Welcome to Barcelona, a city bursting with cultural wonders and gastronomic delights. Amidst its vibrant streets and captivating architecture, one cannot overlook the diverse and enticing world of beverages. Join us as we embark on a journey to discover the typical and beloved drinks of Barcelona, offering a true taste of Catalan and Spanish traditions.
Sangria: Fruity and refreshing Spanish classic.
A quintessential Spanish drink, is a delightful concoction of red wine, fresh fruit, and a touch of sweetness. Served over ice, this refreshing beverage is perfect for sipping on warm Barcelona days. While Sangria can contain alcohol, non-alcoholic versions are also available. It is a popular drink among locals and tourists, often enjoyed in outdoor cafes and during festive occasions.
Cava: Bubbles of celebratory delight.
A sparkling wine hailing from Catalonia, holds a special place in the hearts of Barcelonans. Made using the traditional Champagne method, this effervescent delight is a celebratory drink of choice. With its crisp bubbles and exquisite taste, Cava is savored during special events and cherished as a symbol of Barcelona’s rich wine culture.
Orxata: Creamy and nutty Valencian treat.
A beloved non-alcoholic beverage in Barcelona, Orxata is a sweet and creamy elixir made from ground tiger nuts, water, and sugar. This traditional drink from Valencia has found a permanent place in Barcelona’s culinary landscape. Often enjoyed with a traditional pastry, Orxata offers a refreshing respite from the city’s warm climate and is a popular choice among both locals and visitors.
Clara: Crisp and invigorating beer cocktail.
The Clara is a classic beer cocktail that showcases the simplicity and elegance of Catalan drinking culture. Combining equal parts of beer (usually a light lager) and lemonade or soda, this invigorating drink is enjoyed all year round. Its light and crisp profile make it a perfect choice for those seeking a refreshing beverage to accompany a delicious tapas feast. The Clara is a popular choice among the citizens of Barcelona, especially during social gatherings and outdoor events.
Carajillo: A spirited coffee pick-me-up.
For those in need of a pick-me-up, the Carajillo is a delightful Spanish coffee cocktail that combines the rich flavors of espresso with a splash of brandy or rum. Sweetened with a touch of sugar and often sprinkled with cinnamon, this aromatic beverage is favored as an after-dinner treat or a midday indulgence. While not consumed as frequently as some other drinks on the list, the Carajillo holds a special place among those who appreciate the fusion of coffee and spirits.
Vermouth: Aromatic aperitif with a bitter-sweet twist.
Vermouth, an essential component of Catalan aperitif culture, is a fortified wine infused with a blend of herbs and spices. This aromatic and bittersweet drink is traditionally enjoyed before meals as a stimulating appetite opener. With its roots deeply embedded in Barcelona’s drinking traditions, Vermouth is a popular choice among locals who gather in vermuteries (vermouth bars) to enjoy a glass alongside some tasty tapas.
Jerez Cocktail: Tangy and effervescent Andalusian fusion.
The Jerez Cocktail, also known as Rebujito, is a refreshing blend of fino sherry and lemon-lime soda. While originating from Andalusia, this effervescent and tangy drink has found its way into the hearts of Barcelonans. It is particularly celebrated during the springtime Feria de Abril, where locals and visitors revel in its lively flavors. Although not as widely consumed as some other drinks, the Jerez Cocktail provides a delightful option for those looking to try something unique.
Orujo: Potent digestif with a grape-infused kick.
Orujo, a traditional Spanish spirit, is occasionally enjoyed in Barcelona as a digestif after a hearty meal. Produced by distilling grape skins, this potent and aromatic liquor carries a hint of the region’s winemaking heritage. While it may not be as commonly consumed as some other beverages on the list, Orujo holds a special place among those seeking a taste of traditional Catalan and Spanish liqueurs.
In my Opinion
Barcelona offers a diverse range of popular and iconic drinks that beautifully reflect the city’s drinking culture. From the fruity and refreshing Sangria to the celebratory Cava, and from the creamy delight of Orxata to the invigorating Clara, each beverage carries its own unique charm.
Among all the options that the city offers us, the gastronomic offer is the most extensive and therefore the drink that accompanies it as well, in any case, make sure you don’t drink alcohol in the street in an ostentatious way.
So, raise a glass and embark on a tantalizing journey through the captivating world of Barcelona’s beverages!