What Do You Drink With Tapas in Barcelona?
Barcelona is known for its vibrant food scene, and tapas are a must-try when visiting this beautiful city. These small plates of deliciousness are perfect for sharing and experiencing a variety of flavors.
But what should you drink with your tapas to enhance the experience? Let’s explore some traditional and popular choices that will complement your meal perfectly.
1. Vermouth
Vermouth is an iconic drink in Barcelona, making it an excellent choice to accompany your tapas. This fortified wine is often served on tap, and you can find vermouth bars scattered throughout the city.
It has a sweet and herbal flavor profile that pairs beautifully with savory tapas like patatas bravas or anchovies. Don’t forget to garnish your vermouth with a twist of orange or lemon peel for an extra burst of flavor.
2. Cava
Cava is Spain’s answer to champagne, and it’s a fantastic choice for celebrating while enjoying tapas. This sparkling wine adds a touch of elegance to any meal and pairs well with almost all types of tapas.
Whether you’re indulging in seafood dishes like grilled prawns or enjoying some jamón ibérico, cava’s crispness and effervescence will cleanse your palate between bites.
3. Spanish Craft Beers
If you’re more of a beer lover, Barcelona has you covered too! The city boasts a growing craft beer scene with breweries offering unique and flavorful options. From hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, there’s something for everyone.
Next time you’re enjoying tapas, consider pairing them with a locally brewed beer. The bitterness and carbonation will contrast well with rich and fatty tapas like patatas bravas or croquettes.
4. Tinto de Verano
Tinto de Verano, meaning “red wine of summer,” is a refreshing and lighter alternative to sangria. It’s made by combining red wine with lemon soda or carbonated water, resulting in a fruity and slightly sweet beverage.
This drink is perfect for hot summer days when you’re enjoying tapas on a sunny terrace. Pair it with grilled vegetables or light seafood dishes for a delightful combination.
5. Sidra
Sidra, or Spanish cider, is another popular choice to accompany tapas in Barcelona. This fermented apple cider has a distinct tartness and natural effervescence that pairs well with strong flavors like blue cheese or cured meats.
When pouring sidra, it’s customary to hold the bottle high above your head to allow the cider to aerate and create bubbles before reaching your glass.
In Conclusion
No matter what your taste preferences are, Barcelona offers a wide range of drinks to enjoy alongside your tapas feast. From traditional options like vermouth and cava to craft beers and refreshing tinto de verano, there’s something for everyone.
So next time you find yourself in Barcelona indulging in tapas, don’t forget to raise your glass and toast to the culinary delights this city has to offer!