Orange Tinto de Verano

For all of you sangria lovers out there: Indulge in the captivating world of this Orange Tinto de Verano, the perfect choice for anyone seeking a lighter, effortless alternative to the sangria.

With its vibrant red hue, thirst-quenching qualities, and exquisite blend of fruity red wine and citrus, this Orange Tinto de Verano is a must-try drink for all your summer gatherings and poolside relaxation. This cocktail puts the elegance in simplicity and is truly the little black dress of summer cocktails.

I use Jarrito’s orange soda (not sponsored) with a light to medium-bodied red like Pinot Noir for this recipe. The medium-bodied nature of Pinot Noir allows the zest of the orange to shine without overwhelming the wine’s subtle red fruit flavors. The wine’s gentle acidity can enhance the refreshing qualities of the Tinto de Verano, while its smooth tannins provide a pleasing textural element.

What is a Tinto de Verano? 

Known as the “red wine of summer” in Spanish, the tinto de verano is highly popular and refreshing summer cocktail. This delightful cocktail harmonizes the fruity notes of red wine with a zesty citrus kick, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a lighter and less sugary alternative to sangria. 

Finding the Perfect Wine

To fully appreciate this beverage, you must consider that the wine serves as the foundation for the drink. As a golden rule, choose a wine that you genuinely enjoy on its own, as this will enhance your overall experience.

I recommend starting with your favorite Pinot Noir, with extra points if it is a Spanish wine, and savoring its unique qualities before diving making the drink. Once you have tasted your wine and understand how it pairs with the soda, you can embark on a journey of experimentation with new wine varieties.

For the more adventurous palate, you should explore the intriguing realm of pairing a Tempranillo. While this pairing may not suit everyone’s taste, it can be a satisfying combination for those seeking a more fruity punch. I must admit that I was captivated by how the enticing notes of red berries and cherries in the wine harmonized with the natural sweetness of the orange, enriching the overall flavor profile.

Above all, embrace your curiosity, indulge in the joy of discovery, and let your taste buds be the judge.

Ingredients

Red Wine: It is essential to select a wine that you genuinely enjoy on its own. If you have not yet tasted the wine you plan to use, I recommend taking a sip before incorporating the rest of the ingredients. This allows you to fully appreciate how the flavors of your chosen wine are complemented or potentially hindered when mixed with the soda. As a starting point, consider using Spanish Pinot Noir.

Soda: Jarritos Orange Soda is my favorite as it embodies an authentic orange flavor. However, should Jarritos be unavailable, you can consider using any orange soda or Fanta as a suitable substitute.

Lemon Juice: Adding lemon juice balances and brings out the natural flavors of the soda and wine. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best for this recipe.

Food Pairings

When pairing food with the Orange Tinto de Verano, the goal is to choose dishes that complement its refreshing and fruity characteristics. Here are a few options to enhance your Tinto de Verano experience:

• Carbonara with Pan Seared Scallops
• Avocado Citrus Salad
• Charcuterie board with your favorite meats and cheeses (consider adding some Roasted Spiced Almonds)