and added fruit may be misleading, so it’s easy to forget that it contains alcohol. Therefore, do remember to enjoy its blend of flavours but don’t drink too much all at once!
* Tinto de verano (a summer red wine that is mixed with soda water). Tintos de verano are typically drunk with tapas (Spanish snacks). While they can serve as an excellent alternative for those who are not that fond of beer, in the summer months they can also be enjoyed in place of sangrías for a more refreshing effect.