Are you a cocktail connoisseur who’s traveling to Europe soon? Summer travel is upon us and that means the annual European vacations are in full swing. If you’re looking for the best summer drinks in Europe, you’ve come to the right place. As a self-proclaimed beverage boss, I’ve tasted drinks from around the world and can confidently recommend these refreshing summer cocktails to anyone. With that said, let’s not waste any more time and jump right in!
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Refresh Your Tastebuds With These European Summer Cocktails
Portugal: Porto Tónico
The Porto Tónico is one of Portugal’s favorite drinks that captures the essence of the country’s rich wine culture. This refreshing concoction combines the unique flavors of Port wine with the bubbles of tonic water.
The drink is typically garnished with a slice of citrus fruit, such as lemon or orange, adding a zesty touch to the overall experience. In addition, the Porto Tónico offers a delightful balance of sweet and bitter notes, creating a sophisticated blend. Served over ice, this cocktail is a true testament to Portugal’s love affair with fine wines.
Belgium: Framboise Lambic Ale Spritzer
The Framboise Lambic Ale spritzer is a fizzy concoction that showcases the Belgium’s expertise in brewing and fruit flavors. This unique cocktail features the distinctive Framboise Lambic Ale, a traditional Belgian beer infused with raspberries.
Most importantly, adding a spritz of sparkling water to the ale creates a blend of sweet and sour notes, sending your tastebuds on an adventure. Served over ice and garnished with a fresh raspberry, this drink offers a taste of Belgium’s rich brewing heritage and commitment to artisanal craftsmanship.
Spain: Agua de Sevilla
The Agua de Sevilla originated in Seville, Spain; however, it’s now popular across the country and with visitors from around the world. This cocktail combines the vibrant flavors of the region, blending together equal parts of orange juice, pineapple juice, and cream, along with a dash of Cointreau and a splash of anise-flavored liquor like Pernod.
The result is a luscious and creamy concoction reminiscent of a tropical paradise. Served over ice and garnished with a slice of orange, the Agua de Sevilla offers a refreshing experience that captures the essence of Spain’s vibrant culture.
England: Pornstar Martini
The Pornstar Martini is a cocktail that has steadily gained popularity in England. Firstly, this modern classic is a fusion of sweet, tangy, and tropical flavors. It features a combination of vanilla-infused vodka, passion fruit purée, and a touch of fresh lime juice. Secondly, it’s typically served with a shot of chilled Prosecco on the side, which adds a bubbly twist.
The Pornstar Martini is known for its vibrant color and the garnish of a halved passion fruit floating on top. As a result, this tantalizing cocktail has become a go-to choice for those seeking a fun and fruity drink with a touch of elegance.
Germany: Swimming Pool
When I say summer drinks in Europe, I really mean it. And nothing says summer more than sitting poolside with a drink in your hand. So, why not simply combine them? The Swimming Pool cocktail looks just like it sounds and it’s made a splash in Germany’s beverage scene.
This tropical mix captures the essence of a refreshing dip in a crystal-clear pool. It combines white rum, blue curaçao, coconut cream, pineapple juice, and just a hint of lime juice. As a result, the cocktail turns a vibrant turquoise color that evokes images of beachside destinations. In short, this cocktail offers a taste of the tropics in the heart of Germany, providing a cool and invigorating escape.
France: Boulevardier
The Boulevardier cocktail is a classic libation that traces its roots back to Paris, France in the early 20th century. Because this sophisticated drink shares a similar recipe to the Negroni but swaps gin for whiskey, the result is a rich and complex flavor profile.
For example, combining bourbon or rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Campari, the Boulevardier offers a balance of sweetness, bitterness, and depth. The Boulevardier is served over ice and garnished with an orange peel, and subsequently remains a favorite among cocktail connoisseurs.
Italy: Hugo Spritz
This ain’t your typical Aperol Spritz! The Hugo Spritz originated in Italy and has quickly become a beloved drink across the globe. This refreshing aperitivo captures the essence of summer with its light and vibrant flavors. It kind of looks like a mojito but don’t be fooled.
It combines the sweetness of elderflower syrup with the crispness of Prosecco, a splash of soda water, and a garnish of fresh mint and lime. The result is a beverage that perfectly balances floral, citrus, and effervescence. Served over ice, this cocktail is a true crowd-pleaser.
Portugal: Poncha
The Poncha is a traditional and beloved drink hailing from the beautiful island of Madeira in Portugal. This invigorating concoction combines fresh lemon juice, sugar, and Aguardente de Cana, a local sugar cane spirit, in a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors.
In addition, the Poncha includes other fruit juices such as passion fruit or orange, enhancing its tropical essence. Served over ice and sometimes garnished with a slice of lemon, this vibrant cocktail offers a taste of Madeira’s rich cultural heritage and is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike, providing a refreshing and revitalizing experience.
England: Shandy
Of all the summer drinks in Europe, the most quintessential is the Shandy. This English creation offers a refreshing twist on a traditional pint of beer. This popular beverage combines equal parts of lager or ale with lemonade, creating a light and refreshing concoction.
The Shandy is ideal for warm summer days and provides tasty alternative for those who prefer a milder alcoholic beverage. It strikes a perfect balance between the bitterness of the beer and the sweetness of the lemonade, resulting in a crisp and revitalizing taste. The Shandy is a classic choice for social gatherings and pub outings, embodying the relaxed and convivial spirit of England’s drinking culture.
Croatia: Gemišt
The Gemišt is a popular and refreshing drink that originates from Croatia. If you like white wine and sparkling water, this is the perfect cocktail for warm summer days. The name “Gemišt” comes from the Croatian word for a half-liter glass used to serve the drink.
Moreover, the Gemišt showcases the country’s love for wine and its appreciation for a light, easy-drinking option. It has become a beloved choice among locals and visitors, offering a taste of Croatia’s drink culture.
Spain: Agua de Valencia
When we’re talking summer drinks in Europe, it has to be light. And nothing is lighter than the Agua de Valencia. This a beloved cocktail hails from the vibrant city of Valencia, obviously. This delightful cocktail embodies the essence of the region’s abundant citrus fruits.
It features a combination of fresh orange juice, vodka, gin, and a splash of sweet sparkling Cava. This results in a vibrant and effervescent drink with a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness. Above all, it has become a symbol of celebration and a must-try experience for visitors to Valencia, offering a taste of the city’s zestful and convivial spirit.
France: French 75
The French 75 is a classic cocktail that combines gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and a splash of sparkling wine. This results in a crisp drink with a perfect balance of citrus and herbal notes.
Named after the French 75mm field gun used during World War I, this cocktail packs a punch, much like its namesake. Served in a flute or a coupé glass, the French 75 embodies the essence of French mixology, offering a refined and celebratory drinking experience.
Summer Drinks in Europe? Yes, please!
I don’t know about you, but when I go back to Europe, I’m drinking one – or all – of these bad boys. The next time you stay in one of the countries I mentioned above, make yourself a list and navigate to a local bar or pub. Also, make sure to follow me to discover more tasty libations in off-beat locations around the world. Happy drinking!
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